Understanding Bedbugs: What they are and effective ways to get rid of them

Bedbugs are a common problem in Oklahoma, but many may not know what exactly the insects are or effective ways to remove them if they are already in your home.

There are ways to treat your home for bedbugs, but first, you must know what they are and what they look like.

What are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals, which also makes them parasites.

The Centers for Disease Contrrol and Prevention say the insects are wingless, flat and range from 1mm to 7mm in size. Although they don’t spread diseases, the CDC says they cause significant discomfort, including itching, loss of sleep, and skin irritation.

Unlike other pests, their presence isn’t tied to pet ownership or poor cleanliness; rather, they thrive wherever humans are.

RELATED: OU student grapples with ongoing bed bug issue

Bedbugs' relationship with humans means that homes, hotels and other spaces where people gather are prime environments for bedbugs.

A report on bedbugs from Oklahoma State University says the pests are especially problematic in tourist destinations, with a recent infestation noted in Paris, France, when the city hosted the 2024 Summer Olympics.

With Olympic events also coming to Oklahoma City in 2028, that could mean the bugs could be unintentionally brought here, or taken with the athletes when they return home. In fact, the OSU report brings up a 2023 survey by mattress review company Mattress Clarity, which listed Oklahoma City as the ninth-worst city for bed bugs that year.

Population centers with higher densities are more likely to report infestations simply because there are more people to notice and report them. However, the OSU report say this does not mean denser areas are more vulnerable to bed bugs; it simply highlights the challenges of managing infestations in larger populations.

Signs and Symptoms of Bed Bug Bites

The CDC says bedbug bites typically appear on the face, neck, arms or hands, often within 1-14 days after the initial bite

The bites are usually small, red, and swollen, resembling mosquito or flea bites, and can cause intense itching. Although bedbugs are not known to spread diseases to humans, in some cases, scratching bedbug bites can lead to secondary skin infections.

Bed bug bites may not always be noticeable right away, and allergic reactions are possible, however. In rare cases, anaphylaxis can occur. If you suspect an allergic reaction, it's important to seek medical attention.

Where are Bedbugs Found?

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, bedbugs are skilled at hiding in small cracks and crevices.

The insects commonly infest places where people sleep, such as bed frames, mattresses, box springs and furniture, but they can also hide behind wallpaper or inside dresser tables.

Although bed bugs can travel more than 100 feet in a single night, they usually stay within 8 feet of their food source: human blood.

How do Bedbugs Spread?

Bedbugs can spread by hitching a ride in luggage, bags, clothing or bedding and are a common problem in hotels, dormitories, and public transportation.

Bedbugs can live for months without feeding, allowing them to spread without detection. Once they infest an area, they tend to hide during the day and feed at night, meaning identifying them early is key to preventing a larger infestation.

How do I Identify a Bedbug Infestation

If you notice small, itchy bites or other signs of an infestation, these could be indicators that you have a bed bug problem:

1. Exoskeletons shed by bed bugs after molting
2. Bed bugs hiding in the folds of mattresses or sheets
3. Rust-colored blood spots on bedding or furniture
4. A sweet, musty odor

Bed bug bite marks can take up to two weeks to appear, and the severity can vary from person to person.

How to get rid of Bedbugs

If you suspect an infestation, the most effective solution is to contact a trusted pest control expert.

Professional pest control specialists are trained to assess the situation and provide efficient, long-term solutions. Traditional insecticides have limited effectiveness, and it’s essential to treat areas directly affected by the pests.

According to OSU Extension entomology and plant pathology associate specialist Kevin Shelton, the most successful method for treating bed bugs is penetrating heat.

Pest control experts will often expose infested spaces to temperatures between 120 and 130 degrees, which is proven to eliminate bed bugs at all life stages. Although heat treatments can be time-consuming and costly, they are highly effective in eradicating infestations.

Quick Tips for Preventing and Remediating Bedbugs

The OSU report says that when staying in hotels, avoid placing luggage directly on the floor or bed. Instead, store it in the bathtub, as bed bugs cannot climb smooth surfaces.

If you find signs of infestation, request a new room immediately.

Additionally, the report says to be cautious when picking up used furniture or mattresses from thrift stores or other secondhand sources, as they may harbor bedbugs.

To reduce the chances of bringing bed bugs into your home, inspect sleeping areas when traveling and check for signs of infestations, such as bed bugs in the folds of mattresses or sheets.

When you return home, wash your clothes and bedding in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any bed bugs that may have been transported.