2 Things To Know About Bed Bugs & Winter Time

Many people wrongly assume that they cannot get bed bugs during the winter time. However, this is not true. Here are two things that you need to know about how bed bugs respond to winter and what you can do to fight against bed bugs.

#1 Bed Bugs Thrive Indoors During The Winter

It is true that bed bugs have a hard time surviving outdoors during the winter time. This is because bed bugs enjoy when it is nice and warm; when the outside temperatures get too low, any bed bug that is stuck outside may be killed and their eggs will not survive freezing temperatures.

However, most modern homes are kept at a nice and cozy temperature during the winter and do not get nearly as cold as it does outside. This allows bed bugs to continue to thrive inside homes even when the temperatures outside get really cold. Most homes are still warm enough for bed bugs to move around and continue to lay eggs. Even if you think your house is a little on the chilly side, it is probably still warm enough for bed bugs, especially since bed bugs like to seek out the warmest areas of your home, such as inside of your bed, chairs and couches --  places that are sure to be nice and cozy even if you turn down the thermostat.

#2 Thorough Cleaning Is The Best Way To Fight Bed Bugs

The best way to ensure that bed bugs do not get into your home is by keeping your home as clean as possible so that there are not conditions present for bed bugs to thrive. During the winter, make sure that you wash all the bedding in your house every week. This will reduce the number of dust mites in your bedding and reduce the food available to potential bed bugs. When you take your bedding off your bed, vacuum down your mattress as well. This will help further remove dust mites from your bed. At least once a season, use a steamer on your bed to kill any potential insects or bacteria lurking around it.

For other soft surfaces in your home, such as your couch or your chair, vacuum them every week as well to keep them clean. Wipe down all hard surfaces in your home with a wet rag each week as well. Doing this will help reduce the chances that your home will be appealing to bed bugs this winter.

Furthermore, if you have a humidifier, try to lower the humidity levels in your home and turn down your thermostat when you leave for the day. Making your home cooler and drier will make it a less appealing environment for bed bugs this winter. 

For assistance with bed bugs, contact a pest control company like Ottowa Pest Removal.