Bed bug infestations are no laughing matter and you may be wondering how to kill bed bugs. Just remember: you can treat them yourself. One of the biggest keys to killing these marauders is to treat them as soon as possible. Since they reproduce so rapidly, it is imperative that you attack the problem quickly. The products needed to treat are not that expensive so it would be wise to have them on hand, just in case.
Read Labels For the Win!
Make sure you read the label carefully on all products you use to fight the infestation. Some products are not to be used on mattresses or bedding so care is advised. When used as labeled, products sold today will be safe. Following the label every time is important for the do-it-yourselfer.
The first step in treatment is to identify the bugs in question. Usually, the first evidence of an infestation would be black spots the size of a pinhead on bedding. It is only your blood, after all, so do not get too grossed out. Bed bugs are small, dark in color, and they can move surprisingly fast. If you are seeing live bed bugs, generally you have a heavy infestation. When the bed bugs are not feeding, they will usually be hiding. They love to hide in confined places.
Cracks and Crevices Hold Creepy Crawlies
Your treatment should include looking for cracks and crevices within 5-10 feet of the infestations. Take a look in bed frames and in the folds of the mattress. Remove the mesh underneath the box frame. Spray these areas thoroughly. Pull out the dresser drawers and empty clothes in a plastic bag and seal it until you can run them through the dryer on high heat.
Spray chemicals directly at baseboards, around electrical outlets, and behind picture frames. Look for any small cracks and treat thoroughly. Vacuum all carpets and take the vacuum outside right away and empty contents into a plastic bag, seal, and discard. Repeat the process in two weeks. The key to effectively killing bed bugs is to be very thorough. Do not cut corners and do make sure you get started as soon as you suspect a bed bug infestation.