Where did bed bugs come from?

Originally from tropical climates, bed bugs were almost completely eliminated in the US in the 1940s. Their modern day comeback is most likely due to easier and more frequent international travel. While it seems as though the bed bug problem is growing awareness has just increased. Still, most of us don’t like the idea of something creeping on us in our sleep or using us for their meal.


bed bugsPest ControlHow Bed Bugs Travel 
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Bed bugs are excellent travelers. They slip into luggage, folded clothes, briefcases, shoes, furniture – virtually anything you can bring into your home. Bed bugs are found in hotels, airplanes, movie theaters – pretty much anywhere people are. And we are their transportation. While bed bugs have been found on pets, their preferred meal and transport is human.

Who is at risk

Anyone is at risk for getting bed bugs, however, those who spends a lot of time sleeping where other people have slept are at a greater risk and should develop a bed bug checking “ritual” for checking into their hotel room.

Hotel Pro Tip: Keep luggage raised and in the bathroom

Check the linens, mattress and behind the headboard for bed bugs or their droppings. Also check the nightstand, drawers, telephone and even books. Bed bugs will most likely be within 15 feet of the bed (but not always). If you want to hang your clothes or use the dresser, be sure to inspect carefully. If you see any signs of bed bugs, alert the hotel staff immediately.

In the Neighborhood

Another place we are seeing bed bugs being transported from one location to the next is from yard sales.

Pay particular attention to:

  • Bed Frames/Mattresses
  • End Tables/DressersInfested with Bed Bugs? Call The Bug Guy OKC
  • Upholstered furniture
  • Clothing/Shoes
  • Stuffed Animals
  • Mirrors and picture frames

Does a sale seem too good to be true? See a yard with a filled with enough furniture to fill a house? This could be a sign of someoneistock_000015988333_large-500x406 wanting to ditch their infested furniture on you and make a buck. It isn’t very nice but it does happen.

Someone could still sell their furniture without realizing they have a bedbug problem. That is why it is very important to inspect items carefully for bugs, casings or droppings.

What you can do if you suspect you have bed bugs

Save any bed bugs you find. Don’t assume you will find a lot – you may not! But if you do see one or more, collect them in a closed jar and put them in the freezer. You may need to show them to a pest control company and/or your landlord. Do not begin removing furniture and other belongings from your home or apartment. Doing so will only cause them to spread out. Contact your landlord if they make the pest control decisions for your dwelling or call The Bug Guy to get rid of your bed bugs.