THE IMPORTANCE OF A QUALITY INSPECTION

One of the most time consuming yet most important tasks is a thorough inspection which aims to locate where the bed bugs are hiding and also to determine the degree or type of infestation to be eliminated. The results of a thorough inspection will often determine the most effective treatment protocol. Performing self-inspections to detect infestations are important, but can be difficult for someone who has not yet been shown where bed bugs are likely to hide. An experienced exterminator can help narrow down exactly where to look and may use a wide array of tools and experience to assist with this task.

Bed bugs are very skilled at hiding close enough to their food source so they won’t have to travel a long distance for their next meal.  When looking for bed bugs there are a few things to consider.  The prevailing thought is that these things are capable of hiding just about anywhere, however they are somewhat predictable, especially when undisturbed.  Some of the most common places to look for bedbug evidence is within the cracks or crevices in the bedroom, on or around your bed.  Check along all seams, lines, tufts or folds of the mattress, box spring and bed frame.  If there is a headboard or footboard then it is important to inspect these cracks and crevices.  If there is no bed, then instead search the bed area and the nearby cracks and crevices provided by the baseboard or window trim, or a stationary object which is close to the sleeping area.  The furniture in the living room should be checked for evidence of bed bug activity often, paying special attention to the furniture most frequently used by visitors or a member of the family. It is helpful to be mindful about how the home is used and where the people spend their time within it.

Bed bugs are also known to seek harborage along cracks and crevices provided where the carpeting meets the floor, behind pictures or wall hangings, or even behind some loose wallpaper. It is not uncommon to find evidence of bed bugs with electrical outlets which is  a common way for bed bugs to move from one room to another.  You may even find bed bugs along the wall and ceiling, which suggests the infestation may be more complicated than what meets the eye. None of these details should be overlooked when trying to determine the presence or absence of bed bugs.