Sleepless nights. Itchy welts. The constant feeling of something crawling on you. If this sounds familiar, you may have unwelcome bedbug guests in your Visalia home. Getting rid of bedbugs requires diligence and patience. The question is, how long does it take to get rid of bedbugs?
Many factors determine the timeline, like the extent of the infestation and the treatment methods used. Professional pest control can speed up the process, but DIY treatments may take longer.
The good news? No matter the infestation, you can get rid of bedbugs in Visalia, CA, with consistent, thorough treatment. Read on to learn what to expect so you can rest easy again.
Bedbug infestations can range from minor to major, with varying difficulty levels for eradication. Here’s how to tell the difference:
A minor infestation is usually confined to one area. You’ll often find them in a bed or a piece of furniture. Signs include:
You might be able to use DIY methods to take care of a minor infestation, if you are consistent and thorough.
A widespread infestation may affect several rooms or even the whole house. Signs of a major infestation include:
Inspect mattresses for tiny dark blood stains from crushed bedbugs or light brown molted skins after they shed. Also, check crevices and seams in bed frames and headboards, behind wall outlets, and underneath loose wallpaper.
Now that we’ve identified the severity of a bedbug infestation, it’s time to explore some potential solutions. For minor infestations, do-it-yourself methods can sometimes be a practical first step.
Bedbugs and their eggs cannot withstand temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash infested clothes and bedding on a high heat setting. Then dry them in the dryer for at least 30 minutes to kill bedbugs.
This method is immediate but does not prevent future infestations.
Frigid temperatures can also kill bedbugs. Placing infested items in a freezer set at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or lower for at least four days can eliminate these pests. This method is slow but effective.
You can use over-the-counter insecticides labeled for bedbugs to treat infested areas. Follow the instructions on the label and avoid spraying where children or pets might come into contact with the insecticide. The effectiveness of this method depends on the product used and can take from a few hours to a few weeks.
Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from fossilized algae. It destroys bedbugs by absorbing the oils in their exoskeleton. To use it, lightly dust it along baseboards, wall voids, mattress seams, and other areas. Reapply weekly, as it loses effectiveness when wet.
Take care not to over-apply pesticide sprays or use them excessively. It can contaminate your home and be harmful to pets or children. Follow all label directions carefully.
Remember, while DIY methods can be effective for minor infestations, professional pest control services should be sought for more severe cases to ensure complete eradication and prevent future infestations.
Bedbugs are a nightmare for homeowners. They’re small and hardy, and multiply fast, making them challenging to get rid of. Pest control experts often describe the process as a battle requiring a strategic approach and an understanding of the enemy.
The first step in extermination involves a thorough inspection to identify the severity of the infestation. Pest control service professionals offering free consultations and estimates can help pinpoint hotspots.
The length of treatment depends on the method used. Chemical treatments can take 2-3 weeks, while heat treatments can be completed in a day. However, severe infestations may need multiple treatments over several months.
After treatment, pest control services will check your home to ensure no bedbugs remain. This period allows you to make preventative maintenance measures.
Regular inspections help prevent future infestations. Early detection minimizes the impact of these pests on your life.
Other factors affecting treatment duration are follow-up inspections and prep work. Professionals will check for surviving bugs and retreat if needed. They’ll also have you launder fabrics, vacuum, and declutter before treating.
With regular professional treatments, most homes are bedbug-free again in 4-6 weeks. But, depending on the situation, severe infestations may take eight weeks or longer.
Kicking bedbugs to the curb is an accomplishment, but many homeowners worry about the pests reappearing. Luckily, there are steps you can take to avoid re-infestation:
Ongoing, quarterly treatments by a pest management professional will stop bedbugs before they get established again. This maintenance helps protect your home long-term.
So, how long does it take to get rid of bedbugs? Our expert exterminators are ready to help Visalia homeowners like you win the bedbug battle once and for all. Take advantage of our free estimates to assess the severity of your infestation.
We’ll design a treatment plan to send those bedbugs packing. With cutting-edge techniques, rigorous follow-up, and preventative services, we do the job while keeping your family safe.
The sooner you call, the sooner you can sleep without itchy bites Don’t live with bedbugs – call Pest Control Now in Visalia, CA today to take back your home!
