- Bedbugs leave small, itchy red welts on their human victims. Unlike mosquitoes that may bite ankles, arms and other exposed areas of skin, bedbugs can bite anywhere on the body, including the trunk, thighs and neck.
- Homeowners may exterminate bedbugs by removing and washing bedding in extremely hot water, vacuuming floors and throwing bedding in a hot dryer. Keep in mind that bedbugs are not a sign of poor housecleaning or unsanitary conditions; they can affect anyone. Bedbugs are opportunists, climbing aboard unsuspecting victims in movie theaters, hotels, airports and anywhere large groups of people congregate.
- Bedbugs are difficult to eradicate, according to Michael Raupp, an entomologist at the University of Maryland. For all but the most minor infestations, he recommends homeowners call a professional pest control service. The pest control service may take several weeks to completely eradicate bedbugs.