Bed bugs are, without a shadow of a doubt, the absolute grossest thing you could find crawling in your bed when you need a good night’s sleep. A notable sign that you’ve got an infestation brewing is finding bed bug shells strewn about your living space. If you’re noticing this prime evidence of bed bug molting, it’s time to bring out the big guns and call a professional for help.
In this article, we’ll dive into identifying bed bug infestations, identifying their shells, and how you can remove and fortify your home or business against them. Remember, if you’re dealing with an itchy bed bug problem in your Bay Area home or business, reach out to Banner Pest Services for professional help as soon as you can!
What are Bed Bug Shells?
Bed bug shells are the discarded exoskeletons of bed bugs. As bed bugs grow and mature, they shed their outer skin in a process called molting. The shells that are left behind resemble the shape and size of adult bed bugs but are translucent and lighter in color. These shells are a result of the bed bug’s natural growth cycle and indicate the presence of bed bugs in your environment.
How to Identify Bed Bug Shells
Identifying bed bug shells can be a crucial step in detecting a bed bug infestation. These shells are typically found in areas where bed bugs hide, such as mattress seams, cracks in furniture, and behind baseboards. To identify bed bug shells, look for small, translucent, and oval-shaped casings that are about the size of an apple seed. They may also have a slight brown or reddish tint, depending on how recently the bed bug molted. If you find these shells in your home, it is a clear indication that bed bugs are present and immediate action is required.
Signs of Bed Bug Infestation
Apart from bed bug shells, there are other signs that can help you confirm a bed bug infestation. These include:
- Bite marks: Bed bugs feed on human blood, leaving behind itchy red bite marks on your skin. These bites are often arranged in a linear or clustered pattern.
- Blood stains: If you notice small blood stains on your bedding or furniture, it could be a result of bed bugs being accidentally crushed while feeding.
- Dark spots: Bed bugs leave behind dark spots of excrement on your mattress, bedding, or furniture. These spots are usually black or dark brown and can be found in clusters or trails.
- Musty odor: A strong, musty odor in your bedroom or other areas of your home could indicate a large infestation of bed bugs.
If you notice any of these signs along with the presence of bed bug shells, it is crucial to take immediate action to prevent the infestation from spreading.
Preventing Bed Bug Infestation
Preventing a bed bug infestation is always better than dealing with one. Here are some preventive measures you can take to minimize the risk of bed bugs entering your home:
- Inspect second-hand furniture: Be very, very careful when picking up used upholstered furniture! It’s quite often that people will drop infested couches, chairs, and mattresses on the curb because they’re infested. Pay close attention to crevices, seams, and other hiding spots when buying or scavenging used soft furniture, and ask the previous owner if the piece has a history with bed bugs if you can.
- Encase mattresses and box springs: Use bed bug-proof encasements and wraps to cover your mattresses and box springs. These wraps create a barrier that prevents bed bugs from getting too comfy in your bed. Mark your territory!
- Reduce clutter: Bed bugs love hiding in cluttered areas. Clear out any unnecessary clutter, especially in bedrooms, to minimize their hiding spots.
- Keep a clean and tidy home: Regularly vacuum carpets, mattresses, upholstery, and rugs. Remove opportunities for bed bugs infesting your home!
How to Get Rid of Bed Bug Shells
If you’ve already found bed bug shells in your home, take immediate action to fight back against the bed bug menace. There are various treatment options available, ranging from do-it-yourself methods to professional bed bug removal services. However, DIY can be a health risk when it comes to bed bugs, as they are incredibly intrusive to healthy living. DIY at your own risk!
DIY Methods for Removing Bed Bugs
If the infestation is mild and limited to a small area, you may be able to get rid of bed bugs using DIY methods. Here are a few steps you can take:
- Wash and dry infested items: Wash infested bedding, clothing, and other washable items in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any bed bugs or eggs present.
- Vacuum thoroughly: Vacuum your entire home, paying close attention to cracks, crevices, and other hiding spots. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister in a sealed plastic bag outside your home.
- Use steam: Bed bugs cannot survive extreme heat. Use a steamer to treat mattresses, furniture, and other infested areas. The high temperatures will kill both bed bugs and their eggs.
- Seal cracks and crevices: Use caulk or sealant to fill in any cracks or crevices in walls, baseboards, and furniture where bed bugs may be hiding.
Conclusion
Bed bug shells are a clear indication of a bed bug infestation in your home. By knowing how to identify these shells, along with other signs of a bed bug problem, you can swiftly prevent the infestation from spreading.
Banner Pest Services is here to help you knock out these biting creeps. Reach out today for your free bed bug control quote, and start living bite-free, today!
