Frequently Asked Questions

Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that feed on human blood. They are reddish-brown in color, approximately the size of an apple seed (4-5mm), and are visible to the naked eye. Bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases but can cause itching, allergic reactions, and sleep disruption.

Adult bed bugs are approximately 4-5mm in length (about the size of an apple seed) and reddish-brown in color. They become darker and more elongated after feeding. Bed bugs have flat, oval-shaped bodies and are wingless. Nymphs (immature bed bugs) are smaller and range from translucent to brownish as they mature.

Adult bed bugs are approximately 4-5mm in length, about the size of an apple seed. Nymphs (immature bed bugs) are smaller, starting at approximately 1mm when they first hatch. Bed bugs become larger and darker after feeding on blood.

Yes, bed bugs are visible to the naked eye. Adult bed bugs are approximately 4-5mm in length, about the size of an apple seed. However, they are skilled at hiding in cracks, crevices, and other concealed locations, making them difficult to spot even when present.

Bed bug bites typically appear as small red welts or bumps, often in lines or clusters. They commonly occur on exposed skin during sleep, including arms, shoulders, neck, and legs. Bites may cause itching and redness. Approximately 30% of people do not react to bed bug bites, so their absence does not rule out an infestation.

Yes, bed bug bites typically cause itching. The severity of itching varies between individuals. Some people experience mild itching, while others have more severe reactions. Itching usually appears within 1-3 days after being bitten, though some people react immediately.

Bed bug bites typically heal on their own within 1-2 weeks. The duration varies based on individual reactions and whether bites are scratched. To reduce healing time, avoid scratching and keep bites clean. If bites become infected or don't improve, consult a healthcare provider.

No, bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases to humans. However, their bites can cause allergic reactions, itching, and secondary skin infections from scratching. The stress and sleep disruption from an infestation can also impact mental health and wellbeing.

Bed bugs are not considered dangerous in terms of disease transmission, as they are not known to spread diseases to humans. However, their bites can cause allergic reactions, itching, and secondary infections. The stress and sleep disruption from infestations can also impact health and wellbeing.

Common signs of bed bugs include: small red bites appearing in lines or clusters (often on arms, shoulders, or neck), tiny blood spots on sheets or pillowcases, dark fecal spots on mattress seams or headboards, shed exoskeletons, and a sweet musty odor in severe infestations. Adult bed bugs are approximately the size of an apple seed and reddish-brown in color.

The first signs of bed bugs typically include unexplained bites appearing in lines or clusters, small blood spots on sheets or pillowcases, and dark fecal spots on mattress seams or headboards. Early infestations may have few visible signs, which is why professional inspection is recommended if you suspect bed bugs.

Bed bugs spread primarily through human activity. They commonly spread through travel (hotels, airplanes, public transportation), used furniture or clothing, visitors to your home, or adjacent apartments in multi-unit buildings. Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers and can survive for months without feeding.

Yes, bed bugs can travel on clothing. They are expert hitchhikers and can attach to clothing, luggage, and other personal items. This is why bed bugs commonly spread through travel and why it's important to inspect and wash clothing after staying in hotels or other locations where bed bugs may be present.

Yes, bed bugs can live in couches and other upholstered furniture. They hide in seams, cushions, and other concealed areas. Bed bugs are not limited to beds and can infest any area where people spend time, including couches, chairs, and other furniture.

Yes, bed bugs can live in carpet, particularly along edges and in areas near beds or furniture. However, carpet is not their preferred hiding spot. Bed bugs more commonly hide in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, furniture joints, and behind baseboards.

Yes, bed bugs can live in walls. They hide in cracks, behind baseboards, inside electrical outlets, and in other wall voids. This is one reason why heat treatment is effective—it penetrates walls and other areas that chemical treatments may not reach completely.

Yes, bed bugs can live in clean homes. Bed bugs are not attracted to dirt or filth—they are attracted to blood. Anyone can get bed bugs regardless of cleanliness. Bed bugs spread primarily through human activity, such as travel or bringing used furniture into the home.

Yes, one bed bug can cause an infestation. A single female bed bug can lay 1-5 eggs per day, and those eggs hatch in 6-10 days. A small infestation can become severe within 2-3 months if left untreated. Early detection and treatment are important to prevent rapid population growth.

Bed bug heat treatment is a chemical-free extermination method that uses high temperatures to kill bed bugs and their eggs throughout an entire home or structure. Professional heat treatment raises indoor temperatures to 130-140°F, which is lethal to bed bugs at all life stages.

Heat treatment uses specialized heaters to raise indoor temperatures to 130-140°F throughout the structure. Bed bugs die at temperatures above 120°F when exposed for sufficient time. The process involves monitoring temperatures in multiple locations to ensure lethal conditions are reached in all areas, including inside walls and furniture. Treatment typically takes 6-8 hours, with temperatures maintained at lethal levels for 3-4 hours.

Yes, heat treatment kills bed bugs. Studies show heat treatment achieves 95-100% elimination rates when performed correctly. Bed bugs die at temperatures above 120°F when exposed for sufficient time. Professional heat treatment raises temperatures to 130-140°F throughout the structure to ensure complete elimination.

Yes, heat treatment kills bed bug eggs. Eggs are often resistant to chemicals but cannot survive sustained heat above 120°F. Eggs require 90 minutes at 122°F or higher to be killed. Professional heat treatment maintains lethal temperatures for 3-4 hours to ensure eggs are eliminated.

Bed bugs die at temperatures above 120°F when exposed for sufficient time. Adult bed bugs die in less than 1 minute at 122°F. Eggs are more heat-resistant and require 90 minutes at 122°F or higher. Professional heat treatment typically raises temperatures to 130-140°F throughout the structure to ensure lethal conditions in all areas.

A typical whole-house heat treatment takes 6-8 hours. The process includes heating the structure to target temperatures (130-140°F), maintaining lethal temperatures for 3-4 hours to ensure complete elimination including eggs, then cooling. You can typically return home the same evening once temperatures return to normal.

Yes, most professional bed bug heat treatments are completed in one day. The heating process typically lasts 6-8 hours, depending on the size of the space and severity of the infestation. You can typically return home the same evening once temperatures return to normal.

Bed bug heat treatment is safe when performed by trained professionals. Items that may be sensitive to heat are removed beforehand, and temperatures are carefully monitored throughout the treatment. Most household items, including electronics, can remain in place when temperatures are controlled precisely.

In most cases, heat treatment is more effective than chemical treatments. Research shows heat treatment achieves 95-100% elimination rates in a single treatment, compared to 60-70% for chemical treatments that typically require multiple applications. Heat treatment kills all life stages at once, leaves no chemical residue, and bed bugs cannot develop resistance to heat.

When heat treatment is performed correctly, bed bugs cannot survive. The key is maintaining consistent lethal temperatures (above 120°F) throughout the structure for sufficient duration (3-4 hours). Professional heat treatment monitors temperatures in multiple locations to ensure complete coverage. If bed bugs return after treatment, it's typically due to reinfestation from new sources, not survival of the original infestation.

Studies show heat treatment achieves 95-100% elimination rates when performed correctly. The effectiveness depends on maintaining consistent lethal temperatures throughout the structure for sufficient duration. Heat treatment is more effective than chemical treatments, which typically achieve 60-70% elimination rates and require multiple applications.

No, heat treatment does not damage furniture when performed correctly. Most furniture and household items can remain in place during treatment. Heat-sensitive items like candles, medications, and aerosol cans should be removed beforehand. Professional heat treatment uses precise temperature control to eliminate bed bugs without damaging belongings.

Bed bug treatment costs vary based on home size, square footage, and infestation severity. Most residential heat treatments range from $1,500 to $3,500. Chemical treatments may cost less per treatment ($300-$800) but typically require multiple applications. Free inspections and detailed quotes are provided with no obligation.

Bed bug heat treatment typically costs $1,500 to $3,500 for most residential properties. Costs vary based on home size, layout, and infestation severity. While heat treatment may cost more upfront than chemical treatment, the single-treatment success often makes it more economical overall. Financing options are available.

Bed bug treatment is expensive because it requires specialized equipment, trained technicians, and time-intensive processes. Heat treatment requires expensive heating equipment and careful temperature monitoring. Professional treatment is necessary because DIY methods are rarely effective, and bed bugs hide in difficult-to-reach locations.

Yes, heat treatment is worth the cost for most situations. Research shows heat treatment achieves 95-100% elimination rates in a single treatment, compared to 60-70% for chemical treatments that require multiple applications. The single-treatment success, ability to keep furniture, and no chemical residue make heat treatment a cost-effective solution overall.

Bed bug treatment is typically not covered by standard homeowners or renters insurance policies. Insurance companies generally consider bed bugs a maintenance issue rather than a covered peril. Some property management companies may cover treatment costs for tenants, depending on lease terms and local regulations.

Heat treatment may cost more upfront ($1,500-$3,500) but often proves more economical overall due to single-treatment success. Chemical treatment may cost less per treatment ($300-$800) but requires multiple applications over several weeks, potentially totaling similar or higher costs when including follow-up visits.

Factors affecting bed bug treatment cost include: home size and square footage, number of rooms, home layout and accessibility, severity of infestation, type of treatment (heat vs. chemical), and geographic location. Larger homes and severe infestations typically cost more to treat.

Preparation for heat treatment includes: removing heat-sensitive items (candles, medications, aerosol cans), relocating pets and plants, opening closet doors and drawers, moving furniture slightly away from walls, and ensuring access to all areas. A detailed preparation checklist is provided before treatment. Proper preparation is important for treatment success.

Yes, you must leave your home during heat treatment. Temperatures reach 130-140°F, which is unsafe for people and pets. You can typically return home the same evening once temperatures return to normal levels (usually within 1-2 hours after treatment ends).

You typically need to be out of the house for 6-8 hours during heat treatment. The process includes heating the structure to target temperatures, maintaining lethal temperatures for 3-4 hours, then cooling. You can typically return home the same evening once temperatures return to normal.

Items that need to be removed before heat treatment include: candles and wax items, prescription medications, aerosol cans and compressed gases, live plants, and pets. Most furniture, clothing, and household items can remain in place. A detailed preparation checklist is provided before treatment.

Clothes do not need to be washed before heat treatment, but it's recommended to wash and dry clothing on high heat after treatment if you suspect bed bugs may have been on them. Heat treatment will kill bed bugs in clothing that remains in the home, but washing and drying on high heat provides additional assurance.

No, pets cannot stay during heat treatment. Temperatures reach 130-140°F, which is unsafe for pets. All pets, including fish, must be removed from the home before treatment. You can typically return with pets the same evening once temperatures return to normal.

During heat treatment, specialized heaters raise indoor temperatures to 130-140°F throughout the structure. Technicians monitor temperatures in multiple locations to ensure lethal conditions are reached in all areas, including inside walls and furniture. The process typically takes 6-8 hours, with temperatures maintained at lethal levels for 3-4 hours.

After heat treatment, temperatures are allowed to return to normal (usually within 1-2 hours). You can return home the same evening. A post-treatment inspection may be conducted to verify effectiveness. Most items can be used immediately, though the home may feel warm initially. You can sleep in your bed that same night.

Yes, heat treatment works the first time when performed correctly. Studies show heat treatment achieves 95-100% elimination rates in a single treatment. The key is maintaining consistent lethal temperatures throughout the structure for sufficient duration. This is why professional heat treatment is recommended over DIY methods.

Yes, one heat treatment is typically enough to kill bed bugs when performed correctly. Research shows heat treatment achieves 95-100% elimination rates in a single treatment. Chemical treatments typically require multiple applications over several weeks to achieve similar results.

Heat treatment eliminates the existing infestation in your home. However, bed bugs can return if reintroduced from new sources such as travel, visitors, or adjacent units in multi-unit buildings. Heat treatment does not prevent future infestations—it eliminates the current one. Following prevention guidelines can help reduce the risk of reinfestation.

No, follow-up treatments are typically not needed with heat treatment when performed correctly. Heat treatment eliminates bed bugs and eggs in a single treatment. If bed bugs return, it's usually due to reinfestation from new sources rather than survival of the original infestation. A 90-day warranty typically covers re-treatment if needed.

A bed bug treatment warranty is a guarantee that if bed bugs return within a specified period (typically 60-90 days), the company will re-treat at no additional cost. Warranties cover the original treatment area and require that you follow prevention guidelines. Specific warranty terms vary by company and are provided with the treatment agreement.

Heat treatment eliminates bed bugs immediately—bed bugs die during the treatment process. The results are permanent for the treated infestation. However, treatment does not prevent future infestations from new sources. If bed bugs return, it's typically due to reinfestation rather than the original treatment failing.

You can typically return home the same evening after heat treatment, once temperatures return to normal levels (usually within 1-2 hours after treatment ends). The treatment team will contact you when it's safe to re-enter. You can sleep in your bed that same night. The home may feel warm initially but will cool quickly.

While DIY methods may kill some bed bugs, research shows they are rarely effective for complete elimination. Bed bugs hide in difficult-to-reach locations, and many have developed resistance to over-the-counter pesticides. Professional treatment is recommended for reliable results, as it uses specialized equipment and techniques that DIY methods cannot replicate.

DIY heat treatment is generally not effective. Professional heat treatment requires specialized equipment that can maintain consistent lethal temperatures throughout the entire structure for sufficient duration. Home heating methods, such as space heaters, cannot achieve the temperatures or coverage needed for effective bed bug elimination.

Most home remedies are not effective for eliminating bed bug infestations. Essential oils, natural remedies, and household products do not kill bed bugs reliably. Some methods may kill individual bed bugs but cannot eliminate entire infestations, especially eggs and hidden populations. Professional treatment is recommended for reliable results.

Steam can kill bed bugs on contact when applied directly, but it is not effective for eliminating entire infestations. Steam cannot reach bed bugs hidden inside walls, furniture, or other concealed locations. Professional heat treatment uses whole-structure heating that penetrates all areas, making it far more effective than spot steam treatment.

Rubbing alcohol can kill bed bugs on contact, but it is not effective for eliminating entire infestations. Alcohol evaporates quickly and cannot reach bed bugs hidden in walls, furniture, or other locations. Additionally, alcohol is flammable and poses fire risks. Professional treatment is recommended for reliable, safe elimination.

No, foggers and bug bombs are not effective against bed bugs. Bed bugs hide in cracks, crevices, and other locations that foggers cannot reach. Additionally, many bed bug populations have developed resistance to the pesticides used in foggers. Professional treatment is necessary for reliable bed bug elimination.

Professional bed bug treatment is recommended because it uses specialized equipment and techniques that DIY methods cannot replicate. Professionals can identify all infestation areas, use effective treatment methods, and ensure complete coverage. Research shows professional treatment achieves significantly higher success rates than DIY methods.

No, bed bugs do not live in hair. Bed bugs prefer to hide in cracks, crevices, and other concealed locations near where people sleep. They feed on exposed skin and then return to hiding spots. Bed bugs are not like lice—they do not attach to hair or live on the body.

No, bed bugs do not live on your body. Bed bugs feed on blood and then return to hiding spots in furniture, walls, or other locations. They are not like lice or ticks that attach to the body. Bed bugs only come to the body to feed, typically at night.

No, bed bugs cannot bite through clothing. They feed on exposed skin. However, bed bugs can crawl under loose clothing to reach skin. Wearing tight-fitting clothing can help prevent bites, but it does not eliminate the need for treatment if you have an infestation.

Yes, bed bugs can hide in electronics, particularly in warm areas like computers and televisions. However, most electronics can remain in place during professional heat treatment when temperatures are controlled precisely. It's recommended to unplug electronics as a precaution during treatment.

Bed bugs cannot survive washing machines when combined with high heat drying. Washing alone may not kill all bed bugs, but washing in hot water (120°F or higher) followed by drying on high heat for at least 30 minutes will kill bed bugs and eggs. This is an effective method for treating clothing and bedding.

No, bed bugs cannot survive dryers when used on high heat. Drying clothing and bedding on high heat for at least 30 minutes will kill bed bugs and eggs. The heat from dryers (typically 140-180°F) is lethal to bed bugs at all life stages.

Bed bugs can survive cold weather but die at freezing temperatures (32°F) when exposed for sufficient time. However, bed bugs typically live indoors where temperatures are controlled, so outdoor cold weather does not affect indoor infestations. Professional heat treatment is more reliable than cold treatment for elimination.

Professional heat treatment is safe when performed by trained technicians. Temperatures are carefully monitored, and heat-sensitive items are removed beforehand. Fire risks are minimized through proper equipment use, temperature monitoring, and safety protocols. Professional heat treatment companies are licensed and insured.

Midwest Bed Bug Services provides professional bed bug heat treatment across 8 regions in the Midwest. We specialize exclusively in bed bug treatment and offer one-day heat treatment with a 90-day warranty. Free inspections and estimates are available. Contact us to find service in your area.

Bed bugs can be exterminated in one day with professional heat treatment. Heat treatment typically takes 6-8 hours and eliminates bed bugs and eggs in a single treatment. Same-day and next-day service is available in most areas. Contact us for current availability.

Yes, many professional bed bug exterminators offer same-day service when available. Same-day treatment depends on schedule and availability. Same-day inspections are often available. Contact us to check availability for same-day service in your area.

Yes, bed bug treatment can be financed. We work with third-party financing companies to offer payment plans for bed bug treatment. Financing options are available to qualified applicants. Ask about financing options when you receive your treatment quote.

When choosing a bed bug exterminator, look for: specialization in bed bugs (not general pest control), experience with heat treatment, proper licensing and insurance, clear warranty terms, free inspections and estimates, and positive customer reviews. Ask about treatment methods, success rates, and warranty coverage.

Choose a bed bug heat treatment company that: specializes in bed bugs, has experience with heat treatment, uses professional-grade equipment, offers clear warranties, provides free inspections, and has positive customer reviews. Ask about success rates, treatment process, and what to expect. Get multiple quotes and compare services.