Bed bug chemicals: how safe and how often?

Question: Hi. I am from the Ithaca area, and I just found out that I have a bed bug problem. Again. Last year, I got an exterminator to come to the house I was living in, and they treated twice. I was moving out two weeks later, so I am guessing that the eggs traveled with me to my new place and hatched later. What types of chemicals does your company use to help control bed bugs? There is a cat and also a woman who is pregnant who lives downstairs that I am concerned about the interaction with these pesticides.

How effective is the treatment? How many treatments are typically used? What is the average price of a three-bedroom home? Have you ever had to deal with bed bugs in this area?

Answer: The local branch office can tell you what insecticides are used. The number of treatments needed to get control is (national average) 3 to 4 treatments. The first step to treating the problem yourself is taking your bed apart. The frame should be completely deconstructed to reach all cracks and crevices. For any unreachable areas, aerosols are useful. Another effective method of treating for bed bugs is a hair dryer. Turned on high, the heat will chase bed bugs from their hiding places while killing some. You’ll also want to treat the box spring and mattress. Professional treatments include insecticides and steam.

Upon cleaning the frame and box spring, target the specific places bed bugs like to hide, like cracks in the frame and crevices and seams in the box spring and mattress. Be sure to thoroughly inspect and spray all furniture in the room, including walls and baseboards. Getting into cracks and behind the baseboards is essential. It may not seem necessary to do such a thorough job on the entire room, but bed bugs will travel long distances for a blood meal. Also, be aware that these pests can survive for long periods without nourishment (especially the adults), so bedding not used for a while, a suitcase or any used furniture brought into the house should be inspected thoroughly.

When it comes to bed bug infestations, the best way to correct the problem is with the help of a highly trained professional. Call Orkin today for an estimate and to schedule a comprehensive inspection of your home. Orkin will be able to come up with a correct customized treatment plan for you once the inspection is complete.

Related Questions

Orkin used the information above to also answer the following questions submitted by Orkin.com users:

Question: Do the chemicals you use to kill bed bugs pose any health risks to people with allergies or medical conditions such as seizures?