Bed Bugs vs. Dust Mites

Here are quite a few misconceptions still surrounding bed bugs, even though their resurgence has been making headlines in recent years. It’s time to put an end to the myth that dust mites and bed bugs are the same. This could not be further from the truth.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are tiny allergens. They are so tiny in fact that they need to be magnified just to be positively identified as a dust mite. Dust mites eat organic detritus, including flakes of shed human skin, which could be where the confusion begins.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs, fully grown, are a little smaller than an apple seed. They’re visible to the naked eye, but since the bugs are excellent at hiding and seek, they may be present unbeknownst to the people sharing the bed. Bed bugs consume human blood and are notoriously difficult to get rid of. They are a true pest, not just an allergy-causing organism in the dust.

How to Remove Dust Mites

Dust mites can be controlled at home with no professional assistance required!

• Wash sheets and bed linens often, either once a week or every other week
• Keep your mattress fresh with baking soda, essential oil and a vacuum
• Use dusters that utilize static cling to dust your home thoroughly once a week

Basically, thorough and frequent dusting will help your dust mite issue. Consulting an allergist may also be a good idea if you think dust mites are contributing to health issues.

Professional Bed Bug Treatment 

Bed bugs, on the other hand, are absolutely not a do-it-yourself pest.

People who have tried to rid their homes of bed bugs without the help of professionals wasted thousands of dollars replacing their furniture to still have bed bugs, set their houses on fire, and even died from improper use of garden pesticides on their beds.

American Pest has multiple options available to safely and effectively rid your home or business of bed bugs.  Contact us today to learn more about our effective bed bug control options.