Bedbug: How Does It Live? How to Eradicate It from the House with This Simple Method
Bedbugs — small, flat, brownish insects — have been quietly invading homes for centuries. They feed on human blood, usually at night, and can cause itchy, red welts that are often mistaken for mosquito bites. These pests hide in mattresses, bed frames, furniture, and even tiny cracks in walls, making them notoriously hard to spot.
How Bedbugs Live
Bedbugs are nocturnal hunters. During the day, they hide in dark, warm places near where you sleep. At night, they come out to feed, guided by your body heat and the carbon dioxide you exhale. They can survive for months without feeding, which is why simply leaving a room empty won’t get rid of them.
Signs of an Infestation
- Small red or brown stains on your sheets or mattress (bedbug droppings)
- Itchy bite marks in clusters or lines on your skin
- Tiny eggs or eggshells in mattress seams or crevices
- A musty, sweet odor in heavily infested areas
The Simple Method to Eliminate Them
While there are many chemical sprays on the market, one natural and effective method is diatomaceous earth. This fine powder is harmless to humans and pets but deadly to bedbugs. It works by dehydrating them until they die.
How to Use It:
- Remove bedding and wash all sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water, then dry on the highest heat setting.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth generously around mattress seams, bed frames, baseboards, and any cracks where bedbugs may hide.
- Leave it for at least 48 hours before vacuuming thoroughly.
- Repeat once a week until you no longer see signs of bedbugs.
For extra protection, use mattress and pillow encasements to trap any survivors and prevent re-infestation. Regular inspection and cleaning will keep your home bedbug-free.
