Bed bugs are notorious hitchhikers that can turn your peaceful haven into a nightmare. These tiny, blood-sucking pests have been a source of frustration for homeowners, hoteliers, and renters alike. And if you find yourself dealing with a severe infestation, it is advisable to seek professional help from residential, industrial, or commercial pest control services. In the meantime, it is essential to delve into their origins and understand their nesting habits to combat bed bug infestations effectively.

In this article, we shed light on where bed bugs come from and where they lay their nests.

Bed bugs and their origins

Bed bugs, scientifically known as Cimex lectularius, are parasitic insects that feed exclusively on the blood of humans and animals. They are wingless, oval-shaped creatures that measure about the size of an apple seed. Although they are not known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, and sleep disturbances

Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not limited to unclean environments. They can be found in various settings – homes, hotels, hospitals, and even public transportation. These pests have a long history and have plagued humans for years. It is believed that these nuisance pests originated in the Middle East, particularly in caves inhabited by bats. Over time, they adapted to feeding on humans’ blood, transitioning from ‘bat bugs’ to ‘bed bugs’. With international travel and trade growth, bed bugs hitched rides on ships, trains, and luggage, spreading to different parts of the world.

As they are excellent hitchhikers and can easily latch onto clothing, luggage, furniture, and other items, be careful to avert bed bugs while travelling.

Preferred nesting sites of bed bugs 

Bed bugs are primarily nocturnal creatures and tend to hide during the day, putting their nests in close proximity to their food source (you and your pets). Here are some common hiding spots where bed bugs may establish their nests:

• Cracks and crevices: Bed bugs can squeeze into tiny cracks and crevices in walls, electrical outlets, and even behind wallpaper.
• Luggage and clothing: When travelling, bed bugs tend to infest suitcases and travel bags by hiding in the seams and folds – waiting for an opportunity to invade a new location.
• Upholstery and curtains: Sofas, armchairs, and curtains with folds, seams, and cushions are enticing hiding spots for bed bugs.
• Headboards and bed frames: The cracks and crevices of headboards and bed frames offer ideal hiding places for bed bugs. They can also inhabit nearby furniture such as nightstands and dressers.
• Mattresses: Bed bugs often reside in the seams and crevices of mattresses. They prefer these locations because they provide easy access to their human hosts.

Detecting and eliminating bed bug infestations 

Detecting bed bugs can be challenging as they are skilled at hiding. However, there are signs that can indicate their presence, such as:

• Small reddish or brownish stains on furniture or bedding caused by bed bug excrement.
• Tiny dark spots or smears on mattresses, walls, and sheets due to crushed bed bugs.
• Itchy bites on your body, often arranged in a cluster or line.

If you suspect an infestation, it is crucial to take immediate action. In this case, the best course of action is to seek professional pest control services for effective eradication.

Conclusion

It’s crucial to deal with bed bug infestations quickly before they become out of control and wreak havoc in your home. Furthermore, it is even more vital to deal with the problem at hand with the assistance of expert pest management because it has been demonstrated that the faeces and eggs this bug leaves behind can cause allergies and asthma in people who are vulnerable to them. Bed bugs are also much harder to eliminate the longer they stay in an environment left to breed.

If you need expert hands to eradicate bed bugs or other pests like termites and rats, PestClinic is the leading pest control company to engage in! As an established pest control business with over 30 years of professional experience, we provide various services to help free your home from unwelcome pests. Whether it be rat or termite control at home in Singapore, contact us today to end your worries!