As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Alexandria, Virginia is rich in history. With dozens of museums and historical landmarks to see, it is an educational treasure chest of our nation’s history in this beautiful town. Bed bugs have been in Alexandria almost as long as it has existed. Early settlers were frustrated by these blood sucking annoyances just like we are, but back then they didn’t know how to fight them and most just gave up and lived with them. You shouldn’t have to do that. It is possible to get rid of bed bugs once and for all with the help the professional technicians at Green Pest Services.

How do you know if you have bed bugs?

The first clue is your skin. If you wake up with itchy welts on your skin and notice blood on your sheets, this is your number one sign. The actual bite of a bed bug is painless, but their saliva creates an itchy reaction. This reaction is often delayed and this is why it is possible to sleep through the night as they basically eat you alive. Waking up to terrible welts and bites from head to toe is beyond terrifying. Bed bugs are attracted by the CO2 you exhale as you sleep, thus the reason you only get bit while in slumber.

Where to find them

The name bed bugs is a misnomer since they can live just about anywhere in your home. the majority live near the bed, but they can also be found in nightstands, behind picture frames, in sofas, and along the floorboards. They are experts at concealment which is why many homeowners are unaware of an infestation until it is really bad. No two bed bug bites look the same so it can be difficult to figure out what is causing the itch. People often try various itch creams and lotions, trying to get rid of mysterious rashes while unaware of what is actually causing it.

How to prevent and get rid of them

With international travel rising significantly in the 1990’s, there was a spike in the rise of bed bugs and this number has been growing ever since. You can prevent them however, by inspecting hotel rooms you stay in very carefully with a flashlight. Looking under mattresses, in nightstands and near picture frames can help you spot these stubborn insects before they crawl into your suitcase and hitch a ride home with you. Keeping your suitcase up off the floor on luggage racks or even in the bathtub will keep them from coming home with you since they can’t climb the slick surfaces of a metal rack or tub. Avoid bringing your pillow to hotels and always be vigilant about your search before sleep. You never know who stayed in that room last.  

Bed bugs are nearly impossible to get rid of on your own and will definitely need a trained professional to remove completely from your home. There is no need to throw away all your belongings and burn your house down. The techniques for bed bug control in Alexandria have come a long way since the Colonial days. You no longer have to relinquish your bedroom to these invaders. Green Pest Services is experienced at bed bug removal and uses the most advanced, guaranteed methods so you can sleep peacefully again. Call us today, we are happy help you!