Bed bugs are among one of the most dreaded parasites known to Americans. People often feel their skin crawl and begin to itch simply at the mention of the insects and sprawl into a full-blown panic when they discover that they have a bed bug infestation, and are notoriously difficult to eliminate.

Bed bugs are small parasitic insects that prefer human blood but have also been known to latch onto animals. The insects prefer to dwell in small, dark spaces and thrive in moderate temperatures. Bed bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide, and napping humans attract their presence to mattresses and bedding materials.

Heat treatment, frequent vacuuming, and pesticides are the most common pest control techniques used to eliminate bed bugs. Families in the Mesa region often turn to pest control companies to initially exterminate the insects. A prevention follow-up plan is essential to prevent future infestations.

Heat treatment is one of the most common ways to eliminate bed bugs. This process is done by heating the area to 122 degrees for a minimum of four hours. The extreme temperatures will help to kill the current generation and any eggs that might be present. It is also a good idea to toss all fabric items such as bedding materials, clothing, and linens into the dryer. Pesticides may also be deployed as part of the heat treatment process or performed separately. Vacuuming the floors, clothed furniture, and mattresses can help capture any remaining bed bugs and eliminate their eggs and carcasses.

The final step that should be taken in the elimination process is also a preventative measure, especially if the property is not a single-dwelling unit. Bed bugs will crawl through cracks in the floors and spaces such as air ducts. It is essential to seal cracks and crevices to prevent the insects from returning to the dwelling.