How to Exterminate Bed Bugs

Alert: Top 5 Shocking Reasons Why Bed Bugs Remain a Persistent Nightmare

Bed bugs, notorious for their resilience and adaptability, have emerged as a significant challenge in pest control. The increased ineffectiveness of pesticides against these pests has become a pressing concern. Historically, pesticides were considered a potent weapon against bed bug infestations. However, over time, these insects have developed strong resistance to various chemical treatments, rendering many traditional pesticides ineffective.

One of the primary reasons for this ineffectiveness is the evolutionary adaptation of bed bugs. They have developed thickened cuticles, which act as barriers to chemical agents, and have altered their nerve cells to reduce pesticide efficacy. This adaptation is not just against one specific type of pesticide but a broad range of chemicals used in pest control. As a result, many bed bug populations can now survive treatments that would have been lethal just a few years ago.

The overreliance on chemical solutions has exacerbated the problem. Frequent and improper use of pesticides has accelerated the development of resistance among bed bug populations. In many cases, pesticides are applied without proper identification of the pest or adherence to recommended guidelines, leading to insufficient exposure and, consequently, only partial elimination of the pests. This partial exposure further contributes to the development of resistance, as only the most resilient individuals survive and reproduce.

Beyond the issue of resistance, the use of pesticides for bed bug control raises significant health and environmental concerns. Many of these chemicals can have harmful effects on human health, particularly in situations where they are not used according to safety guidelines. There is also the issue of environmental contamination, as these chemicals can persist in the environment and affect non-target species.

In conclusion, the ineffectiveness of pesticides in controlling bed bugs highlights the need for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. IPM focuses on a combination of methods such as heat treatment, physical removal, and the use of pesticides as a last resort. Such strategies not only address the issue of pesticide resistance but also mitigate health and environmental risks. As bed bug infestations continue to challenge pest control efforts, a shift towards more sustainable and effective methods becomes increasingly crucial.

5 Reasons Why Most Bed Bug Treatments Do Not Work

Five Key Reasons Why Many Bed Bug Treatments Fail

1. Lack of Specialization in Bed Bug Extermination: Most companies offering bed bug treatments primarily focus on general pest control, like dealing with termites or mosquitoes. However, bed bugs are a unique challenge and need a different strategy and specific training and tools.
2. Ineffective Pesticides: Commonly used pesticides might work well for various household insects, but they fail against bed bugs. Unfortunately, there aren’t pesticides specifically made for bed bugs, which leads to many unsuccessful treatments.
3. Improper Preparation: Proper preparation is crucial in tackling a bed bug issue. This includes carefully packing up clothes and belongings for laundry or fumigation, and correctly setting up mattresses and box springs for treatment. Many companies overlook this step or leave it to the homeowner, which can lead to poor results. A thorough and professional approach is essential here.
4. Homeowner Involvement: There’s no magic solution for bed bugs. Effective treatment requires effort and cooperation from the homeowner. It’s important for the exterminator to clearly explain what responsibilities the homeowner has, and for the homeowner to be fully aware and involved in the process.
5. Lack of Follow-Up and Monitoring: After the initial treatment, it’s important to keep an eye on the situation. Properly installed monitoring devices and a follow-up visit within 2-4 weeks are key to ensuring the treatment is working and addressing any remaining issues. This follow-up step gives peace of mind to the homeowner and keeps the exterminator accountable.

The 3 biggest reasons why pesticides are not effective for bed bug extermination.

1. Every pesticide approved in the USA market under FIFRA ( Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act ) and used for bed bugs, was specifically developed for insects other than bed bugs. Only when those pesticides’ patent protection was about to expire, bed bug use was added to the list of insects on the label to extend the patent protection effectively giving the product a couple more years. Bed bugs are unique in many ways beginning with feeding habits, resistance building, harborage, and reproduction to name a few.
2. Every pesticide on the market utilizes a deterrent component. The deterrent component simply alerts the insect to the existence of the pesticide sending a message to the insect “It is dangerous for you here. Go elsewhere “. So far no problems, as long as you are dealing with insects entering your house from the outside. You apply the product on the exterior walls and all is fine. Well, bed bugs don’t live outdoors and don’t crawl into your home through doors and windows. Bed bugs can be transported into our homes on our clothing, furniture, and potentially any item that is brought in by us or our visitors. Or, in a multifamily building setting or a hotel, they can travel from one unit to the adjacent unit.

Therefore, if you apply a pesticide in one area you will simply push the bed bugs into the other area of your home where the pesticide was not used practically spreading the infestation. If you apply the pesticide throughout the entire house, the bed bugs will look for shelter in wall voids, cracks and crevices that the pesticide did not reach into, making proper bed bug extermination far more difficult and expensive. Btw. cracks and crevices are bed bug’s favorite places to live as they love to feel pressure on both sides of their bodies.

1. Imagine for a moment there was a pesticide that was effective for bed bugs and safe for you, your family, and your pets. If somehow, the bed bug or bed bug egg was exposed to but survived the treatment with that pesticide, within 2 generations the offspring will be 100% resistant to that pesticide. That translates to around 150 days on the long side or as little as 30 days under some conditions. 

Hopefully, by now you realize why there are no effective and safe pesticides on the market and why pesticide manufacturers are not rushing to develop new products.

Here, at K&A Pest Control we recognized that 14 years ago and this is when we dedicated ourselves 100% to the safe, effective, and non-toxic treatment of bed bugs using mostly mechanical methods and a true IPM ( Integrated Pest Management ) against which bed bugs simply can not defend or adapt.

Steam Treatment For Bed Bugs

 Proper steaming is essential if you wish to get rid of bed bugs quickly, safely, and without dangerous pesticides. The temperature of the steam must be high enough and the pressure high enough to penetrate cracks and crevices but not too high so it doesn’t just blow the bed bugs around before steam kills them. If you are treating hard-to-reach, deep creases on upholstered furniture generally the pressure should be higher. A variety of nozzles should be used as well to penetrate deep or to trap the heat more on the surface. The speed with which you move the nozzle should be uniform and around 12-15 seconds per foot. Going slower will not hurt but going too fast might adversely affect the steaming process.

Biggest problem with heat treatment for bed bugs

There are three major problems with ambient heat treatment for bed bugs.

1. The way the heat treatment for bed bugs is being sold to you. Do not get me wrong, heat treatment can and often does work but not by itself. There is no silver bullet or a panacea for bed bugs and there will not be any for a very long time ( I will cover this subject in the next video). Yet, the salespeople working for the companies that sell heat treatment will tell you that heat attracts bed bugs, that bed bugs are drawn to it from wherever they are hiding and then perish from heat exhaustion. That is exactly 2,5% true. What attracts or draws bed bugs to you, just like a few other insects is the CO2 we exhale. That’s right, this is how bed bugs know there is a living and breathing host in the vicinity CO2 represents  95% of attraction, and your body heat and body scent account for 2.5% each. If you don’t want to take my word for it, please refer to Purdue University or Kentucky University Entomology Department which are the two leading, non-biast sources for bed bug research or PCT ( Pest Control Technology) magazine.
2. Heat sink areas. These are the areas in the house that heat up at a slower rate than the other areas. Effectively speaking bed bugs will find refuge in those areas to escape the heat. Please note, that the temperature monitors used by companies providing ambient heat treatment for bed bugs are placed in the general areas,  not in the heat sink areas. Granted, not all of them will be able to find those cooler places and will die during heat treatment, however, that is not the goal nor what you were promised.
3. A complete lack of residual protection. This is the biggest problem with the ambient heat treatment for bed bugs. Once the heat dissipates and the temperature returns to normal there is no residual protection and nothing to continue the process of bed bug eradication. If even one bed bug or bed bug egg survived, which is not hard to imagine considering what I explained in the first two paragraphs, or if bed bugs were reintroduced to your home, there is simply nothing to stop the infestation from growing and this nightmare from continuing.

Biggest problem with Heat treatment for bed bugs

7 Effective Bed Bug Prevention Strategies in Orlando, Florida – A Guide by K&A Pest Control

7 Effective Bed Bug Prevention Strategies in Orlando, Florida – A Guide by K&A Pest Control

Introduction: Bed bug infestations can be a nightmare to deal with, causing discomfort and distress. If you’re in Orlando, Florida, where the warm climate can provide a conducive environment for these pests, it’s essential to take proactive steps to prevent bed bug infestations. In this guide, brought to you by K&A Pest Control, we’ll explore seven effective strategies to keep bed bugs at bay and maintain a pest-free environment in your home.

1 .Inspect Secondhand Furniture and Clothing: Before bringing any used furniture or clothing into your home, thoroughly inspect them for signs of bed bugs. Look for tiny reddish-brown bugs, shed skins, or small dark stains on the fabric. K&A Pest Control recommends treating secondhand items with heat or cold to kill any potential pests before introducing them to your living space.

2. Protect Your Mattresses and Box Springs: Invest in high-quality bed bug-proof mattress and box spring encasements. These protective covers prevent bed bugs from making a home in your bedding. Regularly inspect and clean these encasements to ensure their effectiveness.

3. Maintain a Clean Environment: Clutter provides hiding spots for bed bugs, making it easier for them to establish themselves. Keep your living spaces clean and organized, reducing potential hiding spots. Regularly vacuum and clean your floors, furniture, and upholstery to minimize the chances of an infestation.

4. Be Cautious When Traveling: Orlando’s popularity as a tourist destination can increase the risk of bed bug exposure through hotels and vacation rentals. K&A Pest Control suggests inspecting hotel rooms thoroughly before settling in. Check the mattress seams, headboard, and any cracks or crevices where bed bugs might hide. Keep your luggage off the floor and consider using luggage encasements for added protection.

5. Seal Cracks and Crevices: Bed bugs can easily travel between units in multi-family housing or apartment buildings. Seal any cracks or crevices in walls, baseboards, and floors to prevent them from spreading. K&A Pest Control recommends using caulk or sealant to eliminate potential entry points.

6. Regularly Launder and Dry Bedding: Wash your bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, regularly in hot water. Heat is a bed bug’s worst enemy. Follow up by drying your bedding on high heat to ensure any potential pests are eliminated. K&A Pest Control advises making this a routine practice to maintain a bed bug-free environment.

7. Professional Inspections by K&A Pest Control: The most effective way to ensure your home is bed bug-free is to schedule regular professional inspections by experts like K&A Pest Control. Their experienced technicians can identify early signs of infestations and provide targeted treatments to prevent the problem from escalating.

Conclusion: Preventing bed bug infestations requires a combination of vigilance and practical steps. By implementing these seven effective strategies, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering bed bugs in your Orlando, Florida home. Remember that prevention is always better than dealing with an infestation, and K&A Pest Control is here to assist you every step of the way. Stay proactive, and enjoy a peaceful, pest-free environment in the vibrant city of Orlando.

Review K&A Pest Control Bed Bug Extermination Specialists Orlando Florida

For immediate and permanent eradication of your bed bug problem contact K&A Pest Control at 407 974-4750

How to choose a Bed Bug Removal Company in Orlando Florida.

Experience Effective Bed Bug Control in Orlando, Florida Using Integrated Protective Management (IPM)

Experience Effective Bed Bug Control in Orlando, Florida

Are you struggling with persistent bed bug infestations in your Orlando home? Don’t worry, we understand the unique challenges these pests can pose in our warm and inviting climate. Bed bugs are notorious for their adaptability and resilience, making them a tough adversary. When seeking solutions, you might have come across ambient heat treatments, which claim to eliminate bed bugs using high temperatures. However, let’s delve into the science and realities of this approach and why it might not be your best option.

1. Unveiling the Science Behind Bed Bug Attraction

Bed bugs are indeed drawn to heat, but it’s important to separate the facts from the hype. Our body heat contributes only 2.5% to their attraction. The real magnet is the carbon dioxide we exhale, responsible for a staggering 95% of their interest. The remaining 5% is shared between our body scent and heat. This is the true bed bug biology. So, while the claim that heat is a lure is 2.5% true, the full picture tells a more intricate story.

2. The Costly Equipment Dilemma

In the beautiful city of Orlando, bed bug remediation should be effective, efficient, and budget-friendly. Ambient heat treatments require expensive equipment – think around $400K for an average 3-bedroom home in Boston. However, this cost is prohibitive for most companies in both Boston and Orlando. A common approach is to treat parts of the home sequentially due to these constraints. But this can merely relocate bed bugs within your space, rather than providing a comprehensive solution.

3. The Problem of Heat Sinks

Even Orlando’s well-built structures have areas that heat up unevenly. This fact, combined with the earlier discussed bed bug attraction factors, can reduce the effectiveness of heat treatments. Even if just one bed bug or egg survives the treatment, you’re left without protection.

4. The Lack of Residual Defense

The Orlando climate means fluctuations in room temperature are inevitable. Once the temperature returns to normal, heat treatments offer no ongoing protection against bed bug regrowth. If any bed bugs survive the treatment, you’re left exposed to the risk of re-infestation. This is particularly concerning for condos and apartments, where the chances of re-infestation are alarmingly high.

Discover the Ultimate Solution with K&A Pest Control

At K&A Pest Control, we understand Orlando’s unique pest challenges and employ Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles. Our approach is multifaceted, utilizing the most effective and safe tools to combat your bed bug nightmare.

We harness heat in a targeted manner, ensuring 100% efficacy and instant results. Our methods combine with mechanical solutions that exploit bed bug biology and feeding habits for thorough population eradication and sustained protection.

Unlike other options, our focus is solely on bed bug extermination. We offer immediate relief, comprehensive house preparation, and nontoxic treatments. There’s no need to vacate your home, and you’re covered by a full 12-month guarantee.

For more information, give us a call or complete our convenient online form. Don’t let bed bugs thrive in the beautiful warmth of Orlando – take control with K&A Pest Control.