As a hotel manager in St. Louis, you’ve likely heard your fair share of bed bug horror stories. These tiny pests are a constant concern for the hospitality industry, causing stress and frustration for both guests and staff. However, not everything you hear about bed bugs is true.ย
At Bug Out, our experienced bed bug control experts are here to help you separate fact from fiction and keep bed bugs out of your property with this guide.
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Bed Bugs Only Infest Beds and Bedding
False. Although bed bug infestations often start in or near beds, these pests can spread to various other locations. Upholstered furniture, dressers, nightstands, carpets, and even picture frames can harbor bed bugs. They hide in cracks, crevices, and folds in these areas.
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Bed Bugs Only Infest Dirty Rooms
One of the most persistent myths about bed bugs is that they only infest dirty or poorly maintained rooms. In reality, bed bugs are attracted to warmth, blood, and carbon dioxide, not dirt or grime. While clutter can provide more hiding spots for these pests, even the cleanest rooms can fall victim to a bed bug infestation.
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Bed Bugs Are Primarily Nocturnal
It’s true that bed bugs are most active at night, which is why they can be so difficult to spot. However, these adaptable pests can adjust their feeding schedule to match their hosts’ sleeping patterns. While less common, daytime bites can still occur, so it’s important to remain vigilant around the clock.
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Bed Bug Bites Cause Allergic Reactions
True (sometimes). While bed bugs aren’t known to transmit diseases, their bites can trigger allergic reactions in some individuals. Depending on the severity of the allergy, medical attention may be necessary. It’s crucial to address bed bug infestations promptly to minimize the risk of bites and potential allergic reactions.
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Bed Bugs Spread Easily
True. Bed bugs are skilled hitchhikers who easily travel from one location to another on personal belongings such as luggage, furniture, and clothing. This makes it easy for bed bugs to spread rapidly, infesting multiple homes, offices, and public spaces in a short time.
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Only the Hotel Industry Needs to Worry About Bed Bugs
False. While hotels are indeed vulnerable to bed bug infestations due to high guest turnover, these pests can infest various other places. Homes, apartments, schools, healthcare facilities, movie theaters, and even vehicles can fall victim to bed bug infestations. Vigilance is key in preventing bed bug problems, regardless of the location.
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Bed Bugs Are Easy to Identify
Not always. A 2017 survey by the University of Kentucky found that most American travelers cannot accurately identify these pests.ย
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown, oval-shaped insects about the size of an apple seed. They do not have wings, but can move quickly and hide in tiny cracks and crevices.
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Bed Bugs Have Made a Resurgence in Recent Years
True. While bed bugs were once thought to be largely eradicated, these pests have made a significant comeback since the late 1990s. Increased international travel and changes in pest control practices have contributed to the resurgence of bed bug infestations in St. Louis.
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DIY Methods Are Effective in Eliminating Bed Bugs
Not always. Attempting to control bed bugs without professional help often proves ineffective. A single product or treatment is rarely enough to eliminate an infestation. Effective bed bug control requires a multi-faceted approach and close monitoring.
Trust Bug Out to Get Rid of Infestations
Don’t let bed bugs ruin your business’ reputation. At Bug Out, our skilled exterminators have the expertise to tackle bed bug infestations in both residential and commercial properties across St. Louis.
We understand the unique challenges that hotels face when dealing with bed bugs, and we work diligently to eliminate infestations with minimal disruption to your operations.
Our comprehensive bed bug control services include:
- Thorough inspections to identify the extent of the infestation
- Customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs
- Discreet and efficient extermination using state-of-the-art methods
- Preventative measures to reduce the risk of future infestations
- Education and training for your staff to help detect and prevent bed bug problems
Get started today by reaching out to our team for a personalized service quote.
