Bed bug infestations increase during the moving season. Here are some tips to prevent these unwanted parasites from entering and get rid of them.

During their move, some will meet new neighbors, while others will be surprised to find that they live with unwanted parasites, bed bugs. Hélène Bouchard, pest control expert and founder of MBM Parasite Management, points out that during the period of address changes, there are more and more requests for eradication. Here are some tips to prevent parasites from making your move a nightmare.

How do you notice their presence?

Although fast moving, bed bugs are visible to the naked eye. They are brownish or reddish in color and can be recognized by their oval shape, about the size of an apple seed. They are insects that neither fly nor jump.

“You have to act quickly. – Helene Bouchard

As the name suggests, bed bugs are mainly found near beds, on mattresses or box springs. In the event of an infestation, they can spread quickly and end up in unusual places, such as behind electrical baseboards or on window frames.

Health Canada recommends regularly inspecting your home to prevent an infestation. The organization recommends examining the seams of mattresses, sofas, and upholstered furniture with a flashlight. Bed bugs leave small black or bloody spots.

The presence of bug eggs is also a sign of an infestation. They are white, about the size of a pinhead, and occur in groups in close quarters.

Can we prevent her arrival?

Hélène Bouchard points out that “bed bugs have no social status”. Health Canada reminds that bed bugs can infest anyone and that cleanliness is not the cause. However, the agency recommends adopting some habits to curb its spread. She recommends vacuuming regularly, including the undersides of the beds, and avoiding clutter so the animals can’t hide. It is also recommended to seal cracks in ceilings and walls, paying particular attention to the partition walls to limit their entry points. Hélène Bouchard also recommends purchasing a quality anti-bed bug cover.

When moving house, Hélène Bouchard recommends that you inspect your new home carefully upon arrival, if possible beforehand. The pest control expert, also based in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, says that in the event of an infestation we “must act quickly”. Health Canada recommends screening all items you take home with you. Bed bugs can hide in furniture, but also in used books and clothes.

If you are using a moving truck, the Quebec government recommends inspecting the vehicle to ensure no traces of bed bugs are visible. He also recommends checking with the company about the measures they are taking to prevent the spread of bed bugs. Health Canada is also asking citizens to check their vehicle after helping a friend move.

Safe with the new one?

New furniture and mattresses can also transmit unwanted pests. Health Canada mentions that trucks that receive new mattresses can also transport used mattresses. The government agency recommends checking their new property and requiring it to arrive sealed.

What about used furniture?

Health Canada advises that roadside furniture found may contain bed bugs. The organization recommends never picking them up. If you are bringing used items into your home, the Quebec government recommends that you inspect them carefully. To treat potentially contaminated textiles, it is recommended to place them in the dryer for at least 30 minutes at a very high temperature. Hélène Bouchard also advocates the use of steam engines, which kill the eggs due to their high temperature.

Hélène Bouchard strongly advises against bringing used furniture directly into the house. She recommends packing items in tightly sealed, dark bags and leaving them outside for at least a month.

You are already there, what can I do?

“Don’t try to get the problem under control yourself,” recommends Hélène Bouchard. Over-the-counter insecticides can make insects more resistant to treatments, making them more difficult to eliminate. Health Canada also recommends calling in a pest control specialist in the event of an infestation.

Hélène Bouchard points out the dangers of using insecticides yourself: Misuse can lead to health problems.

If you are a tenant, you must inform your landlord so that he can take the necessary steps. If you are the owner, contact an exterminator immediately.

Health consequences

The Quebec government reports that the main symptoms of bed bug bites are red bumps and itching. Some people also develop allergic reactions from stings.

Although bed bugs don’t transmit diseases, Hélène Bouchard emphasizes the mental health consequences of an infestation. Parasites can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and stress.

While the move season requires additional inquiries from pest controllers, Hélène Bouchard also warns of roach infestations. These parasites are often carriers of the diseases they are likely to cause, and also cause asthma in some people.