Why Fall Brings Bed Bugs
While most pests and bugs that stay active during the warmer weather disappear or go into hibernation as the temperature dips, indoor pests like bed bugs thrive during these times due to the cozy home environment.
Several families experience bed bug infestations during fall. Although bed bugs are active and pose a threat throughout the year, they become a frequent problem in fall months, which sees a significant rise in their infestation. While most pests and bugs that stay active during the warmer weather disappear or go into hibernation as the temperature dips, indoor pests like bed bugs thrive during these times due to the cozy home environment.
Bed bugs are small, oval-shaped, wingless insects that feed on human blood. They are hard to get rid of after they enter homes. Bed bugs do not fly or jump but can crawl or hitch a ride in purses, backpacks, clothes, grocery boxes, or luggage.
Why do bed bugs become a problem in the fall?
Bed bugs are indoor pests and seldom found outside. So, the outdoor climate does not usually have a role to play in bed bugs becoming an issue in fall. Instead, the activities we undertake during summer and fall are the primary reason behind increased bed bug activity. Here are a few reasons bed bugs seem more active during fall:
Hitchhiking
As schools open in early fall, bed bugs can hitch a ride on school bags, pocketbooks, backpacks, duffle bags, and clothes. Bed bugs move around a lot, and kids can bring them home from school.
Clutter
Bed bugs love clutter. Kids’ rooms tend to be messy and cluttered, making it easier for bed bugs to thrive.
Dirty laundry
Kids have the habit of leaving dirty clothes or backpacks on the floor while at a friend’s place or daycare or having a sleepover. Bed bugs can hide in the clothes, backpacks, or other things kids leave on the floor and can travel places.
Vacations
During spring and summer, most people travel and go on vacations, shopping, and enjoy get-togethers with friends or family. Each time people go out, they risk bringing a bed bug home in their suitcase, clothes, or shopping bags. Bed bugs seek warmth and shelter for the colder months, and people moving around present them with a perfect opportunity to hitch a ride and move indoors. If you are out shopping for second-hand furniture or bedding, stay careful as they are most likely to have bed bugs. Once bed bugs enter a home, they multiply quickly, and the infestation becomes more evident during fall.
Tips to prevent a bed bug infestation in the fall
Bed bugs are highly active in the cold months and leave no opportunity to travel to a new home. Fortunately, there are a few steps people can take to prevent bed bugs from making their way into the home.
Use a hard-bodied suitcase while traveling
Inspect the kids’ clothing, bags, books, and other belongings for signs of bed bugs.
When booking a hotel, ensure that it did not report any recent bed bug infestation
Carefully inspect any second-hand furniture or bedding before purchasing
Wash and dry all clothes on high heat after returning home from vacation
Keep the home bed bug-free!
Reach out to a bed bug exterminator if you notice any signs of bed bug infestation. Pest control professionals will inspect the property, determine the extent of the problem, and use the most appropriate method to get rid of bed bugs.
Bed Bugs Arizona offers a free, in-home bed bug inspection and a one-year warranty on all bed bug services. No obligation. We specialize in apartment communities. Our fast, certified technicians provide the Pro-Treat Plus method of bed bug removal to Phoenix and surrounding cities in a 100-mile plus radius including Flagstaff, Globe, and Casa Grande. Veteran and senior discounts. Call now at (602) 962-8806.
