Were you surprised by the plague of bed bugs that affected France a few weeks ago? It quickly spread to cities in the north of Spain and it is likely that it will soon reach other regions. In this text we want to show you all the details about these insects and how to combat them effectively.
Characteristics of bed bugs
They are small, reddish-brown parasites that lack wings. They are about the size of a pear seed and during the day they usually hide in:
- Cracks on the walls, on the ceiling or on the façade.
- The head from the bed.
- The structure of the bed (the mattress, the box spring, etc.).
- Nearby objects to the bed as the nightstand.
The reason they choose the bedroom as their favorite habitat is because every night they come out of their hiding place to feed on the blood of those who are sleeping peacefully.
What does a bed bug bite look like?
Could be similar to that of a mosquito, as it produces inflammation progressive in the affected area. Most often, the consequences of the bite will subside within a maximum of 14 days without the need for treatment.
Sometimes, more serious allergic reactions may occur. These effects vary depending on the type of insect involved. The bites of bedbugs that may spread throughout Spain will cause hives and redness.
When should you start to worry?
First of all, you need to know how to distinguish a bed bug from a longicorn . The latter is also known as the oriental plantain bug, but it only acts in summer. It is also a wood-eating insect and will not bite you.
Most often, bed bugs appear in groups and in increasing numbers, if you do not implement any of the remedies we provide you now. Do so as soon as you detect a bed bug, as this will prevent the spread of the infestation.
Tips to eliminate bed bugs from your home
Imagine that you have seen such annoying visitors in your bedroom and you don't know what to do. We advise you not to lose your cool and take note of these tips. They will help you reduce their presence.
Check for possible nests
Start by monitoring your bedroom for any trace of red color . Check if there are any open seams in the mattress or if the upholstery of the chairs is correct. Don't forget to look in the cracks you find in the wallpaper, if you have it on the wall. Don't think you'll see these parasites every day, since they can go up to 10 days without eating.
Combine vinegar and baking soda
When you locate where they are hiding, mix in a spray bottle a tablespoon of vinegar with another of bicarbonate of soda . Shake well and spray the mixture on the most sensitive areas. The smell will scare away those that might reach it and the bicarbonate will end up killing them progressively.
Turmeric powder
It is very easy to spread it on a mattress or sofa. You just have to add a little and brush the area. This spice leaves without oxygen the parasites will immediately come out of their hiding place. You will be surprised to see that none of them remain in the affected area.
Sachets with aromatic plants and spices
Plants such as laurel, mint or rosemary generate a very powerful fragrance It scares away insects in general. You can cut up some leaves and add cloves to a small breathable cloth bag or a net like those used for fruit and vegetables. Distribute each bag under the bed, behind the furniture and in the areas around the sofa. You will obtain a pleasant fragrance, while enjoying its effectiveness.
Raise your blinds
If the affected area receives the direct sunlight, You will see the guests leaving their shelter. Once you have located the nest, you can take the necessary measures to ensure that the situation does not happen again in the near future.
Cover the cracks
It's as easy as acquiring specific white putty in any establishment. Seal each crack well using a spatula. If necessary, apply a second coat of putty to make sure you have achieved your goal.
Extreme cleanliness
Parasites are always looking for both a human to live off of their blood and a suitable space to breed. Their preferences are areas such as the bedroom or the kitchen, given the impossibility of making up the bed or removing the appliances on a daily basis and removing the accumulated dirt. You do not need to do it so often, but at least once a week. Use cleaning products that complement the one you use to mop the floor. For example, ammonia or bleach.
Clean with a handheld steam cleaner
We recommend you the Mellerware Fush steam cleaner , thanks to its 1050 watts of power, disinfects and cleans with enormous efficiency. With three and a half bars of pressure, you can get rid of dirt with minimal effort. In less than three minutes you will have a flow rate of 30 grams per minute for 10 minutes. Its 380 ml tank allows you to clean for longer without having to refill it. The three-meter cable and its safety cap complete the advantages of such an interesting device.
Steam has a average temperature of 50º C and you can use it on the entire surface affected by the pest. Use the handheld steam cleaner once a week to ensure you have eliminated adult insects and their larvae. Thanks to the included tools, such as the round brush and nozzles, you will also have access to more difficult-to-clean areas such as the drum of each blind, the windows, the mattresses and the sofa.
In short, the bed bugs The days are numbered if you put into practice the tips we have just given you. Don't forget to protect yourself from a pest that you can easily control if you take the appropriate measures from the first day. Your home will become a cleaner and healthier space while you get rid of their annoying bite.
