Did you know there’s very little legal oversight over bed bugs in South Carolina? Combine this with the state’s mild climate, and your exposure chances are high.
Infestations can be expensive and cause health issues. Are bed bugs common in South Carolina? What are the signs of an infestation, and how do you get rid of it for good?
If you need these answers and more, we’re here to help. Read on to learn all the essential information about these intrusive pests, including how to get rid of bed bugs for your wallet and sanity’s sake.
Are Bed Bugs Common in South Carolina?
Unfortunately, yes. South Carolina is a hotbed of bed bug activity, only slightly behind the top states like Ohio, New York, and Florida. Tourist cities like Myrtle Beach have especially high reported exposure in places like motels, hotels, and resorts.
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control won’t intervene if a public business has an infestation. This means you have to check for bed bugs signs on your own.
Signs of Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small and often difficult to spot. You may have to look for other infestation clues. Common signs include:
- Small black or dark red spots (feces)
- Red, irritated areas on skin (bites)
- Rusty stains on sleeping areas (crushed bugs)
- Musty and/or sweetish smells
- Pale shell casings and egg clusters
Bed bugs hide in clutter, cracks, and easy-access places like carpets and mattresses. This lets them creep out at night and feast on humans and animals without being detected. Always go over prime bed bug areas before settling in for sleep.
How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs Now
These little bugs aren’t exactly dangerous, unlike other pests. The longer you wait, however, the more bed bug damage stacks up. This includes:
- Discolorations
- Filth
- Itching
- Irritation
- Allergies
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Trauma
Proper control is a mix of at-home prevention and professional help. It’s critical to get professional bed bug treatments ASAP.
You won’t be able to eliminate an infestation on your own entirely. Bed bug removal costs also become higher as the infestation grows more severe and spreads to other rooms of the house.
Self-administered bed bug treatments include using heat to kill invaders. Wash items in hot water, use high dryer settings, and carefully go over your furniture with portable heating units. This will cook critters in their tracks.
Professional pest control units will get all the cracks and crannies you aren’t able to reach. Even missing one or two bugs can start the infestation all over again, so make sure your professionals know their stuff.
Preventing More Bed Bugs in South Carolina
Once all the pesky critters are gone, how do you keep them away for good? Preventing bed bug infestations can be tricky.
In South Carolina, winters may be mild enough for bed bugs to last year-round. Prevention tips include:
- Vacuum and dust regularly
- Store items in tight plastic bins
- Treat secondhand furniture before bringing it inside
- Treat luggage and clothes after trips
- Use anti-pest furniture covers
You can also schedule regular pest control management to detect bed bugs and other pests like fleas, rodents, and even wildlife animals.
Premium Pest and Wildlife Control at Local Prices
Bed bugs in South Carolina are persistent and numerous. Now that you know the answer to “Are bed bugs common in South Carolina?” (yes) and “How to get rid of bed bugs now?” (call the pros ASAP!) you’re ready to start living an infestation-free life.
Are you searching for pest and wildlife management from trusted experts? Our local, family-owned business has over 20 years of experience and the requisite training/certifications needed to get even the most challenging jobs done.
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