What Truly Attracts Bed Bugs? Unraveling Fact from Fiction 

Bed bugs are a nightmare! These tiny, blood-sucking critters, scientifically known as Cimex lectularius, have been bothering humans for centuries. Despite their size, they can cause us incredible stress and upset, especially when they infest our homes and businesses.

With stress comes the opportunity for myth and fiction to thrive. To tackle them effectively, we must understand what attracts bed bugs. Then we need to arm ourselves with solid prevention and extermination strategies.

Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?

Bed bugs are some of the world's best hitchhikers. Because they are nomadic and willing to make a home anywhere there are people; they don't really "come" from anywhere. Bed bugs enjoy traveling and don't mind whether it's in fancy or regular accommodations. They are equally content hitching a ride in your luggage, on your clothes, or even on furniture.

Bed bugs can pop up anywhere, from the fanciest hotels to public buses. It's often impossible to know where you may have caught them from. A friend's house, a business waiting room, public transportation, or a visiting friend or relative are all ways bed bugs can move into your home.

Bed Bugs: Fact vs. Fiction 

Since bed bugs are so undesirable, there are a lot of rumors about where you can catch them and why you catch them. All these rumors make it hard to know what's true and what's not. So, let's clear the air and explain what's true about these unwanted visitors: 

• Rumor: Bed bugs are attracted to our breath.  TRUE - They are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale, as this tells  them where a living body they can feed on is resting.

• Rumor: Bed bugs are attracted to blood.  FALSE - They feed on blood, but the presence of humans and the carbon dioxide we exhale attract them. They aren't sharks! 

• Rumor: They love our warmth.  TRUE - Our body heat is a warm invitation to them - literally. A warm body means warm blood, and that's what they're after. 

• Rumor: Bed bugs love dirty places.  FALSE - Bed bugs aren't cockroaches. They're happy anywhere as long as there's a human host nearby to feed on. They couldn't care less about cleanliness.

• Rumor: Bed bugs prefer dark colors.  TRUE - Studies have found that they prefer dark colors, especially shades of black or red, likely because they offer camouflage. 

• Rumor: Bed bugs are too small to be seen.  FALSE - Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and can be seen with the naked eye. However, their eggs and young ones are much smaller and tougher to spot.

It's essential to take precautionary measures To prevent bed bugs from hitching a ride home with you. For example, those who travel a lot should put their clothes in plastic bags and wash them when they get home. And businesses that have a lot of traffic, whether it's for short visits or staying the night, should get regular bed bug inspections and treatments.

However, it's crucial to note that these actions do not grant immunity against bed bugs. Equipping yourself with the right tools is your best strategy when dealing with them.

How Do You Get Rid of Bed Bugs? 

If you are hosting a bed bug family, it's time to take action. DIY methods are only effective if you use professional-grade equipment. 
Fortunately, we are here to help. Our professional-grade heat treatment packages are the same tools professionals use with a proven track record of success. Our equipment is built for ease of use and safety so you can become the bed bug professional in your home. When you own your equipment, you can treat your home whenever needed and never fear bed bugs again. 

Our heat treatment packages are an excellent choice for homeowners and businesses, allowing you to treat your home or premises whenever necessary. These environmentally friendly, efficient treatments wipe out bed bugs at all life stages.

To get a heat treatment package that will allow you to protect your home or business, click here.