http://bedbugger.com/forum/ Bed bug support forums en Sun, 22 Nov 2009 04:29:52 +0000 http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62774 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:06:18 +0000 buggedout16 62774@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>:-) thanks cilecto. you keep making me feel better, I appreciate it.</p> <p>I guess it's gonna be till Monday before the PCO comes, since they haven't come yet and the landlord's office closes @ 2pm on Saturdays. I guess I should have got the number for the PC company myself, but I wasn't thinking. I did leave my number (and name; it's a huge complex and they don't really know their tenants). So hopefully that helps. I gave them the sample I had; they said they would give it to the PCO when he/she comes. I suppose I should have hung onto it, but at least I do still have the photos, in case it gets lost (surely not!) </p> <p>Guess I should get back to sorting/washing. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62772 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 13:55:25 +0000 cilecto 62772@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>&gt; if I have been to any hotels lately(no), </p> <p>AND IT'S NONE OF THEIR <a href="mailto:F@IN">F@IN</a> BUSINESS. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62767 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 10:47:00 +0000 buggedout16 62767@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I just brought my "specimen" down to the landlord's office- the lady working there this AM is really nice so that helped, kept saying she was sorry- I was afraid they were going to treat me like dirt or blame me which she didn't. She called and left a message with the pest control company and they will either come by today or, if they can't, Monday morning. She also had to call her manager who asked how long I'd lived there (over 4 years), if I have been to any hotels lately(no), stuff like that. I could hear her (the manager's) "Oh GOD!!" over the phone. Haha- that's my sentiments exactly too right now. I guess I will start putting the laundry and such in bags for now and start doing some wash. I guess that is the best place to start? But not the sheets or anything, right, until the pest control people see them? (I put tape down all around my bed last night but didn't "catch" anything, guess I'll see how it goes) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/being-bit-never-found-the-bugs#post-62765 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:26:47 +0000 bugfreebed 62765@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>PCO' s should never spray in a situation like this without solid prof of the problem at hand . It drives me nuts to hear these stories of people who spend hundreds of dollars and count less hours of prep assuming its BB without any prof . Early detection is important with BB but we should never start treatment with some solid prof a casting, eggs , bed bugs , something !<br /> bugged if you get the chance please let us know how this turns out for you . </p> <p>ROB </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/being-bit-never-found-the-bugs#post-62759 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 02:21:21 +0000 bait 62759@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Your story is so very very familiar. </p> <p>Hope things have gotten better for you. You seemed pretty distraught, then we didn't hear from you again. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62742 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:04:01 +0000 wchicago 62742@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hi bugged</p> <p>i'm so SO sorry. these things suck. that said - you will get through it, you know a heckuva lot more than i did when i started, that's for sure.<br /> i want to second cilecto's comment about taking your time to find an expert PCO in bedbugs. i panicked, signed the very first person &lt;the one who told me i had bedbugs - i had mistakenly thought i had fleas&gt; and didn't do any interviews or anything. take your time. you have the knowledge to choose a good one. i like my PCO, but i don't think he is the most effective one out there (for a couple of reasons) - if i had the knowledge you have, and the presence of mind that you WILL have to interview them and choose the best, i bet i'd be done with bedbugs by now. so breathe, know you'll come through this A-OK, and take your time to chose an expert.<br /> and again, my sympathies. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62739 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:49:55 +0000 cilecto 62739@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Sorry, Bugged. Please hang onto your furniture unless you absolutely don't want it or a competent tech says it can't be treated. If you do toss, please wrap, to minimize dropping bugs in your halls, complicating the situation.<br /> Group hug! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62737 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:38:57 +0000 Nobugsonme 62737@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>BB_Slayer - 1 hour ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62727">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> There's no reason to be "terrified"... these things are less annoying than mosquitos since they can't fly.</p></blockquote> <p>Um, seriously? That seems kind of insensitive. The bites are not the only thing people worry about. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62736 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:38:18 +0000 spideyjg 62736@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Sorry. It is a BB. Almost an adult, 3rd or 4th stage, but not yet there.</p> <p>You are armed with knowledge and despite the fact it sucks you have a head start.</p> <p>Jim </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62735 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:32:26 +0000 cilecto 62735@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>&gt; Do the photos look like bed bugs to you?<br /> Sorry, I'm an amateur. You might want to repost and indicate in the title that you need an ID. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62733 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:25:13 +0000 buggedout16 62733@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks Cilecto, you're right- I need to calm down.</p> <p>Do the photos look like bed bugs to you?</p> <p>(It turns out my sister had fleas at her apartment; has had them sprayed for and is no longer getting any bites... so I guess that's what she had... lucky dog haha) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62732 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:22:47 +0000 cilecto 62732@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Bugged. I'm going to suggest that even if it's BB, if you've tolerated the situation for the last few weeks, give yourself a few more days to approach this methodically. Take otecautions to keep from spreading the bugs elsewhere. Get symptom relief. Kill/trap any that are obvious. Then plan your prep and treatment at a pace that you're comfortable with. Get a note pad and figure out what you absolutely need to do. Check in with the PCO and prep as pet instructions, but don't go overboard. Best of luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/murphys-floor-cleaner#post-62729 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:52:16 +0000 BettyV4 62729@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>How long after treatment can I use Murphys Floor Cleaner? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62728 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:29:30 +0000 buggedout16 62728@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>ok here's pictures (hope this works...)<br /> <a href="http://i1017.photobucket.com/albums/af297/buggedout16/possiblebedbug2.jpg" rel="nofollow">http://i1017.photobucket.com/albums/af297/buggedout16/possiblebedbug2.jpg</a></p> <p><a href="http://i1017.photobucket.com/albums/af297/buggedout16/possiblebedbug1.jpg" rel="nofollow">http://i1017.photobucket.com/albums/af297/buggedout16/possiblebedbug1.jpg</a></p> <p>yuck i hate seeing it giant size like that!!! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62727 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:00:38 +0000 BB_Slayer 62727@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>There's no reason to be "terrified"... these things are less annoying than mosquitos since they can't fly. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62724 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:43:06 +0000 cilecto 62724@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>buggedout16 - 2 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62710">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> OK can't figure out how to post a picture and couldn't find it in the how-to's... how do I do it? </p></blockquote> <p>get an account with one of the picture services (flickr, picasa, photobucket) and follow instructions to upload. Right click on the picture and click "copy shortcut". Paste the shortcut (ctrl v) into your post.</p> <p>Also, remember. You're a pro at this now and you have us. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62710 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:05:19 +0000 buggedout16 62710@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>OK can't figure out how to post a picture and couldn't find it in the how-to's... how do I do it? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ive-got-them-freaking-out-and-sad#post-62709 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:47:27 +0000 buggedout16 62709@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>So... I was here a little over a year ago, thinking I had bed bugs that turned out to be carpet beetles. Unfortunately, this time it's not such a happy ending. I found this little guy crawling up my bedroom wall today and it looks exactly like the pictures on here. I've been terrified of this since last year when I thought I had them- it's my worst nightmare and I don't know what to do. My mattress and box spring are already encased from the scare I had last year; and I don't see any stains or spots on the sheets or any of those areas. I didn't see anything in my couch either, but I sleep there occasionally by accident- falling asleep watching TV or something- so I'm sure they are there, too. I know "what" I have to do know; but doing it is going to suck. I was supposed to work all weekend; I just called in for tonight to try to start dealing with this; don't know what I'm going to do about the next two nights. I think I know where they came from- my littlest sister's apartment- I visited her about 6 weeks ago and she mentioned she'd been getting lots of mosquito bites- when I came back I had some bites too but they went away- I'd had other spots that could be bites or acne and kept inspecting my bed and etc. for signs- saw none until today. I'm going to have to let her know, too. Although you'd think she'd have seen them by now- maybe she just doesn't know what they look like. I live alone, in an apartment building, and I am not going to be able to do furniture moving by myself. I think I'm just going to throw away a lot of my stuff. I'm terrified of how this is going to turn out. I just wanted to vent here.</p> <p>Oh, going to try to post the photo if I can once I figure out how... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62653 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:55:24 +0000 jasmine311 62653@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>BBcoukHome - 5 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62634">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> Hi Jasmine,<br /> Sorry just got around to reading this thread and some of the things do not quite stack up.<br /> Could you please either post a picture of the insects you are seeing or collect some and post them to my office for checking.<br /> It is not beyond the realms of possibility that only your colleague ended up bringing bed bugs home with her the reality is that not all exposed people bring the problem home, if they did then the problem would be a lot worse than it is. I have actually modelled infestation patterns in some cities and regions of the UK so its not something I am saying lightly.<br /> Don't worry about being squeamish bed bugs are just plain icky all said and done and it takes a certain type of person to willingly expose themselves to environments full of them, I have long since believed that one of the characteristics of a good bed bug specialist as opposed to a PCO is an ability to remain calm, focused and asses the facts.<br /> Hope this helps.<br /> David Cain<br /> Bed Bugs Limited</p></blockquote> <p>Wow, that is really nice of you. The PCO who wouldn't spray a second time said he would come by tomorrow to pick up some bug samples, but I would rather send them to you instead. I only have two. I had more but I spray them with a lot of alcohol to make sure they are dead and I think some just disintegrated. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62634 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:53:01 +0000 BBcoukHome 62634@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi Jasmine, </p> <p>Sorry just got around to reading this thread and some of the things do not quite stack up.</p> <p>Could you please either post a picture of the insects you are seeing or collect some and post them to my office for checking.</p> <p>It is not beyond the realms of possibility that only your colleague ended up bringing bed bugs home with her the reality is that not all exposed people bring the problem home, if they did then the problem would be a lot worse than it is. I have actually modelled infestation patterns in some cities and regions of the UK so its not something I am saying lightly.</p> <p>Don't worry about being squeamish bed bugs are just plain icky all said and done and it takes a certain type of person to willingly expose themselves to environments full of them, I have long since believed that one of the characteristics of a good bed bug specialist as opposed to a PCO is an ability to remain calm, focused and asses the facts.</p> <p>Hope this helps.</p> <p>David Cain<br /> Bed Bugs Limited </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62610 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:54:10 +0000 jasmine311 62610@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>spideyjg - 5 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62586">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> True BBs are not white but translucent in their nymphal stage.<br /> Get a high powered magnifier and get some pics. Count the legs and if they have 8 they are a type of arachnid and likely a mite,<br /> Jim</p></blockquote> <p>Thanks, that's a good idea but that is just so distasteful to me. I am here all by myself day after day with nobody to hold my hand through this. I just can't handle looking at these things under high magnification. Sorry for being so squeamish. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62608 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:50:48 +0000 jasmine311 62608@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>Louise - 14 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62563">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite></p> <blockquote><p><cite>jasmine311 - 3 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62527">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> I have never seen any reddish brown, except the shed skins are sort of that color. Once I saw something dark run across my bed but it was too fast to catch.<br /> Mostly I have very very tiny white things crawling on me and biting me. I thought they might be something else too, so have looked up all sorts of lice, but they are none of those. They are definitely a blood-sucking parasite because they are very aggressive in hunting me down and climbing on me. </p></blockquote> <p>Ugh! You must be so frustrated!<br /> So, are you saying that the bugs are seeking you out while you're up and about? Can you post a picture? The idea of white bedbugs is sort of freaking me out...I thought I knew what to look for, but your experience has me questioning that now...<br /> Louise </p></blockquote> <p>No, they find me and get on me when I'm sitting still at the computer or watching TV--but--I don't notice them until a while later. Maybe you shouldn't mind what I said. I thought they were bedbugs because I have the little black dots that are feces and the skin casts but I've never really seen an adult. However, I've NEVER had a problem like this with bugs in my life and my co-worker has a very very bad infestation (since July) in her apt. And we shared a hotel room together so....</p> <p>Whatever I have I'm hoping all the things I'm doing will work just as well regardless of whether it is BB or something else. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/got-bugs-for-a-hotel-room-think-we-left-them-there#post-62607 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:19:20 +0000 cilecto 62607@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Sorry, bugged. Some people get out of infested places without taking along passengers, sone don't. I hope that you're one of the lucky ones. As your funds are tight and so is the supply of PCOs who actually know what they're doing, perhaps your regular inspections, coupled with some precautions, are the best way to go. Over time, your techniques will improve and next time you're exposed (I believe that we all will be, eventually), you'll be ahead in your game. Have your kids over, but explain to them the new "birds and bees". </p> <p>If you're feeling flush AND you have a PCO and/or dog who's TRULY reputable, especially with low level infestations, you might want to try that. Note my emphasis on "truly". </p> <p>Best of luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62586 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:46:25 +0000 spideyjg 62586@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>True BBs are not white but translucent in their nymphal stage.</p> <p>Get a high powered magnifier and get some pics. Count the legs and if they have 8 they are a type of arachnid and likely a mite,</p> <p>Jim </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/got-bugs-for-a-hotel-room-think-we-left-them-there#post-62580 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:06:44 +0000 bait 62580@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Don't take the chance of exposing anyone else. I hate to suggest this, but until you know for sure, can the college students have Thanksgiving at their friends' homes? </p> <p>At the very least, they must educate themselves (about BBs silly) and take the precautions. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/got-bugs-for-a-hotel-room-think-we-left-them-there#post-62571 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 02:01:59 +0000 BoJenkins 62571@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I stayed at a place with bb, but my bites didn't show up until a full 7 days later. Did you notice any bites right away at the hotel? Maybe you were bitten at the hotel and your reaction to the bites is just delayed. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62563 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:56:34 +0000 Louise 62563@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>jasmine311 - 3 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62527">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> I have never seen any reddish brown, except the shed skins are sort of that color. Once I saw something dark run across my bed but it was too fast to catch.<br /> Mostly I have very very tiny white things crawling on me and biting me. I thought they might be something else too, so have looked up all sorts of lice, but they are none of those. They are definitely a blood-sucking parasite because they are very aggressive in hunting me down and climbing on me.</p></blockquote> <p>Ugh! You must be so frustrated! </p> <p>So, are you saying that the bugs are seeking you out while you're up and about? Can you post a picture? The idea of white bedbugs is sort of freaking me out...I thought I knew what to look for, but your experience has me questioning that now...</p> <p>Louise </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62562 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:47:43 +0000 spideyjg 62562@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>samson - 1 hour ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62554">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> I noticed that in the first embedded video not only did he throw the beeding on the floor ( a no-no) but he started to scratch himdelf like mad at the 25 seconds into it.</p></blockquote> <p>Hence the moniker Itchy-Mon-Mike.</p> <p>Never trust an itchy mon selling BB products. </p> <p>Jim </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62554 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:34:58 +0000 samson 62554@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I noticed that in the first embedded video not only did he throw the beeding on the floor ( a no-no) but he started to scratch himdelf like mad at the 25 seconds into it. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62552 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:18:19 +0000 jasmine311 62552@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>cilecto - 5 minutes ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62550">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> I recall a post that a best practice is to run two one-gallon steamers (one in use, one heating up) so that you can do the job right and uninterrupted. You want a steamer that gives enough volume and hot enough (200 at tip) so you kill the bugs without blowing them around and don't cause mold. Those little jobs that are being pushed on a lot of scared people just won't cut it.<br /> Take this video, for example. Bogus. Bad advice (Itchy-Mon-Mike):<br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv9Ldx-mY8o" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv9Ldx-mY8o</a></p> <p>Good steam videos (Jeff White, BedBugCentral):<br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P068pWUNfY" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P068pWUNfY</a><br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHDHOFrbv34&#38;feature=related" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHDHOFrbv34&#38;feature=related</a><br /> As I urged Jasmine, take it easy and do some homework before dropping more cash.</p></blockquote> <p>Thanks Cilecto. I think a steamer would be good, but I can't afford the type that would do the job right. I've reconciled myself to that. Thanks for providing so much background. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62551 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:05:21 +0000 jasmine311 62551@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>bait - 18 minutes ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62542">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> I have seen affordable steamers in the stores. I think I saw a pretty elaborate Shark (or was it Sharp?) for about 60 or 70 dollars.<br /> I just bought an Emerson at CVS for $20, but I intend to use if for de-wrinkling clothing. I have no idea how hot it gets.<br /> Be aware that if you use steam, you open yourself up to a whole new set of problems caused by mold.<br /> The most important thing in my opinion is to follow all the protective protocols, to eliminate the chance of infesting someone else. The worry and guilt, and possible repercussions of that, are unbearable. </p></blockquote> <p>Oh I know--I haven't spent time with a human being face to face (except for work) since October 6. Except one time I returned a dish to my next-door neighbors and they invited me in. They are elderly and get lonely so I didn't know what to say. I sat for awhile. I had just got back from work and was still in my sterilized clothes and shoes--hadn't sat down in my own apt. yet. But I do worry about that one incident.</p> <p>I bought a clothes steamer at Walmart for $30. Then I saw on this site that it would not be hot enough to do my furniture and was not dry vapor. Still--I would have kept it for my clothes but it only worked sporadically so I returned it today. I've spent a FORTUNE on this problem. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62550 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:05:13 +0000 cilecto 62550@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I recall a post that a best practice is to run two one-gallon steamers (one in use, one heating up) so that you can do the job right and uninterrupted. You want a steamer that gives enough volume and hot enough (200 at tip) so you kill the bugs without blowing them around and don't cause mold. Those little jobs that are being pushed on a lot of scared people just won't cut it.</p> <p>Take this video, for example. Bogus. Bad advice (Itchy-Mon-Mike):<br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv9Ldx-mY8o" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vv9Ldx-mY8o</a></p> <p>Good steam videos (Jeff White, BedBugCentral):<br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P068pWUNfY" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P068pWUNfY</a><br /> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHDHOFrbv34&#38;feature=related" rel="nofollow">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHDHOFrbv34&#38;feature=related</a></p> <p>As I urged Jasmine, take it easy and do some homework before dropping more cash. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62546 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:00:00 +0000 jasmine311 62546@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>wchicago, thanks a million for all your helpful info. I've been thinking of going that route myself--I made inquiries at a paint store. The guy said to use a squeegee to make sure the poly gets into all the cracks. I'm pretty sure I have hardwood parquet. That's what the ad for my apt. complex says. :-D</p> <p>The spaces between the tiles are very very small, but just small enough for a bug to slip into--like a 32nd of an inch or smaller. I just want to be sure it would seal those openings--with all the area I have I don't want to do more than one coat.</p> <p>Cilecto-you're right. My floors are very dull now from all the murphy's oil I've used on them, and I'm sure the vaseline they picked up from the furniture legs didn't help either. I think I'll have to use a water/vinegar solution to degrease the floors first.</p> <p>Bait, I have been caulking with silicone, just not anywhere on the floors. Lucky for me this apt. is pretty modern so there are not many places that need caulking. My last residence was an apt. in an old house and there were huge cracks and openings EVERYWHERE. But then---I have to remember it was a renovated attic in the first place.</p> <p>wchicago, just want to thank you again for your input. :-) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62542 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:42:58 +0000 bait 62542@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have seen affordable steamers in the stores. I think I saw a pretty elaborate Shark (or was it Sharp?) for about 60 or 70 dollars.</p> <p>I just bought an Emerson at CVS for $20, but I intend to use if for de-wrinkling clothing. I have no idea how hot it gets.</p> <p>Be aware that if you use steam, you open yourself up to a whole new set of problems caused by mold.</p> <p>The most important thing in my opinion is to follow all the protective protocols, to eliminate the chance of infesting someone else. The worry and guilt, and possible repercussions of that, are unbearable. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62540 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:33:11 +0000 bait 62540@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I polyurethaned my hardwood floor, on my hands and knees, using store bought product. It did not provide enough coverage to fill deep, wide cracks. Either use a professional or - I've been told - try varnish.</p> <p>If you caulk with silicone, buy paintable, not the stuff for bathrooms. I wish someone had told me that before I caulked everywhere. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62538 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:26:50 +0000 cilecto 62538@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>If you've soaped the floor, you might need to do some prep to make the poly stick better. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62535 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:51:23 +0000 wchicago 62535@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hi jasmine, one more thing, if you think you have laminate &lt;and i think i might have laminate tiles in the kitchen, not real wood - -do not poly the laminate. you'll need a special sealer for laminate &lt;poly is only for wood, i'm polying everywhere BUT my kitchen and bathroom&gt;</p> <p>but, all is not lost. there is this stuff to seal the cracks in laminate -you can get it colormatched to your laminate floor. and if you have wood instead, well, poly away &lt;just FYI, minwax makes a low VOC fast drying easily accessible floor poly&gt;<br /> hope this helps</p> <p>laminate sealant link below &lt;and no, i don't work for home depot, i just seem to live there these days between the caulking and the sealing&gt;<br /> <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/Flooring-Laminate-Flooring-Laminate-Tools-Accessories/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xr5Zba6w/R-100006670/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&#38;storeId=10051&#38;catalogId=10053" rel="nofollow">http://www.homedepot.com/Flooring-Laminate-Flooring-Laminate-Tools-Accessories/h_d1/N-5yc1vZ1xr5Zba6w/R-100006670/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&#38;storeId=10051&#38;catalogId=10053</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62531 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:21:00 +0000 wchicago 62531@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>jasmine</p> <p>i'm so so sorry, your situation sounds awful!<br /> i have wood tile floors in my kitchen &lt;with tiny cracks between&gt; and old hardwood floors &lt;with not so tiny cracks between, and also nailholes&gt; everywhere else. its a 'vintage' chicago apartment, hardwood floors, lots of molding and built ins &lt;actually, quite charming before the bedbug invasion&gt;.</p> <p>i am thinking of polyurethaning the floor, using water based poly. i'm not going to sand between coats, because for us bedbuggers, its not about a completely perfect looking finish - i just want to seal all the cracks. its a PITA, but not horribly expensive. here is an ehow article with tips -but i would go to home depot or some other big box store and ask them, the supplies aren't hideously expensive and applying it is kind of like a cross between painting and mopping. . it'll take at least a weekend per large room though -with all furniture out &lt;but it sounds like you don't have alot to move around anyway. so given your situation, maybe seal em in. its like caulking :) but for floors &lt;i just finished caulking my apartment's baseboards. ALSO a huge HUGE PITA, and now i need to caulk all the non baseboard cracks. this will take awhile :)&gt;.</p> <p>good luck!<br /> <a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_4707900_polyurethanecoated-floors.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.ehow.com/about_4707900_polyurethanecoated-floors.html</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62527 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:57:56 +0000 jasmine311 62527@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have never seen any reddish brown, except the shed skins are sort of that color. Once I saw something dark run across my bed but it was too fast to catch. </p> <p>Mostly I have very very tiny white things crawling on me and biting me. I thought they might be something else too, so have looked up all sorts of lice, but they are none of those. They are definitely a blood-sucking parasite because they are very aggressive in hunting me down and climbing on me. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62505 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:23:48 +0000 Louise 62505@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>jasmine311 - 12 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62476">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> Well I caught a big nymph tonight trying to crawl up the leg of my chair--it must be a 4th or 5th stage instar--it looks exactly like a bedbug, proboscis and everything--but it is still white. </p></blockquote> <p>Wow. I didn't know that 4th or 5th stage instar could still be white. Don't they have to be feeding on someone in order to get to that stage? </p> <p>Are all of the bedbugs you're seeing still white, or are some reddish-brown?</p> <p>Louise </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62502 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:26:54 +0000 jasmine311 62502@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks Cilecto. I really appreciate your reply. I have been reading this forum for about a month. It's been an invaluable support to me. I found out I had BB on October 6th.</p> <p>I just vacuumed and tossed the bag like you said. Unfortunately I think their harborage is my wooden tile floor which extends throughout my 1000 square foot apt. They can hide in the tiny cracks between each of the small wooden tiles. I have Murphyed it many times but I can't afford a steamer.</p> <p>They hang out wherever I am, which is at the computer and where I watch TV. I got rid of all my furniture and brought in plastic lawn chairs and a plastic patio table for the computer.<br /> Mt apt. is bare except for these things and an airbed. There are a few bookcases on the periphery but I have checked these carefully and there are no signs or evidence of BB.</p> <p>I had a lot of trouble isolating my bed. The cases from Walmart wouldn't keep out the nymphs. Then the boxspring cover I bought especially for BB got tiny rips in it. That's when I bought an airbed. But I have isolated the airbed on glasses of mineral oil. I've got my clothes in the oven right now heating before I go to work. You guys have really helped me a lot. Thanks for being here. :-) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62487 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:02:13 +0000 cilecto 62487@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Welcome, Jasmine and sorry. BB fighting is much more about process (how you work, where you apply the goods, when) than what. You're may be applying chemicals where the bugs are not harboring or going. Before you spend any more money on chemicals, please get educated on inspection and control techniques. Visit the links section and check out one if the IPM manuals or Codes of Practice. Check out the videos at bedbugcentral.com or the you tube of Austin Frishman doing an inspection. Meanwhile, go conservative. Vacuum a lot and toss the bags. Murphy soap. Isolate the bed. Get medical relief fir symptoms. BB sometimes require the patience, persistence and precision of a hunter. Best if luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62476 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:24:05 +0000 jasmine311 62476@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Well I caught a big nymph tonight trying to crawl up the leg of my chair--it must be a 4th or 5th stage instar--it looks exactly like a bedbug, proboscis and everything--but it is still white.</p> <p>The problem is that I really live in the boondocks and this is the the third PCO who told me he didn't think I had bedbugs (the first would have been free of charge--as it was the apt. complex's PCO.)</p> <p>Sure--if I hadn't been on edge ever since my co-worker told me she had bedbugs and if I wouldn't have been constantly looking for evidence every time I got bit, I never would have caught this problem so early, but now it seems as though this fact is a handicap, not an advantage.</p> <p>I spent the money I was going to use for the PCO on Bedlam, Sterifab, Protect-a Bed covers, Ziploks, alcohol, DE, a sleeping bag, airbed, clothes steamer, and a million other things. since I figured I had to solve this problem on my own. </p> <p> But I need a stronger pesticide. The Bedlam is just barely keeping them at bay and not really controlling them. The PCO used Gentrol, Dragnet and Talstar. I am pretty chemically-sensitive so I am reluctant to try the insecticides people write about here, e.g. Demand CS. Is Demand more toxic for people than Dragnet or Talstar?</p> <p>I know people will say don't use these chemicals yourself, but I don't really have a choice. I've already spent $750 on a PCO who only came once and won't come again. I haven't been able to physically visit with anyone since October 6th and I feel like I'm getting nowhere. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62458 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:29:35 +0000 CookEmDanno 62458@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Trap the nymphs and get recommendations for better PCOs in your area. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pcos-will-not-believe-me#post-62452 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:59:18 +0000 jasmine311 62452@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My co-worker told me she had bedbugs and we shared a hotel room for 3 days so when I started getting bit and saw the little black dots all over my mattress and pillow I knew what I had right away even though I never saw an actual adult bedbug.</p> <p>I was so freaked out I threw out my mattress right away and mopped and cleaned every trace out of my house. I guess that was a bad idea because the PCO said he couldn't find any trace of bedbugs and he didn't think I had any. He sprayed a little bit with Talstar and Gentrol but he won't come back. He says my problem is in my head--he says there is a technical word for it.</p> <p>Now I'm on my own with DE and Bedlam. What should I do? He left some glue traps but they don't go in the traps. The pesticide got rid of the adults but I have a million tiny nymphs that crawl on me every chance they get. I isolated an airbed but I'm still afraid to go to sleep. Any ideas will be appreciated. They're not in my head. They follow me everywhere I go and have kept me awake many nights. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/need-to-know-that-this-will-end#post-62411 Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:39:33 +0000 Susan B 62411@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I am overwhelmed and need encouragement. For 2 months I have seen doctors etc only to finally find what we think is a bed bug...only 1. No fecal traces, no black droppings etc...nothing. Just me getting a few bites every few days. We had an exterminator come and inspect the room, he could not find any traces of bed bugs and is not certain we have them. They are coming back to treat in a few days. We found what we think is another one and will give them to examine. We have encassed all mattresses and box springs with bed bug protectors, we have heated all clothes in the dryer and put in tubs in the basement, we have vacuumed, steamed in the dryer EVERY item in our room. I have not been biten in 8 days, I know they live a long time....and we are pursuing exterminator treatment.</p> <p>At what point do you ever know they are gone? Will there be a day when I don't inspect all the covers? When will I not have to vacuum everyday....and will I ever sleep a full night again? Thank you for listening! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bed-bugs-omg#post-62294 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:57:44 +0000 ThisBItes 62294@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I really hope your problem is on it's way to being under control deathlyallergic and you have my empathy and sympathy. My PCO was last here 2 weeks ago and told me at the time that my infestation was "under control" but in the last couple of days the evil couch where everything is concentrated has bbs popping up on it everywhere, albeit unfed and nasty little ones (no adults) so something has apparently hatched. GROSS! I am just as diligent in my efforts to keep this contained by daily hot laundry and keeping our shoes outside, everything sealed and bagged, showering just before leaving, dressing in my kitchen, nothing on the floor, etc. If anyone in Denver has any ideas on how I could get some help in getting this couch out of here and destroyed I would really appreciate it. Thanks for all the support from these forums-they are a lifesaver!! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bed-bugs-omg#post-62275 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:54:56 +0000 Deathlyallergic 62275@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>So far, after my last battle, I came to the conclusion my mattress pad was a huge culprit, the casement had traces of their stains, my mattress pad was very thick and mattressy, don't think it killed off all the BB when washed and dried cause of its cali king size and thickness, I have since removed it, just put a sheet over the encasement, isolated my bed, put the climbups under the frame legs, and none have shown in the climbups, and I haven't been bitten in 2 weeks.<br /> I still have the exterminator come out weekly, I still inspect all my clothes before donning them, and Im still as paranoid as hell and still sleep with a suit of armour, but I did leave a small portion of my shin/calf with out clothing and no bites thus far.<br /> hears hoping!! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/a-new-infestation#post-62173 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:20:05 +0000 Nobugsonme 62173@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>By the way, it is also possible you are being irritated by something besides bed bugs. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/a-new-infestation#post-62172 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:19:13 +0000 Nobugsonme 62172@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>This is the response I left in the FAQs:</p> <p>I can only speculate but I think it’s unlikely that bed bugs were present in your immediate vicinity and did not bite you, unless they were sealed away and could not do so.</p> <p>It is possible, I suppose, that bed bugs were stored in items not used in the interim and only recently brought out. If bed bugs were stored away somewhere, they may not have been able to get out and bite you.</p> <p>It’s also possible you’ve experienced a new exposure to bed bugs.<br /> There may be other explanations I’m not aware of. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/a-new-infestation#post-62161 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:50:49 +0000 BoJenkins 62161@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello everyone,</p> <p>I posted this question in one of the FAQs, but I thought I'd also create a new topic to hopefully get advice from more people.</p> <p>I went to a camp at the end of summer 2008 for a class trip and ended up bringing bed bugs from the cabin I stayed in into my dorm room. I experienced severe reactions to bites until the middle of December. Throughout September-December, my university performed 4 total pesticide treatments in my room. Towards mid-December, I noticed that the bites had become fewer in number and healed faster for each new set of bites, until, finally, I stopped experiencing the bites completely. Until now, I had thought I had successfully gotten rid of my bed bug problem.</p> <p>I am at a new university now, and I fear I may have brought the bed bugs with me. I know bed bugs can stay dormant for very long periods of time, but how likely is this? The other day, I noticed a couple bites on my face and neck that appear very similar to the bed bug bites I experienced last year. Over the winter and spring at my last college, and then during summer at home, I had not experienced any bites. How possible is it that the bed bugs were in my belongings and simply dormant from mid-December 2008 to this November 2009?</p> <p>Last spring and winter, while still at school, none of my belongings were packed away. When I was home for the summer, all my clothes and even my comforter were unpacked in my house, so I find it odd that only now have I begun getting bites again. During the summer, the only things that were kept sealed away were my sheets and towels. I had washed these and put them in the dryer before packing them up (in one of those zip-up plastic covers you buy comforters in). Could there have been some bugs that survived in my sheets and decided to come out now? Or would it be more likely that my new dorm has bed bugs unrelated to my previous infestation?</p> <p>Sorry for the long post. I appreciate any input! Bed bugs are so freakin' frustrating!! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-as-confined-as-i-thought#post-62120 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:35:29 +0000 fantastapotamus 62120@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>tonight I got a bit more organized with my mountain of bags and stuff in my living room and I've now got a barrier of carpet tape around each section of my couch, which should allow me to see any comings and goings for the next few days at least (it is really dry here, I'm not sure how long the tape will stay sticky).</p> <p>No findings since that lone bug on Sunday night (two possible bites, but with it being dry here I may have just been itchy and paranoid as I didn't see a definitive welt like I've had before), so I'm telling myself that all's quiet on the western front.</p> <p>fingers crossed. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/so-overwhelmed-by-bed-bug-onslaught#post-62118 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:19:38 +0000 stevebeast 62118@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>you have to keep your clothes in sealed bags. put your shoes in a bag when you come inside same with your suitcase and other bags. do anything you can to put off getting your bed otherwise you can cosider it infected. be careful if you decide to move back home as you will probably bring them with you. try sleeping in the bathtub with the doors/curtain closed and the ceiling fan on. nightmare is such an understatement. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/so-overwhelmed-by-bed-bug-onslaught#post-61906 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:12:27 +0000 pillowparade 61906@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I am in my early 20s and was living at home after graduating college to save money. Even though I get along fine with my parents, I decided it was time I moved back to the city where I went to school and get an apartment of my own.<br /> When I found place with a great set up, location and price, I didn't hesitate and moved in immediately, but since then nothing is going right. While I was moving, somebody stole one of my bags, which included very expensive jewelry, my iPod, and my camera.<br /> A few weeks later I found a chair on the street outside my building, and thought it would make a nice addition. BIG MISTAKE.<br /> I woke up with a dozen bites the next day and immediately threw it out. I reported bed bugs to the building manager, she still hasn't brought in the exterminator weeks later. She says he is ignoring her calls. She came in herself and sprayed poison even though that is not how you kill bed bugs, but I guess she thought it would be a temporary solution.<br /> I am still getting bitten, and I dry all my clean clothes every week and just don't know what to do. I've been sleeping on a sleeping bag on the floor, but my bed comes Wednesday and encasements are so expensive.<br /> Also I don't know how to keep my clothes safe. I know they have drawer liners, but what about everything that I hang in the closet?<br /> How am I supposed to wear shoes every day if it means exposing them to the beasties in my apartment.<br /> Not to mention my suitcase and other bags.<br /> This is all such a nightmare.<br /> I think I should just move back home. Why </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-as-confined-as-i-thought#post-61895 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:46:30 +0000 fantastapotamus 61895@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>It is hard to say what the standard is around here as I didn't really "comparison shop" beforehand. </p> <p>I found the problem Friday, I started calling Saturday and only had 1 company call me back before the one I hired (given the job because they said they could get to me Monday afternoon). knowing how quickly these things can breed and spread I definitely wanted someone in as soon as I could. Sadly some of the other companies never even called back, so that doesn't really speak well for customer service or their approach to the business.</p> <p>The other guys never mentioned a guarantee, and the one I hired set 30 days beyond the 2 weeks post treatment (where I may still see some but residuals should be killing them), so I guess it is really a 45 day guarantee.</p> <p>I'm trying to stay positive, but it is the location of the find more than the find itself that troubles me. </p> <p>I know it is possible it fell off something I brought to the laundry room in the first days after the discovery (or even before then - I mean, it wasn't like I was being careful and bagging everything up when I'd take my sheets to the wash pre-discovery), or that I drew it to the front of the house by sleeping on a camping pad the floor for 6 nights, but I was feeling good that only 1/3 of my place was showing evidence, and now it is extended to 2/3 by the discovery of a single bug.</p> <p>The silver lining? I've only seen 2 bugs since spraying, and I can't say for sure I've had a bite. Do younger stage bb's bites manifest less than an adult? meaning are the welts smaller the younger they are? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-as-confined-as-i-thought#post-61876 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 23:39:49 +0000 soscared 61876@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I am sorry to hear that, Fantastapotamus. Don't despair, maybe it was just a dying one from your bedroom that's drunk on the chemicals, trying to run away from the chemicals before he falls over dead.<br /> Is a 30 day guarantee standard where you are? I got a 90 day guarantee for my chemical treatment. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/not-as-confined-as-i-thought#post-61869 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:58:46 +0000 fantastapotamus 61869@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>dammit. </p> <p>When I first discovered my infestation I was fairly confident they were confined to the bedroom I was sleeping in. I hadn't found any skins or traces anywhere else in the house when I pulled baseboards, etc. and since I got a PCO in as quickly as I could I didn't think they would be anywhere else.</p> <p>well, either I drew this one out to the front room when I slept up at the front of my place for the 3 nights prior to spraying and the 3 nights after, or it was there all along and I really have to worry that now my new couch is hiding them as well. there is one other possibility, that it fell off something I've been running through the laundry but I don't feel that is as likely.</p> <p>it was still moving so the chemicals didn't kill it, although it may be dying from the residual effect, I don't know. it has been 6 days since spraying and this is only the 2nd one I've seen since then.. and the first out beyond my bedroom.</p> <p>just when I was starting to feel better about my situation, one little bug and I'm back to square one with worry and stress. I guess the positive is that it doesn't look like a full grown adult based on this picture</p> <p><a href="http://bedbugger.files.wordpress.com/2006/10/common_bed_bug_lifecycle.jpg" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugger.files.wordpress.com/2006/10/common_bed_bug_lifecycle.jpg</a></p> <p>the dark spot near it's butt on the one I just found is fairly small so I'd say it is likely a 3, 4 or 5.</p> <p>I'm DEFINITELY getting some climbup interceptors to see if there are any more out front or in my bedroom, I'm DEFINITELY going to keep vigilant, and I'm DEFINITELY getting my PCO in for a second visit within his 30 day guarantee.</p> <p>siiiigh </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61836 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:11:44 +0000 fantastapotamus 61836@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>bbboogie - I've <u>never</u> been one to be more concerned about appearance over effectiveness. :)</p> <p>Thinking about it since I posted I'm likely going to just leave it hanging loose since it isn't reaching the ground. If I tape it up and inadvertently create a bb hotel I'd be kicking (and scratching) myself. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61833 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:41:25 +0000 bbboogie 61833@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>fantastapotamus - 16 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61814">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> I put 3 or 4 layers of duct tape over all sharp parts, but I just left the boxspring cover hanging loose.<br /> it is a queen size bed and it is just me, so if I were to tape it up I'd be afraid of ripping it while trying to get it on the frame. hopefully this is ok.</p></blockquote> <p>It should be fine without taping. I just mentioned taping in case you didn't like the look of the hanging part. :-) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61814 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 19:44:35 +0000 fantastapotamus 61814@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I put 3 or 4 layers of duct tape over all sharp parts, but I just left the boxspring cover hanging loose. </p> <p>it is a queen size bed and it is just me, so if I were to tape it up I'd be afraid of ripping it while trying to get it on the frame. hopefully this is ok, but if not I'll see if I can get someone to come in and give me a hand while I duct tape like mad. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61810 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:06:45 +0000 bbboogie 61810@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I also bought my encasements from MattressSafe which seem to have a good rep. I put them over plastic covers from Target and so far, so good. You can tuck the excess between the mattress and boxspring and tape it so it stays put.<br /> Every weekend, when I change my sheets, I examine the encasements for any signs of bedbugs but so far I've been lucky not to find any. :-) I padded the sharp edges of my metal bedframe with foam strips to I didn't tear it. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/carpet-beetles#post-61801 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:34:11 +0000 hoo2677 61801@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>In the midst of my bed bug ordeal I also discovered carpet beetles and I will attribute some of the itchy/bitey sensation to them. I've seen them at the larval stage and adult. I always wonder if they are responsible for all those little holes in the front of every t-shirt I own. </p> <p>The image is exactly a carpet beetle larvae. They look like real beetles when they are adult, but still pretty small. A 30x magnifier can help you see what's not a bed bug.</p> <p>Portland, OR </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/carpet-beetles#post-61786 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:32:10 +0000 curlynicole 61786@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello. I went on holiday 2 weeks ago and the second hotel we stayed in was FULL of carpets!!! (we were in Turkey near Aphrodisias in Western Turkey and it was the only hotel in the area ...) Carpets on the floors, hung on the walls, over tables and sofas.. one of which we sat on when we arrived as we were exhausted... The hotel itself didn’t look that clean, being run by one bloke and his lakkie and infact he didn’t seem that keen for us to sit on the sofa but offered us some uncomfortable looking chairs (they had small carpets on them too!) Anyway we did sit on the sofa about 30 mins before eating and going to bed… During this time I was wearing a wool cardigan too… : ((</p> <p>Two days later, (about 60 hours) in the morning at a different hotel … (we only stayed one night at the Carpet Hotel!) we were both suffering from small bites, hardly visible but really quite itchy mainly on our hands.. I also noticed a kind of rash like thing going on down one site of my torso, quite itchy but more rash-like than anything else, although there were some raised pimpley type thing going on there too. Since returning from holiday the “bites” seem to have got a lot more extensive, now especially on hands, wrists in the area of the veins, and up the arms… I can also feel some bite-like symptoms on my feet occasionally or maybe I’m being paranoid?? I also feel that when I wear the cardigan I was wearing at the time, I seem to get more bits… they are like pimples in size and elevation but really quite itchy at first but this soon goes… after about a day the bit has subsided… </p> <p>The strangest thing is I haven’t seen ANYTHING bug-like on my skin at all???? </p> <p>Has anyone any suggestions what might be causing such things and possible treatment? I live in Turkey so any treatment would have to be generic or from a natural source as we don’t have the range of products available elsewhere (despite being quite a “buggy” country!!!) Worried the culprits will be migrating into my collection of Turkish wool kilims!!! Help!!!! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61779 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:58:08 +0000 watkinsnewan 61779@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>WOW you got 20 min I couldn't sleep for about 3 days... Which made me really psychotic and then add 5 kids on top of it and my husband was out of town.. I was so snappy every thing in my life came to A screeching Holt to deal with BB.. and I am a very on the go Mother ... I lost my life...I hated that the most... And then all the precaution and arguing with family and friends to just check if you wont.. I will come over and check for you...every one In my life knows from the DR's to mine and my husbands jobs and the kids schools... I bit quite a few heads off Hear an there...<br /> I am lucky to work Seasonal.. So sat down an made a plan I had every thing down to a tee.. (very Mild OCD)<br /> I really understand about the nice new sectional That was my next Big purchase Thank god I have not bought one yet....<br /> You work all your life to have nice things an some dam bug comes and destroys it... And to top it off I knew Nothing about BB Didn't even know they existed..so I couldent protect me and the family.. I always thought it was a fairy tail "Sleep tight don't let the BB bite if they do smush with Daddy's big fat shoe"(Inside joke)Is what I used to tell my kids Now i just tell them I love them and I will see them in the morning...<br /> DID you ask your PCO if he could treat the sofa...They can.. Just to be safe I don't know your whole situation but it dosen't hurt to ask...<br /> I dont know what people do with out the internet when they have BB... So thankful for that little comfort in life.. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61755 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:27:09 +0000 fantastapotamus 61755@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>watkinsnewan - 3 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61741">looks like your well on your well you are so informed.. more than I was and WAY MORE level headed than most when they find out...<br /> Good luck...</a></cite></p></blockquote> <p>you wouldn't have said that if you saw me the night I discovered them. I think the longest I slept was 20 minutes at a stretch for the remainder of that night. every little twitch and I was jumping out of my skin. even now sitting at my desk at work, with all the precautions I take leaving the house I'm slapping or scrubbing my hand over locations that I feel (or imagine I feel) anything like crawling or itching.</p> <p>I tend to be a calm guy until I find a pack of mini vampires making a home in my bed and a meal out of me... then I pretty much lose it :)</p> <p>as for being informed, if I didn't have the internet I likely would have had a lot longer of a time before identifying the problem and making a decision to call a PCO. It has been helpful to get a lot of information, pictures and support, but I confess it has also fed some of the fears and led to my overreaction like being overly cautious when leaving the house or spending any sort of time in my house.</p> <p>I have a brand new 4 piece leather sectional that I can't bring myself to sit on in case I bring the problem there, my first real furniture purchase in my life (everything else I have is either cheaper Ikea type stuff or hand me downs from friends / family - not the source as I've had all that furniture for <u>years</u>) and I'm too paranoid to sit on it and relax. :( </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61742 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:47:35 +0000 watkinsnewan 61742@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>OOH NObuggs My husband is color blind and cant tell the color of the bugs... He thought brown was black... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61741 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:45:47 +0000 watkinsnewan 61741@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>It is very rear when using chemicals to get rid of them with one spraying and dusting.. I had my first treatment just a week ago..My company says they can do it But I heard it is rare I am going to call them back out in a week or two to come out an spray an dust again... just to be sure...I have gotten a lot of sleep in the past week.. It is such a relief...And I am not on this site as much which helps even tho I am addicted..<br /> looks like your well on your well you are so informed.. more than I was and WAY MORE level headed than most when they find out...<br /> Good luck... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61740 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:34:27 +0000 fantastapotamus 61740@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I caught around a dozen samples for him and kept them in a double ziploc bag until he showed up. He didn't say what stage they were at, but definitely confirmed bedbugs. The ones I caught looked to be at the later stages of the life cycle as they were easily visible ( around 0.5cm, some smaller, some larger) , and I did have few that I tried to pick up simply squish when I grabbed them. </p> <p>while I was walking him through what I had found and where he actually found a couple more hiding in places I'd have not thought to look (back of the nightstand / dresser in a tiny crack near the top), and 15 minutes before he showed up I saw an orange-red dot moving on the ceiling which I promptly skooshed.</p> <p>I guess saying "black lint" was a bit misleading - it was late so I can't say for sure what color it was, just noticeably different than my red flannel sheets so I decided to brush it off on to the floor and instead got the surprise of my life. </p> <p>night 1 back in the room is over and nothing to report, but then I wasn't getting that many bites to begin with so I think I'll have to give it a few days before I can say for sure if they got them all on the first treatment. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61736 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:27:56 +0000 Nobugsonme 61736@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>fanta --</p> <p>Don't worry, I really don't think people are misreading the title of the thread.</p> <p>Did your PCO actually identify the samples? I ask because you describe it as black "lint" that ran away... bed bugs are not black. Were the bed bugs different sizes? Do you have a photo? How big were they?</p> <p>In answer to some of your questions:</p> <p>You do need to sleep where you normally sleep. Sleeping in a new location may cause bed bugs to move around.</p> <p>You can buy pillow encasements from the same sources as mattress/box spring encasements.</p> <p>Please also see the FAQs (linked at top of page). </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61735 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 02:06:23 +0000 fantastapotamus 61735@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>thanks nobugs, </p> <p>I'm certainly not trying to represent that I know what I'm talking about. quite the opposite, I got myself so worked up reading everything on a number of different websites I had myself convinced I was totally screwed for life with these little parasites.</p> <p>if I had been even as coherent as I am now (and I'm totally exhausted) I'd have made the title of the thread correct so people would know this was a giant (I tend to ramble when I'm tired / stressed) call for help and clarification.</p> <p>fingers crossed some of those experts can get back to me and answer my most pressing questions (handling of laundry, additional measures of protection and the fit of the boxspring encasement)</p> <p>thanks to everyone's input so far, every little bit helps :) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61734 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:55:22 +0000 Nobugsonme 61734@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi fantastapotamus,</p> <p>Sadly, I can't edit thread titles. (Weird, I know.)</p> <p>But I think people will look anyway. Even if it sounds like it is maybe an expert's thread -- with all the tricks and tips -- that is likely to entice experts in to see if you really know your stuff. And they'll find you need their advice... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61725 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:45:07 +0000 fantastapotamus 61725@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks for the replies.</p> <p>I actually just got off the phone with my PCO and he has calmed quite a few of my fears. </p> <p>The quote I gave him was "the internet is a wonderful tool for information, and an even better one for fueling hysteria", and it is very true in both cases. His statement was to not worry, and that they have about a 95% success rate with a one time application, and many of the revisits are from people being lazy or not taking the time to wash everything or follow the advice given on how to avoid re-contamination. </p> <p>message received - the laundry train will not stop until everything is roasted and bagged. </p> <p>based on that scale you linked to I'd estimate my problem to be in the 6-8 range, which (not surprisingly) coincides perfectly with me moving in to this location... meaning it was a parting gift from my former tenants, or I picked it up in my moving truck (my stuff sat in there for 2 days).</p> <p>the mattress / boxspring cover brand they sold me was mattress safe inc. (mattresssafe.com)and it looks like they were entomologist tested, so that again is a load off my mind. I'll definitely look at the frame and make sure there are no sharp spots before I rebuild my bed, but I might be sleeping off the floor tonight! yay!</p> <p>I actually paused in writing this to go fight with the bed and get everything together - one question - shouldn't the boxspring cover fit snugly, like a second skin to the boxspring? mine says "one size fits up to 9 inches in depth" , but it just hangs loose as my boxspring isn't 9 inches deep, it is only 7. </p> <p> so there is an extra 2 inches of material just hanging there... any suggestions? I see that extra as a inviting home to any bb's that want to settle in on the creases. duct tape to the rescue, and make folds etc like wrapping a present?</p> <p>in regards to sleeping - he confirmed I should have been back in my room on night 1, but without a mattress cover (they ran out the day before I hired them) I just couldn't. he wouldn't come right out and say that I was pied piper-ing them to the front of the house, but with how insistent he was to get me to bag up my bed and get back in there tonight I think the message is clear. also, he said I can't track the residual effect of the chemicals away by walking around on it, so that is good to know.</p> <p>so back I go tonight in to ground zero and hopefully they haven't scattered in search of another meal, or migrated up to the front of the house looking for me. I need to draw them out and drag them through the chemicals. (die bugs, DIE!) :)</p> <p>he said if I'm really worried about the couch and if it has bugs, I should put down double sided tape as a cheap first stage detection tool, but I thought I read somewhere that they can just walk through it so. that is why I was considering the climbup protectors (if they will fit under the legs)..? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61723 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:02:24 +0000 hathead 61723@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>your climb-ups should fit under your couch no problem! they are not more than 2 inches high, at a guess </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/help-and-hints-for-a-first-time-infestation#post-61713 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:30:08 +0000 wchicago 61713@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hi<br /> a disclaimer, i am new to all of this too, but since none of the oldtimers have yet replied, i'll give it a shot (i know how awful it is to be up all night worrying, am still doing that to an extent)</p> <p>first off, infestation level<br /> here is a thread on estimating levels, created by one of the experts here.<br /> <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-we-grade-infestations#post-17126" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/how-we-grade-infestations#post-17126</a></p> <p>where to sleep -reading the FAQs here -it seems consensus is STAY IN YOUR BED or risk spreading them elsewhere</p> <p>your PCO sounds awesome, btw -MUCH more thorough than mine (who just sprayed the baseboards and steamed my sofa on his first visit). i now have PCO envy.</p> <p>folks here seem to like the protectabed encasements cuz they have been tested by an entomologist as bb proof. that said, mine ripped in less than 2 months, they are pretty fragile, and hugely expensive. this should not stop you from buying one -just make sure to check it for tears often, like a couple of times a week, and be prepared to re-encase. some folks put ductape on the corners before putting it on the bed (After matttress is encased, but before it is on bedframe) and say this helps with the tearing. wish i'd done that. live and learn. my bed is now doubleencased because of the tears on the first encasement - my second encasement was an inexpensive one from target (all i could afford after shelling out over $120 for the first one that ripped) that said "waterproof and BB proof" it was arond $20. i duct taped the zipper. i hope double encasing works -seems to as i have many fewer bites.</p> <p>if you're going to use DE read the FAQ and buy a respirator. seriously. don't breathe it in. awesome stuff but be careful to use it safely</p> <p>your laundry protocol sounds good, as long as you're drying in a HOT dryer. clothes need to be bone dry + 20 minutes at 160 (i think? you can search the forums, there is a handy table somewhere with temps and minutes). you can test your dryer with a cheap meat thermometer to make sure its hot enough, i did and it gave me peace of mind (168 degrees -whoo).</p> <p>seriously, your list looks good. the only things i might add would be buy a pactite to bake anything you can't throw in the dryer (e.g., shoes, books, cds, dvds, etc) and caulk your brains out on any cracks and crevices (ask your PCO when, he may want you to wait until after the 2nd treatment in 2 weeks)</p> <p>good luck! i know the old timers will probably have way more to add, but i saw you hadn't gotten any replies yet so wanted to try to be helpful. also -the search function in the forum is awesomely helpful i've found -there is a thread on almost anything bedbuggy to be found. </p> <p>also - in terms fo freaking out - i had my first pco treatment 2 weeks ago &lt;not as thorough as yours, but worth something cuz bites reduced, and i had my second PCO treatment today -oddly this one he was more thorough, treating the dresser drawers too as opposed to just the baseboards&gt; and i am beginning to calm down. you'll get less freaked out with time. when i first joined the group someone PMd me and said the first 2 weeks are the worse, freak out wise, and then you just learn to live your new bedbuggy life (decon before going out, living out of ziplocs, etc) till you get rid of them. they were right, i'm on week 3 and less freaked out &lt;though not rid of them yet&gt;. it'll be ok. </p> <p>remember, i'm new and not an expert, but feel free to pm me anyway if you need to rant/panic/sympathy. ranting and panic i understand - my first few two weeks i was pretty unhinged. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bedbugs-for-the-third-time#post-61695 Thu, 05 Nov 2009 14:00:25 +0000 KILL_ALL_BEDBUGS 61695@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>BB_Slayer - 22 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bedbugs-for-the-third-time#post-61603">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> I started battling bed bugs in earnest about a week ago ... I get up around 3 a.m., turn up the lights, and wait for them to come out. Every one that shows itself dies.<br /> In observing their behavior I've noticed they don't like rough fabric. I have a smooth black cotton quilt with a smaller wool blanket on top of it, and they always crawl around on the quilt and avoid the blanket. I even laid on top of the blanket for an hour without moving and they still avoided it. So there is one possible solution to avoid bites... sleep on top of some kind of rough fabric they can't navigate or have difficulty navigating. Just make sure the fabric completely surrounds you. Don't give them a "bridge" like a pillow against a headboard.<br /> They're also very stupid - so if they are concentrated at one end of the bed, you can thwart them by rotating the bed or sleeping the other way.<br /> I've also been sleeping with a light on, just bright enough to see if any bedbugs are stalking me.<br /> If you try these tactics and are diligent in killing as many as you possibly can then you may get rid of them. Once you get all the adult females then there are no more eggs. You have four chances to kill the young ones before they reach egg laying age. (I read somewhere on here that they have five stages of growth and have to feed before they can advance from one stage to the next.)</p></blockquote> <p>getting up every night at 3 to kill any bedbug you see is a pretty poor strategy and is almost surely doomed to fail. What happens when one decides to eat at 2? or 5? or during the day? or sneaks up behind you? or bites your pet? </p>