Bed Bugs Threat and Prevention

Bed Bugs Threat and Prevention

Bed Bugs

Bed Bugs Threat and Prevention

A rising number of bed bug incidents in Paris and other major cities is raising concerns about public health. The insects have been spotted in many private homes and public spaces in Paris, including cinemas, hotels, metro, and even Charles de Gaulle airport.

Singapore is a major global transport hub. Because of that, the country is extra prone to bed bugs infestations, since bed bugs typically attach themselves to clothes and luggage. As we approach the end of the year, Singapore is starting to see more travelers who could easily and unknowingly bring bed bugs into the country. In light of this situation, NEA advises people to watch for any signs of bed bug issues in Singapore and to conduct comprehensive inspections and cleaning of areas susceptible to bed bug infestations.

How to Spot Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are on average 5-7mm in size, usually black or brown in colour. They hide in locations with regular access to food, including mattresses, wallpapers, boxes, picture frames and similar.

If you are staying in a hotel or common room, it is important to pay close attention to mattresses, the bed frame and bedside furniture, and areas where luggage is stored. Take some time to learn about other places where bed bugs come from.

Taking Preventive Measures

People are advised to have a regular cleaning routine and perform thorough inspections for any signs of bed bugs. Vacuuming all areas of the room can help you minimize the extent of a bed bug infestation and reduce the risk of spreading. And by having regular pest inspections in place, you can mitigate the risks of the infestations.

How Do You Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

If you detect bed bugs on your property, there are some DIY things that you can do to get rid of them. The infested clothing and bedding should be washed at a high temperature. Other fabrics that can’t be washed should be either treated with high temperatures or placed in the freezer for a couple of days. You will also need to vacuum all the areas that are suspected of bed bug infestations. Don’t forget to throw out the contents of your vacuum cleaner.

It is also advisable to hire a professional pest management company to locate the source of the infestation and prevent it from becoming a bigger problem.


Common Causes of Bed Bug Infestations

Common Bed Bug Causes: Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?

Bed Bugs

Common Causes of Bed Bug Infestations

Bed bugs infestations can cause a lot of frustration and pain for homeowners and hotel guests. These tiny insects leave small itching bites that make you feel “dirty”. However, it is a common misconception that bed bugs are drawn to filth: they can live in any environment. So what are common bed bug causes and how to prevent them from infesting your home?

What causes bed bug infestations?

Bed bugs tend to live where lots of people live or come and go frequently. They can survive up to a year without any food, and they can easily attach themselves to people’s stuff until they find a nice place to live in. Knowing the common causes of bed bug infestations can help you prevent them from occupying your property.

Here are some of the most common causes of bed bug infestations:

  • Travel: Bed bugs can easily travel on your luggage, clothing, or other personal items. If you stay in a hotel, hostel, or other accommodation with bed bugs, they can easily make their way back home with you.
  • Secondhand Items: Bed bugs can also be found in used furniture, clothing, and other secondhand items. That’s why it is important to inspect those items before bringing them home.
  • Crowded Living Conditions: Bed bugs thrive in crowded living conditions, such as apartment buildings, dormitories, and shelters.
  • Poor Sanitation: While bed bugs can thrive in any (even the cleanest) environments, cluttered or dirty spaces can make it easier for them to hide and reproduce.
  • Lack of Awareness: Many people are not aware of the signs of bed bugs, which is key to preventing bed bug infestations from becoming a serious problem.

main causes of bed bugs

Where do bed bugs come from?

Despite their name, bed bugs can come from a variety of sources and places. Here are some of the most common places where bed bugs come from:

  • Hotels, hostels and other accommodations
  • Secondhand furniture, clothing and other items
  • Public places, such as movie theaters, public transportation and waiting rooms
  • Apartments, dormitories, and shelters
  • Office buildings
  • Schools, colleges and universities

They can attach themselves to different objects, like:

  • Sheets and blankets
  • Suitcases or luggage
  • Various clutter, like piles of clothing
  • Walls, floors, and other openings
  • Seams of upholstered furniture
  • Cardboard boxes, etc

The Ultimate Guide to Bed Bugs Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

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what causes bed bugs

How to avoid bringing bed bugs into my home?

Knowing how bed bugs can get into your home is essential to take proactive measures to prevent them from entering your home. They can easily find their way into your home through a variety of sources, so here are some tips to avoid that:

  • If you spend the night in a hotel or resort, or even visiting your friend’s house, you can bring the bed bugs home. To avoid this, keep your belongings off the floors. Also, check bedding and furniture in a room where you’re staying.
  • They can also hitch a ride on public transportation or from work, making it important to keep an eye out for bed bug bites or any signs of bed bugs.
  • Another common way bed bugs can enter your home is through guests staying with you, who could bring them along unknowingly. To prevent this, it’s always a good idea to wash their bedding at the hottest temperature once they leave.
  • If you take or purchase used furniture (not only beds), it is also important to inspect those items for black streaks, shed insect casings, and bloodstains.
  • Clear your home of clutter where bed bugs can thrive.

What are some signs of a bed bug infestation?

Recognizing the signs of a bed bug infestation early on can help you take prompt action to address the issue effectively. Besides painful swelling bites, you may also notice:

  • Bloodstains on sheets
  • Dark or rusty colored stains on your mattress, bedding, or nearby furniture
  • Eggshells and shed skin, droppings and small white eggs resembling rice
  • In some cases, you may also notice bed bugs themselves

Pro Tip: If you discover bed bugs in your home, contact Killem Pest to get necessary help before it becomes a bigger problem.

Author: Soleha Nisaa

Frequently Asked Questions

Bed bugs are attracted to several factors in homes, including warmth, carbon dioxide exhaled by humans and animals, body heat and human odors such as sweat and body oils, and dark and tight spaces to hide (e.g. cluttered areas and crevices).

Bed bugs primarily feed on the blood of humans and animals, so they do not consume food in the traditional sense.

Bed bugs are attracted to human and animal hosts by scents such as carbon dioxide, body odor, and lactic acid. They are also attracted to the smell of dirty laundry or dirty bedding, so it is important to do your laundry on a regular basis.

Bed bugs do not feed on or show interest in scents associated with regular food items like crumbs, leftovers, or sweet-smelling substances. Additionally, bed bugs are not attracted to light, as they prefer to be active during the darkness of night.


Booklice versus bed bugs main differences

Booklice Versus Bed Bugs: What Are the Main Differences?

Bed Bugs

Booklice versus bed bugs main differences

We often get questions about the differences between booklice and bed bugs. If you want to spot and remove an infestation of booklice or bed bugs, you need to know the signs of both.

Booklice versus bed bugs: Why is it important to know the difference between the two?

Each type of pest infestation is aggravating to home and business owners. Understanding the type and size of an infestation is critical to determine the right treatment method. When it comes to booklice and bed bugs, both types of pests behave differently.

While booklice are generally harmless, bed bugs bites can be painful to humans. Booklice and bed bugs are also active in different areas. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between the two.

booklice vs bed bugs comparison infographic

What are the main characteristics of booklice and bed bugs?

  1. Booklice are smaller than bed bugs
  2. Bed bugs feed on blood, booklice feed on mould or mildew
  3. Bed bugs leave painful and itchy bites on humans, while booklice do not bite

What you need to know about bed bugs

Signs of bed bugs and booklice

We now know that bed bugs and booklice behave differently. Are you concerned that you may have an infestation of bed bugs or booklice? Let’s sum up the main signs.

The main signs of a bed bugs infestation include:

  • Reddish stains on bed sheets
  • Dark spots on the mattress
  • Dark spots on other furniture
  • A sweet, musty smell
  • Bites and itches on your skin (red spots)

The main signs of a booklice infestation include:

  • Powdery or small black spots near cardboard materials and books
  • Crawling insects near windows, doors, bookcases and areas with high humidity

The Ultimate Guide to Booklice

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old book with booklice

Bed bugs versus booklice: What damage can they cause?

The most important creature to cause damage is a bed bug. They leave painful, itchy bites on the human flesh. Booklice are not that interested in human beings.

Both bed bugs and booklice can cause material damage. In the case of bed bugs, they can turn your bedroom into a living hell. Stains of blood from bed bugs is the most common damage caused by the little insects.

Booklice spend most of their time around products made of paper and cardboard. Hence, one of the most common types of damage caused by booklice is the destruction of books. You may also want to protect your most important paper documents to prevent booklice from destroying them.

Pro Tip: To get rid of any infestation, you need to identify what type of pests you are dealing with and where they come from.

How to remove bed bugs and booklice?

Let’s move to the most important part of our comparison of bed bugs versus booklice. There are various approaches to removing pest infestations.

If you think you have a booklice infestation, you can take some action yourself to try to remove them. One of the things you can do is reduce humidity by using dehumidifiers. If you have any water leakage, it is also worth to get it fixed. There are some essential oils that may prove to be helpful, such as peppermint and lavender oil.

A bed bugs infestations is much more serious and requires the intervention of a professional. Contact your nearest pest control company for an inspection and removal treatment. If you do want to take some action yourself in the meantime, it is a good practice to wash your bedding frequently in hot water. This will help prevent further aggravation in the short term. To get rid of the bed bugs infestation for good, a pest control technician needs to come in and go to the source of the problem.

Author: Soleha Nisaa

Frequently Asked Questions

Booklice can be easily mistaken for bed bugs, especially bed bug nymphs. Both are light-colored but bed bug nymphs have less elongated bodies.

Booklice are less harmful to people and animals as they don’t bite, however, both bed bugs and booklice can cause some disruption and stress.

Booklice can be found anywhere with moisture, including upholstered furniture, damp papers or books, and old mattresses.

Bed bugs can be mistaken for bat bugs, spider beetles, baby cockroaches, carpet beetles, ticks, fleas, booklice, or headlice.


bed bugs guide singapore

The Ultimate Guide to Bed Bugs Prevention and Treatment in Singapore

Have you been getting unbearably itchy bed bugs bites causing sleepless nights? Or have you been noticing skin rashes that pop up from nowhere when you wake up every morning? If the answer is yes, then you might be facing a bed bug infestation.

You might be wondering what the source of a bed bug infestation is? And where do the bugs come from? The answer may surprise you. Humans bring in bed bug infestations, so we need to take some responsibility. Someone may pick up bed bugs from a hotel room, theatre, a plane or even from public transport. They climb onto your clothes or sneak into your luggage bags. Eventually, the beg bugs find a way into your home.

A bed bug infestation may be a headache to a lot of people. However, with some understanding, you can prevent or get rid of bed bugs infestations.

common types of bed bugs in singapore

Types of Bed Bugs in Singapore

There are two commonly found species of bed bugs in Singapore:

Cimex lectularius has a worldwide distribution, especially in temperate regions. Cimex Hemipterus is a common species found in tropical and subtropical areas including Singapore. Both species feed on human blood and are important pests to the travel and hospitality industries.

What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?

  • Oval-shaped body
  • Reddish-brown colour

Learn more about the bed bugs

Life Cycle and Biology

A female bed bug can lay 200 to 250 eggs in her lifetime and the eggs hatch in 6 to 10 days. The life cycle of a bed bug can be completed in as little as three weeks.

Bed bug larva undergoes incomplete metamorphosis. It takes five stages before a larva matures into an adult bed bug. A blood meal is needed each time before a nymph moults into the next stage. Bed bugs are opportunistic feeders. They consume as much blood as possible from you until they are fully engorged.

A tropical bed bug can live for up to 100 days while a common bed bug can live for up to 1 year. As much as they need blood meals for growth, bed bugs were found to be able to survive a long period without blood meals.

Have you ever wondered how a tiny bed bug can find its way to you? Bed bugs are attracted to the carbon dioxide and body heat given off by human bodies. A higher concentration of carbon dioxide due to human presence stimulates bed bugs to feed. As they approach the human host, they are attracted by the body heat of the host.

bed bug tips

Hazards

Unlike many other pests, bed bugs do not transmit diseases to humans nor cause structural damage to buildings. However, bed bugs feed on human blood. Their presence can still have severe impacts on humans.

1. Allergic reactions

Bed bug bites are not harmful to humans. Some people do not even develop reactions toward the bites. However, people that develop allergic reactions to bed bug bites may have painful swelling or intense itching around the bites. In this scenario, medical attention will be needed to ease the symptoms of allergy.

2. Effect on mental health

Bed bug bites can be extremely itchy to some people. The itch from the bites can cause insomnia and even anxiety in cases of heavy infestations. Bed bugs may cause an affected individual to have sleepless nights, and the lack of sleep can further affect mental health and the ability to carry out normal daily activities.

Can bed bugs cause post traumatic stress disorder?

3. Property damage

Bed bugs do not cause structural damage like termites and rats, but they can cause cosmetic damage to the property. In a heavily infested unit, blood speckles and the droppings of bed bugs can be found all over the unit including the mattresses, bed frames and walls. Owners need to replace the items if the stains are not removable. Also, repainting the walls can be costly.

4. Economic and reputation damage

Bed bugs are a serious threat to the hospitality industry as well as the transport industry. Hotels suffer a loss when the bed bug infestation decreases their capacity to accept guests. The cost to treat bed bug infestations is usually a significant amount that can badly affect a company.

Besides hotel rooms, bed bugs can also be found on planes, buses and trains, causing significant losses to the businesses. A business’s reputation can be badly affected by bed bugs. Numerous lawsuits may also come from bed bug infestations.

signs of a bed bugs infestation

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Here are some signs that tell you that you have a bed bug infestation.

1. Bites

One of the most apparent signs that indicate a bed bug infestation is the presence of bite signs. It might be difficult to differentiate between the bites caused by bed bugs and other insects such as mosquitoes.

A bed bug usually bites more than once, so it is likely to leave numerous bites that cluster around several exposed parts of the body such as the face, neck, arms and legs.

2. Blood speckles on bedding and wall

Bed bugs hide in the corners and edges of a mattress, as well as other locations with cracks and crevices, including the wall. During the night, as bed bugs leave their hiding place to forage, you might accidentally crush them during your sleep. Crushing them causes their bodies to rupture, leaving behind blood stains on the mattress or wall.

3. Dark spots on mattress and wall

The droppings of bed bugs consist of digested blood which resembles black pepper flakes. They are commonly found near the hiding sites of the bed bugs so be sure to check the corners and edges of your mattresses and bed frames if you suspect a bed bug infestation.

4. Sickly sweet odour in the room

In places heavily infested with bed bugs, a pungent smell can be detected. People can have a different perception of how the odour smells. The odour is caused by the pheromones released by the bed bugs. Thus, the odour intensifies as the number of bed bugs present increases.

5. Cast skins of bed bugs

As mentioned earlier, bed bugs need to moult (cast off their skin) to grow. The sighting of cast skins (also known as exoskeletons) indicates the presence of bed bug infestations. The sightings of live bed bugs are also possible.

prevent and get rid of bed bugs

Tips to Prevent and Get Rid of Bed Bugs

1. Check your bed and sofa

While bed bugs are mostly found around your bed, they can hide around other locations such as the sofa too. Bed bugs locate themselves near the seams and zippers of mattresses and cushions.

They can also infest the gaps between cushions as well as the frames of beds and sofas. Inspecting the beds and sofas helps to detect bed bug infestations. This allows early action before the infestations worsen.

2. Check your luggage

Another major source of bed bug infestation is infested accommodation. As you are enjoying your vacation in resorts or hotels, bed bugs from an infested room may climb into your luggage and follow you back home. Inspect your luggage as you are unpacking them may help you prevent a bed bug infestation.

3. Be mindful when using shared laundry services

Launderettes and shared laundry services are convenient for people living far from home. However, the convenience does come with a risk of exposing yourself to bed bug infestations. Bed bugs may hide in the shared equipment, so do check your washed clothes for signs of bed bugs after using shared laundry services.

4. Check secondhand furniture and clothes

Buying pre-loved items are a great way to save costs and care for the environment. However, sometimes you are getting more than what you wish for as bed bugs may hide in items such as furniture, clothing and even stuffed toys.

Bed bugs can survive without a blood meal for up to 4 months, so they can even be found in items that have been left unattended. Make sure you check the items before you use them again to prevent bed bug infestations at home.

DIY Methods to Prevent and Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Getting rid of bed bugs on your own is not an easy task. However, some methods can reduce their presence or even remove them entirely in cases of light infestations.

1. Wash and dry in high temperature

Bed bugs can be killed when exposed to temperatures higher than 60°C. Washing or drying your mattress linen and clothes at high temperatures is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs.

2. Vacuuming

Vacuuming can remove the adult bed bugs, the nymphs and even the eggs. Focus on the potential hiding spots of bed bugs such as wall joints, cracks and crevices. Thoroughly vacuum the bed, including mattresses and bed frames to remove bed bugs.

Vacuuming together with washing linens at high temperatures may help to eliminate the bed bugs. However, if the situation does not improve, professional pest treatment is required to help solve your problem.

3. Use bedbug-proof encasements

Bed bug-proof encasements restrict the movements of bed bugs, thus preventing new infestations as well as trapping existing bed bugs. They are available in the market and work well to keep bed bugs off your bed as long as you install them correctly.

7 Tips on How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

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How to get rid of bed bugs

Professional Bed Bug Treatment

Residual insecticidal treatment is one of the treatment methods to get rid of bed bugs. The chemicals and products used by pest management professionals are different from those that are available over the counter (less effective). The application of residual insecticides targets the areas where bed bugs are most likely to hide and reside, such as:

  • Seams of beds
  • Folds of sofas
  • Wall crevices

Pro tip: Bed bugs are best to be treated before they become much more severe problem.

Killem Pest has employed steaming treatment as an alternative solution for bed bug control.

It is an environmentally friendly solution as it resolves and eliminates bed bugs and their eggs without the use of any insecticide.

The superheated dry steam from the specially designed appliance can be steamed up to 180°C, which directly kills the bed bugs and eggs upon contact. The steam generated will not cause damage to any surface or fabric. Instead, it can help to eradicate viruses, bacteria, germs and fungi on the treated surface.

Bed bug problems should not be underestimated. They are best solved before they become much more severe. In the case of a serious bed bug infestation, treatment methods may vary and can become more challenging. It is vital to identify the root cause of bed bug problems, recognize the source to avoid continuously bringing them back from outside. Lastly, help from a professional pest control company is strongly advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, bed bugs are visible to the human eye. They typically have an oval-shaped body and reddish-brown colour.

Bed bugs are not considered dangerous, however, their bites may cause an allergic reaction which may require medical help.

Yes, bed bugs are common “guests” in Singapore homes and can be brought in on surfaces like clothes, furniture or bedding.


Fumigation Treatment

Fumigation Treatment: All You Need to Know

Bed Bugs

Fumigation Treatment

The never-ending battle between humans and pests has led to the rapid development of pest management services in Singapore, including fumigation treatments. The wide-ranging pests and their nature of behaviour can interfere with human activities.

The difficulties of controlling pests – due to the limitation on certain treatments’ application – has led us to using fumigation treatment to deal with severe pest issues.

Fumigation treatment in Singapore is usually carried out in the freight, shipping, storage and food manufacturing industries. All fumigators must apply for training and a licence from the NEA (National Environmental Agency). Beyond that, pest management companies are also responsible for the application of fumigation permits before they are allowed to carry out fumigation treatments in Singapore.

Fumigants in Singapore

Fumigation treatment is a unique form of action for pest management.

It is usually adopted by pest management companies and clients when there are no other feasible forms of control to the target pest. However, most fumigants such as hydrogen cyanide, methyl bromide and hydrogen phosphide are toxic to pests as well as humans. Nevertheless, fumigation treatment has effective killing effects and has become an inevitable pest management method in Singapore.

How to carry out safe pest control with children and pets?

Mode of Action of Fumigation Treatment

Fumigation treatment is a process of release or dispersal of toxic chemicals onto the targeted pests. It can be very fast as the volatile nature of fumigants is able to pass through inaccessible spaces. It has almost no limit to penetrate any object as long as tiny pores are present on the surface of the treated object.  In other words, the entire structure is secured with the fumigation treatment. The toxic chemicals enter the pest body mainly through its breathing system.

fumigation treatment in singapore

Target Pests in Fumigation Treatment

In general, fumigation treatment is helpful in dealing with all types of pests including stored product pests, wood borers, subterranean and drywood termites, bed bugs, cockroaches and even rats. It is often carried out in enclosed shipping containers, vessels and warehouses.

Fumigation on smaller structures such as infested wood and furniture is usually done for targeting drywood termites and wood borers. In this case, infested wood has to be removed and placed in an air-tight space to allow the proceeding of fumigation treatment.

What Pest Control Treatment Methods Can You Use To Eradicate Pests?

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methods to eradicate pests

Disadvantages of Fumigation

One main disadvantage of using fumigation treatment is that there is no residual effect on the treated structure. Therefore, no residues remain in the treated spaces once the areas have been ventilated and cleaned properly. Hence, it does not help in protecting the treated structure from future pest infestations.

Since the knockdown effect of target pests depends on its respiration rate, low temperature of the treated environment may make the pest less susceptible. This is due to the fact that the lower the temperature of the surrounding, the lower the respiration rate of the pest.

Pro Tip: It's better to hire professional pest management services to ensure the fumigation treatment effectiveness.

Factors Contributing to Fumigation Failure

Fumigation failures are common. It can be due to the improper application and pest resistance. In addition, inappropriate choice of fumigants and loss of fumigant through leakage in treated spaces can also affect the effectiveness of the treatment. Hence, a leak detector is sometimes utilized before the treatment.

Final Note

Fumigation treatment, while seen to be effective because of its volatile and gaseous nature to target pests, can actually be harmful to human and pets. The excessive use and misuse of the fumigants not only pose harmful effects on human’s health but cause adverse effects on the treated commodity and property.

The use of it must be handled by trained and certified fumigators as they will have enough knowledge on its application and precaution steps before and after the treatment.

Careful planning and application must be adopted before the treatment is carried out. The appropriate choice and use of fumigants are vital as it may cause fumigation failures and hazards to the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fumigation treatment is usually required in freight, shipping, storage and food manufacturing industries. Businesses in these industries must avoid the spread of pests and minimize the risk of damage to the goods or people’s health.

Fumigation treatment usually lasts for years, but it is recommended to have regular inspections to keep the areas protected.

It is important to remove plants and pets before fumigation, and also all the food and medicines that are open and/or are not sealed.


How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

7 Tips on How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Bed Bugs

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small little insects that are capable of giving you sleepless nights while leaving behind itchy bites on your body.

It takes 3 weeks for bed bugs to develop from eggs to adults.

During their development, the immature stages (nymphs) must take a blood meal before they can grow to the next developmental stage.

In the past, bed bugs have been associated with poor living conditions but their infestations have spread like wildfire in cities around the globe. This phenomenon is contributed by the shift in pesticide usage globalisation. The thriving travel and tourism industry further promotes and increases the rate at which bed bugs are spread all over the world.

Get more facts about bed bugs

Bed bug infestation at home can be a nightmare but here are some things you can do to keep bed bugs away from you and your family members.

How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

1. Check Your Bed and Sofa

Bed bugs bite you without you noticing them. They do so when you are sound asleep, or even when you are sitting on the sofa enjoying your favorite movie. Check the gaps between cushions as well as the seams and zippers of the cushion covers to look for signs of bed bug infestation.

If you see black spots at the corners and edges of the cushions or mattresses, you probably have bed bugs lurking around you.

Inspecting your hotel room before unpacking your luggage can save you from the troubles of bed bug infestation.

2. Check Your Luggage

Do pay attention to your luggage when you come back from vacation to look out for any unwanted guests that secretly followed you back home. Bed bugs in an infested room may crawl into your suitcases and hitch a ride to their new home.

3. Wash and Dry With High Heat

Exposing bed bugs to a temperature higher than 60°C for 15 minutes will kill them. Washing or drying your mattress linen and clothes under high temperature kills the bed bugs. High temperatures have been known to kill bed bugs effectively, therefore steamers that produce high-temperature dry steam are used by professional pest control service providers as a greener and safer approach to eliminate bed bugs.

The Ultimate Guide to Bed Bugs Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

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bed bugs treatment in singapore

4. Be Mindful When Using Shared Laundry Services

A launderette and shared laundry services are convenient for people living far from home or people who do not do their laundry at home. However, the convenience does come with a price in which you will have to share the place where you wash your clothes with other people and even strangers. Although this seems to be not a problem to most people under most circumstances, there is a risk that you might pick up a bed bug infestation from the laundry.

5. Check Secondhand Furniture and Clothes

Pre-loved items may seem like a good bargain but always be sure to check furniture, clothing and even stuffed toys for any bed bugs hiding inside those items. Bed bugs are able to survive without a blood meal for up to 4 months so it is possible for them to hang around even at items that have been left unattended.

6. Use Bed Bug-Proof Encasement for Your Matresses

Bed bug-proof encasements for mattresses are available in the market and they work well to keep bed bugs off your bed as long as you install them correctly. They trap existing bed bugs and prevent the infestation of newly introduced bed bugs by restricting their movements. With them, you will be able to sleep soundly without having to worry about bed bug bites.

Pro Tip: Don’t panic and don't throw out all of your belongings because most of them can be treated and saved.

7. How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs: Seek Help From a Professional

Professional pest control managers are the best people you can look for to manage the bed bug infestation at your house. Professional pest control operators will conduct effective treatment after careful inspection. Conventional treatment methods for bed bug infestations include gassing and residual spraying method. Gassing delivers fast knockdown to the bed bugs and residual spraying chemical kills bed bugs that come into contact with the chemical after the treatment. This is important as the eggs of the bed bugs can usually survive the treatment so the residual effect of the chemical kills the newly-hatched bed bugs.

Bed bug infestation is a growing concern around the world.

If you have them, it is important to know how to get rid of bed bugs. It should be taken seriously as it can cause stress to the victims even though bed bugs do not transmit diseases. Since prevention is better than cure, being mindful in daily life can help to prevent a bed bugs infestation and keep them away from you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bed bugs can come from various infested areas or surfaces, or used furniture. They can often be found in many forms of transportation or any public places and can travel with you from lounge areas, airports or airplanes.

Typically bed bugs hide in mattresses or couches, in the cracks in the bed frame, or near the bed. You can also find bed bugs in other furniture or on the walls (wallpapers, pictures, curtains, window frames, etc).

It is hard to get rid of bed bugs as they hide well and reproduce quickly: their number can grow exponentially in a couple of days.


pest control stories

Killem Encounters: Strange Pest Control Stories

Bed Bugs

pest control stories

The pest control industry has seen many developments in eradicating pests that carry deadly diseases and preventing further infestations.

In Singapore, maintaining high standards of sanitation is important as this stops the spread of diseases and ensures that the health of its citizens is protected.

The Singapore government is also uncompromising when the people’s health and safety are in question, making sure to educate the public with steps on preventing pest infestations and enforcing rules and regulations on individuals and business entities.

The importance is not lost on the people living in Singapore but some may have taken extreme measures just to be sure. What follows is a series of events that have unfolded in the careers of Killem’s Pest Control Officers (PCOs) to be out of the ordinary, some even strange.

Strange Pest Control Stories_Sparrow

Encounter 1: The Bird that Wouldn’t Fly (Away)

In Singapore, common bird species such as the Sparrow and Mynah are less of a nuisance than rodents or cockroaches; nevertheless, they may still be a pest and nuisance as they can feed on human food and their droppings are toxic. They can be found near food and beverage (F&B) establishments, especially open-air restaurants and hawker centres. When they do cause a problem, however, it is best to call a professional.

One such call was attended by Killem and it was rightfully dealt with.

The pest in question was a sparrow that had made a well-known fast-food establishment it’s home for almost a year. Before Killem got involved, many methods were used to get the sparrow away from the premises. None of the methods proved to be successful. 50 glue boards and bird repellent had been placed by the previous pest control company, in the hopes of capturing the sparrow, but to no avail.

Killem’s PCOs had accessed the situation quickly and structured a solution based on previous experiences. Target pest-specific pesticides were placed to capture the sparrow alive. In less than a month, the sparrow had been caught alive and the establishment was free of potential hazards brought about by the sparrow. What still remains a question though is how the sparrow had escaped the countless glue boards with baits and the other PCOs for a year.

Strange Pest Control Stories_Stressed

Encounter 2: Unsettled Settlers| Pest Paranoia | Pest Phobia| Entomophobia: The Fear of Insects | Fear of Pests: On a Subconscious Level

Not everyone is fond of insects and other creatures that are considered pests. In extreme cases, where people develop a fear of these pests or even subconsciously have an aversion to them, many avoid leaving their house or even believe that they constantly have pests crawling on them. Refer to our previous blog post on Entomophobia and Bed Bugs PTSD for more information on such conditions.

Understanding the needs and dilemmas of a client is as or even more important than the solution itself.

Pro Fact: Pests are dealt with by using equipment and pesticides based on past experience and knowledge of pest control professionals.

Clients, however, are a completely different case and one such client had given the PCOs at Killem a unique experience as well.

An eye-opening experience was when one of Killem’s PCOs attended to a pest control service call engaged by an expatriate from South America who had just moved to Singapore. She had mentioned during her initial call to Killem that in her new home, she had already seen many cockroaches running around the house. When the PCOs arrived at the site, they were greeted at the premises with one dead American cockroach.

Upon further investigation, they were unable to find any other cockroaches but carried out a precautionary treatment.

The client later mentioned that though the PCO was unable to find more cockroaches, she constantly felt as though giant cockroaches were chasing her with the intention of eating her alive. The client painted a very vivid picture to the PCO, one they claim they are still unable to forget.

Strange Pest Control Stories_Roach

Our client’s well being is of utmost concern so our PCO reassured the client that there were no other cockroaches to be found and she could safely set aside her fears. They also made sure to ask if she knew someone in Singapore so that she had someone to talk to and if she had any further pest concerns, Killem would always try it is best to address and deal with them.

Pest infestations have been known to cause mental health issues, from paranoia to depression. It is best to treat such cases with as much importance as with a case of actual pest infestation.

The Strangest Pest Control Stories Ever Heard

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Encounter 3: The Bed Bugs that Didn’t Bite

Most people know that bed bugs are notorious in causing very itchy bites. They prey on human blood and leave red bite marks on those sleeping on infested mattresses. For bed bugs to survive and reach maturity, they require a blood source. For more information on bed bugs, check out our bed bugs page and previous blog interviewing Dr How Yee Fatt who provided us with insights on bed bugs. So is it possible for someone to sleep on an infested bed and not get bitten?

The PCOs at Killem once came across a client who claimed that he was never once bitten by the bed bugs that infested his mattress. After taking one look at the said mattress, the PCOs thought otherwise.

Killem were tasked to perform general pest control services and inspection of a dormitory unit for foreign workers.

The unit housed a few hundred people of different nationalities living under one roof, each with their own bed. Upon inspection of one of the beds, a PCO had found, what he believed were more than a hundred bed bugs all over the mattress. The person sleeping on the mattress was surprisingly also shocked at the revelation. The PCO began to question the person who slept on the bed, asking how he was able to sleep without being interrupted with bites or itches. The person simply replied that he was never once bitten by the bed bugs.

Bedbug Removal on Bed

This brought about some discussions among the roommates and our PCOs as to how someone can be unbitten and oblivious to bed bugs of that quantity. After further research undertaken by Killem, it turns out that it is possible that someone shows no signs of bed bug bites. If the person bitten has no allergic reaction, it is still extremely unlikely that someone sharing a mattress with 100 other bed bugs is not bitten at all.

Learn more about the bed bugs

Strange as it may seem or sound, pest problems should not be underestimated or mistaken to be a minor issue. They are best solved in the form of prevention methods even before they take form to be much more serious. At Killem, we take our PCOs, clients and what they have to say, seriously, even if they sound rather peculiar.


can bed bugs cause post traumatic stress disorder

Can Bed Bugs Cause Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Bed Bugs

can bed bugs cause post traumatic stress disorder

In one of our previous posts, “Killem Pest Profile Series: What You Need to Know About Bed Bugs”, we looked at bed bugs and how bed bug infestations can be treated. Did you know that bed bugs are capable of causing significant emotional and psychological harm to an individual? Read on to find out more.

What are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are an extremely common pest that often infests places where many people come into contact with each other.

They are known for roosting in the beds of homes, hotels, motels, hostels, cruise ships, and many other places, though they will often also live in other furniture and the walls.

How to get rid of bed bugs?

They are small, brown, oval-shaped, and recognizable because of the sweet yet musty odor they produce. Full-grown males are larger than females, and range from 2.5mm to 4.5mm long. Humans frequently develop rashes from their bites, which can lead to greater problems like skin infections.

A bedbug

Bed bugs are parasitic and will feed on the blood of any animals they come in contact with. They are notoriously difficult to eliminate, and it is recommended that anyone facing an infestation call an exterminator to remove them all.

Bedbug bites

What is PTSD?

PTSD is the abbreviation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, a mental health condition that a person develops after a traumatic incident or event. Some of the symptoms include severe anxiety, nightmares, lashing out at others when stressed, excessive anger, or uncontrollable thoughts about the person’s source of stress.

One of the most common examples of PTSD is demonstrated by soldiers who returned home from catastrophic wars like WWII. Because of their constant stress and the terrifying nature of the events, many soldiers would suffer flashbacks or panic when they heard something that sounded like gunfire. For example, some former soldiers would tackle their family members and try to protect them because they heard popcorn popping and thought it was shellfire.

The Ultimate Guide to Bed Bugs Prevention, Treatment and Control in Singapore

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So, how is it possible for bed bugs and PTSD to be related? According to a recent psychological study, people dealing with bed bug infestations reported similar symptoms to people with PTSD. People reported severe anxiety, traumatic flashbacks to finding the bugs in their homes, and fitful slumber often characterized by nightmares.

The mental health of the people faced with bed bugs was unknown prior to the infestation, but up to 81% in one study experienced similar symptoms to PTSD sufferers.

Can having bed bugs cause PTSD after they are gone?

Have you managed to get rid of the bed bugs? Though that is very good, it does not necessarily mean that you cannot experience PTSD after the bed bugs have left. Having a bed bug infestation can be a traumatizing experience with a long-lasting impact on you and your family. It can keep bringing up anxious feelings. Getting the right support is key to overcoming PTSD resulting from bed bug infestations, even after the bed bugs have gone.

Human Fear from bed bugs

How do you get over bed bug PTSD?

There are a few options available to get over bed bug PTSD, but the three greatest ones are:

  • Therapy
  • Educating oneself about bed bugs and realizing it does not mean a person is dirty
  • Regular pest control checkups to ensure they don’t return

The first option may seem obvious but is helpful. Speaking to a therapist helps people feel calmer and express their anxiety to a neutral outlet without fear of judgement. Proper education is related to this first option.

The more people learn about bed bugs, the more they realize that the pests didn’t invade their home because a person is dirty.

Instead, bed bugs are extremely common in cities and have been on the rise in recent decades due to the ease of travel.

Pro Tip: Have regular inspections to reduce the stress and anxiety related to bed bug infestation.

Possible causes of bed-bug induced PTSD

One of the biggest causes of bed bug-induced PTSD is the lack of peace of mind. By having regular, thorough inspections, a person is able to see that there are no hidden bed bugs in their home and can start working on their symptoms of anxiety. It is recommended that people pursue this option in addition to counselling to help treat their nerves. Either way, there are many things a person can do to help them cope with bed bug-induced PTSD.

Preventative Measures for Bed Bugs PTSD

Preventative measures to deal with bed bugs PTSD

As we now know, bed bug infestations can have a huge impact on people, leaving a trail of traumatic memories for some. To prevent having to deal with bed bug-induced PTSD the best thing to do is to take preventative steps to reduce the risk of a bed bug infestation.

  • Keep your home clean and tidy
  • Vacuum regularly
  • Wash bedding and clothing in hot water
  • Dry bedding and clothing on high heat
  • Seal off any possible entry points to your home

These measures will help give you peace of mind and a nice home to live in, bed bug-free.

If you are traveling, though, you need to pay extra attention. Bed bugs are unwanted visitors in many hotels. To reduce the risk of bed bug exposure, inspect your room thoroughly, especially in and around the bedding, for any noticeable signs of bed bugs.

Conclusion

People who have experienced bed bug infestations in Singapore can contact Killem Pest, as we offer professional bed bug control in Singapore and can schedule regular inspections for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bed bugs can be mentally harmful as they can lead to depression, PTSD, obsessive behavior, insomnia, and anxiety.

Naturally, people affected by bed bug infestations can feel nervous and paranoid, or have nightmares and flashbacks of the infestation. But don’t feel desperate as there are strategies that can help you overcome these symptoms.

To get over bed bug trauma it is important to talk to the therapist and learn emotion-focused coping strategies. Regular pest control inspections can also provide benefits and support your recovery.


what you need to know about bed bugs

Killem Pest Profile Series: What You Need to Know About Bed Bugs

Bed Bugs

what you need to know about bed bugs

What you need to know about bed bugs. Bed bugs are some of the most difficult pests to remove once they have taken hold in your home. Unlike other pests like mosquitoes or rodents, bed bugs do not actually spread disease. However, they are a very big nuisance because bits from bed bugs cause itching, which can lead to excessive scratching and thereby skin infection.

Being bitten by beg bugs at night also causes a loss of sleep.

They can get into the linen on the beds, which is how they got their name. However, you should not be fooled into believing that they only infest beds. They can also get into the carpets, curtains, and even clothing.

The Biology of Bed Bugs

Bed Bugs Close Up

Bed bugs have a brownish color before they have fed. After feeding, on the blood of animals and people, they turn a red color. The baby bed bugs are very difficult to see, as they do not have much color to them at all.

These six-legged creatures can reach up to a quarter of an inch long when they are adults.

They will mature in about 21 days, and they can live for several months without feeding. Females of the species can lay one to five eggs each day, and this is how they can spread and infest an area so quickly.

Get more facts about the bed bugs

How to Check for a Bed Bug Infestation

How do you know if you have a bed bug infestation? Some of the most common signs are:

  • Your children wake up and have skin that itches
  • You might also notice that there are small blood stains on your pillowcases and sheets from when the bed bugs have fed
  • You may see the shed skin and eggs from the bed bugs
  • You may even see the adults, even though they typically come out to feed on blood at night

Bed Bug Bites

What to Do When You Have a Bed Bug Infestation

Getting rid of bed bugs by yourself can result in many failed attempts. It is extremely difficult to do, and you would be much better served by having professionals in Singapore come in with the right equipment to take care of things.

There are several proven methods that can be used for treating an infestation and getting rid of bed bugs.

7 Tips on How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

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bed blanket and pillows

Spray and Gas Treatment

A very popular and effective option is to use spray and gas treatment. This utilises dual spraying action, and it makes it possible to cover a large area in a short period. It can eliminate the bed bugs, as well as the eggs they have already laid.

Steaming

Another option is steaming. One of the benefits of this method is that the steaming can occur even if there are people and pets in the home at the time. This makes it a fast and efficient option, and it also happens to be environmentally friendly.

If you have signs of a bed bug infestation, do not wait to get the help you need. Get effective and professional bed bug control from Killem as we can take care of the problem right away.

get rid of bed bugs naturally infographic

Bed bug home remedies

Let’s look at some natural remedies for dealing with bed bugs. A common bed bug home remedy is essential oil bed bug spray. Commonly used oils for creating a natural bed bug killer spray are:

  • Peppermint
  • Thyme
  • Clove

The bed bug home remedy not only effectively eliminates bed bugs, it also provides additional protection to various sensitive spots around your home. This includes bedding, carpets, fabrics of all kinds and any furniture.

To use the bed bug spray, all you need is a spray bottle with distilled water and 10-20 drops of essential oils. Spray it on all prone areas and reapply 2-3 days later. This bed bug home remedy is an effective and natural way to get rid of bed bugs without the use of chemicals.

Other natural products to help get rid of bed bugs include:

  • Tea tree oil
  • Lavender oil
  • Cinnamon
  • Powdered Pepper
  • Lemon
  • Peppermint
  • Neem oil

How to Get Rid of Bed Bug Bite Marks

Bed bug bite marks can be an annoying reminder of a bed bug infestation. It is important to resist the urge to scratch when treating bed bug bite marks, as it can lead to secondary infections or prolonged marks.

Some other steps involved in bed bug bite marks treatment and removal include:

  • Cleaning the affected area with mild soap and water to prevent any potential infections.
  • Using natural remedies like aloe vera or tea tree oil to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation.
  • Using creams containing hydrocortisone or antihistamines to reduce itching and help in the healing process.
  • For more severe cases, consulting a dermatologist is recommended

Remember, consistent care and patience are key in gradually fading and removing the bed bug marks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bed bugs are visible to the naked eye: adult bed bugs’ colour ranges from red to dark, they are oval in shape and look similar to the apple seed. Immature bed bugs are smaller in size and translucent whitish-yellow in color.

To spot the presence of bed bugs, check for the bites on your skin, reddish stains or dark spots on bed sheets or mattresses, or the presence of live or dead bugs and their eggs.

Bed bug bites appear on the parts of your skin that are not covered during the night, and look similar to mosquito bites – swollen red spots that often itch.