Getting rid of fleas or bed bugs can be tricky since they require different pest control approaches. But first things first, it is essential to know which type of pest you are dealing with. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that fleas can infest every corner of the home while bed bugs typically hide in beds, couches, and wherever else their food source (i.e. you and your pets) spends a lot of time in. Below, we cover a few more specific tips on verifying your pest problem so you can get pest control services to deal with it quickly.
Check your body for bite marks
Both bed bugs and fleas feed on humans to survive, so check your body for signs of bites. Bed bugs typically bite in the torso region – if you notice a cluster around your upper body, you may have bed bugs. In contrast, fleas typically go for the leg, ankle, and foot region. Inspect your bites carefully and see if there is a reddish area at the centre of them. These bites are distinct from bed bugs; fleas do not leave such marks.
Inspect your bedding
Take off the bedding of your mattress and closely inspect the seams on both. Bed bugs resemble brown or red oval-shaped insects that look like seeds, so scan for these forms as well as the red blood stains they may leave behind. Besides your beddings, you can also find bed bugs inside crevices of furniture like nightstands and sofas, inside zippers and tags, and the folds of curtains and drapery.
On the other hand, fleas are tiny, agile insects that are usually darker in colour, such as brown or black. Flea bites tend to be grouped in clusters and can cause intense discomfort and itching. But if you’re still uncertain about the source of the problem, it is advisable to consult with a professional pest control expert who can accurately identify the issue and recommend appropriate treatment methods.
Look for clues in your pets
Besides you and your family members, bed bugs and fleas can also prey on your pets. As you may already know, your furry friends are usually the ones that carry fleas into your home, and they often make their home in your pet’s fur. To check them for fleas, gently brush them with a flea comb starting from the base of their tail so you can see their skin underneath the fur. If you find black specks or insects while doing so, the chances are that you have a flea problem on your hands.
Examine your furniture
Thoroughly look over your upholstered furniture, including your accent pillows and throw blankets. Like your mattress, check around the seams, wrinkles, folds and zippers, and use a magnifying glass if necessary. Remember the distinct identifiers between bed bugs and fleas and see which of the two you find the most signs of to make sure of your pest problem.
Conclusion
If left unchecked, bed bugs and fleas can cause all sorts of problems and health risks for your family and pets. By knowing which pest you’re dealing with (or in the rare case that you have a double infestation), you can be better informed on how to tackle your pest problem or even get in touch with pest control right away should home remedies prove insufficient.
If you need professional help with your flea or bed bug problem, PestClinic is always ready to lend a hand! Equipped with advanced tools and the latest training, our veteran and professional exterminators can handle all types of pests plaguing your home, from rodents and insects to termites and other uncommon pests. Whether it be residential, commercial, or industrial pest control services you require, reach out to us today to get started on making your surroundings safe and pest-free.
