http://bedbugger.com/forum/ Bed bug support forums en Sun, 22 Nov 2009 01:51:48 +0000 http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/for-pco-does-anyone-know-about-this-supper-heating-the-house#post-62805 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:18:03 +0000 cilecto 62805@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>&gt; For some peoples interest while reading the forums I used my H20 Mop and mini steamer last night on the couch after I riped the bottom off and they cooked just fine.</p> <p>Glad for you, but based on the info on the boards, steaming requires more firepower. Seeing some dead bugs does not mean that you got them all. There are also issues with mold promotion and blowing bugs away. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/for-pco-does-anyone-know-about-this-supper-heating-the-house#post-62804 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:01:31 +0000 flabergasted 62804@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>bugfreebed - 12 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/for-pco-does-anyone-know-about-this-supper-heating-the-house#post-62763">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> The Thermal is a great option in single family homes , condos and apartments can get a little tricky . Your a little unclear does your neighbors have BB and what are they planing to do ? If you do the heat and your neighbors don't I would back it up with an application of dust in the wall voids ( outlet covers , pipes, cracks) and caulk all the cracks in the unit .</p></blockquote> <p>The are town houses they were built 30 years ago when they actually built things to last. They don't share any common utlitiy runs ie electrical or plumbing so that would be a problem. Its a brick wall and and the only place it apears they can come through if the foundation framing line and yes about two months after the new renters moved it i noticed my 1st bite . The caulking thing will ge don before the PCO sprays this week see my reply to buggyin social he couldn't have answered the question any better. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62789 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:51:27 +0000 watkinsnewan 62789@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>AAAW man so the commoner like me would have to go through the PCO to get one.. SO who would we contact. You directly to find out who to purchase one from or what.? ALSO I am planning on purchasing a sectional in a few months I may want one just to protect it from these little buggers getting in... Do you make them for these kinda couches ..I haven't decided on a specific one yet.. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ziplocs-and-packtites#post-62787 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:08:05 +0000 bugbuster 62787@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks, guys. I mean, it seems logical that once they were run thru they'd be cleared for re-use - that's the point. So if they don't melt, that's good to know. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ziplocs-and-packtites#post-62785 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:02:03 +0000 wchicago 62785@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>hi bugbuster</p> <p>i've put XL ziplocs through my packtite &lt;filled with desk accessories and papers and stuff, but i opened the bags&gt;. they seem just fine. the packtite faq here said they wouldn't melt, and they did not. can't imagine one coudn't then reuse them, though maybe a wipe out with alcohol first in case there is any dead ickiness in there</p> <p>just my own experience, but i think it'd be ok </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ziplocs-and-packtites#post-62784 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 16:00:03 +0000 miked366 62784@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have been putting them in the packtite with other items and reusing them a couple times now. Seem to be pretty durable. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/ziplocs-and-packtites#post-62777 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:16:38 +0000 bugbuster 62777@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>First, can you put a ziploc bag in a packtite and second, if you can, would that ziploc be safe to be re-used after a trip through it? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62776 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 14:14:50 +0000 Full Couch Encasement 62776@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks again for the feedback and questions. </p> <p>The Sofa Safe IS totally breathable. All part of the design.</p> <p>Yes it will take a serious "beating" very durable. Jump Away!! :-) </p> <p>If you have beg bugs - The Sofa Safe is a great product to stop the spread, save the couch, and kill what's inside. </p> <p>All sales are through distributors/pest control companies. We no longer sell direct through website. </p> <p>Anyone who would like to purchase or distribute you can contact me direct. </p> <p>Not sure if I'm following the rules, but my email is <a href="mailto:nobugs@thesofasafe.com">nobugs@thesofasafe.com</a></p> <p>As for color, yes tan pics will be up soon. The white actually renders better online. You can see it better. </p> <p>But again we are not selling direct to end-user. So Pest companies will be able to describe color or show color to customer. </p> <p>Pricing varies according to amount purchased. Minimum order is 5. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/for-pco-does-anyone-know-about-this-supper-heating-the-house#post-62769 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:11:41 +0000 buggyinsocal 62769@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>You might want to search the boards here for "thermal" as most people refer to the treatment by that term. You'll find a lot more posts about the subject that way, including my own account of the thermal treatment I had back in June of 2008.</p> <p>I live in one unit in a four plex. I had thermal even though I have an apartment. Thermal can be a great option even in multi-unit buildings so long as it is accompanied by inspection to assure that all adjacent units are either uninfested or are being treated at the same time.</p> <p>Keep in mind that with conventional chemical treatment, you will be required to continue acting as bait to lure the bugs out to cross the residual chemical poisons put down to kill the bugs. In addition, with chemical treatment, you may very well require more than one treatment since there are no chemicals that reliably kill 100% of bed bug eggs. As a result, with chemical treatment, you're basically luring the already existing bugs out to feed on you in order to get them to cross residual poisons after the first treatment, and then on a second or subsequent treatment, you're continuing to lure out the bugs that hatched from the eggs that weren't killed the first time.</p> <p>Some people are far more able to tolerate--mentally and physically--being bait than others.</p> <p>In addition, thermal isn't without its risks. It's likely to damage at least some items in your home, even with prep that follows all directions. If your PCO gives you good instructions and you follow them carefully, the damage is likely to be minor. However, I also think it's important to be really clear about the pros and cons of any treatment option.</p> <p>If I had it to do all over again, I would absolutely choose thermal a second time; however, I was lucky enough to get a good PCO who got it right the first time. I'm not sure that people who've been treated by less skilled PCOs would say the same.</p> <p>I would personally be at least as concerned about researching the PCO in question as I would be about researching the method. </p> <p>Hope that helps some. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/for-pco-does-anyone-know-about-this-supper-heating-the-house#post-62763 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:12:42 +0000 bugfreebed 62763@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The Thermal is a great option in single family homes , condos and apartments can get a little tricky . Your a little unclear does your neighbors have BB and what are they planing to do ? If you do the heat and your neighbors don't I would back it up with an application of dust in the wall voids ( outlet covers , pipes, cracks) and caulk all the cracks in the unit . </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/for-pco-does-anyone-know-about-this-supper-heating-the-house#post-62761 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 04:07:42 +0000 flabergasted 62761@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I just discovered these things in house. My brother and I both started getting weird bites around the same time. I thought it was scabies because of the way I was reacting and did the treatment for them. I didn't get anymore for awhile so I guess the BB's don't like the skin treatment. I noticed a couple of new bites and the pharmist said sometimes it takes a second treatment. Well before I wasted the $50 cream for a 2nd treatment my brother phones and says it not scabies we have bed bugs because he caught one in his couch. Well my couch and recliner are full of them.</p> <p>So in my search for a pest control company I ran across this Thermal exterminating. I watched the videos where they were using it in hotels on the US and thought it was better than spraying pesticideds in my house. Low and behold we have one of the only two companies in Canada that do it here in our city. So I called and spoke with him - the low down of the conversation is it costs about $1,700 the process is they seal up the house bring the heat up to 140 degress and sustain for 4 hours and basically cook them - you do the cleanup. He says you don't have to get rid of your furniture and it also kind of acts like a cleanser as well for any mold, dust mites or other creepy crawlers.</p> <p>I was told by someone I am probably better off spraying because I have a condo but we have solid concrete block walls between us and they could be coming in at the foundation joint. Were not sure who's house got it first but my neighbors moved in two months before the 1st bites appeared and big brothers downstairs tenat is a prison guard.</p> <p>So the delema here is spend 1,700 maybe it works or go the spray route and take the $1,500 I am saving toast the couch because the PCO I found will do the fisrst spray and followups for 750.00 .</p> <p>For some peoples interest while reading the forums I used my H20 Mop and mini steamer last night on the couch after I riped the bottom off and they cooked just fine. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62753 Sat, 21 Nov 2009 00:50:50 +0000 bait 62753@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>...and what's the price? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62749 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:26:25 +0000 bait 62749@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Please give the dimensions. You know, it may be great for things other than sofas. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/the-sofa-safe#post-62748 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:44:12 +0000 Nobugsonme 62748@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Closing this one. See above. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62747 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:41:39 +0000 Nobugsonme 62747@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks for telling us more, Ken.</p> <p>I hope you will get the product tested soon and look forward to that data. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62745 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:32:08 +0000 JWhiteBBCTV 62745@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hey Ken,</p> <p>I'd be interested in getting a sample of your product to take a look at and if the initial evaluation goes well, possibly looking at it in the field. Any chance you could PM me or e-mail me at <a href="mailto:jeff.white@bedbugcentral.com">jeff.white@bedbugcentral.com</a> and we could discuss this further.</p> <p>Although I'm skeptical how an encasement would hold up against the wear and tear a couch receives, I would still love to see it an evaluate it. Skepticism only holds people back from discovering new, worthwhile products.</p> <p>Let me know.</p> <p>Jeff </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62741 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:59:01 +0000 cilecto 62741@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Ken. You probably want it breathable, or any moisture inside will fester over the 6-15 months the safe will be used.</p> <p>Your site shows a light colored cover. Many customers will miss the "actual cover us tan" note, leading to annoyed customers and wasted time for you. I'd reshoot the photos. And, like Lands' End, I'd offer small swatches of the fabric to potential customers, so there are fewer "surprises". </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62738 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:46:14 +0000 watkinsnewan 62738@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Glad to see you finally made it..Just one question can it with stand my 22 month old jumping on it... she weights 32 lbs.. and is very active...<br /> Thanks cilecto I get behind some days... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/the-sofa-safe#post-62734 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:27:53 +0000 cilecto 62734@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Ken introduced himself in another thread. Good discussion.<br /> <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/the-sofa-safe#post-62731 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:01:15 +0000 watkinsnewan 62731@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hello Ken Hippner (Full Couch Encasement)I got your message and would like you to introduce your self and your company to all the bed buggers.. Remember we are all waiting.and have lots of questions.<br /> This thread is for all to ask Ken about his company The sofa safe. I have been waiting a long time to hear from him in this public forum. So I decided to start the topic. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62700 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:54:08 +0000 Full Couch Encasement 62700@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Like Mattress encasements, you must inspect for any sharp edges on bed frames etc, you must also perform an inspection on the bottom of a couch. The pest control company or occupant must take action to protect encasement(s) from sharp objects. This is true for any encasement.</p> <p>Most legs are smooth, but for the few that have sharp edges, we recommend placing either an old blanket or some other barrier between legs and The Sofa Safe. Then zip it closed. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62699 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:47:00 +0000 spideyjg 62699@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>How do you ensure the feet don't tear through?</p> <p>Jim </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62698 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:41:05 +0000 Full Couch Encasement 62698@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thank you for all the questions. </p> <p>As for testing. In addition to The Sofa Safe, I also own a pest control company. I set up 18 tests in 18 different homes, (actual customers) with confirmed bed bug infestations. I personally inspected all 18 every 20 days for 6 months. My concern as with all encasements was the zipper and zipper stop. We did not have a single bed bug (at any life-stage) penetrate the encasement. I have contacted Dr. Dini Miller's office/staff to set up testing to confirm my results through her own testing. She is busy, but I'm hoping to have that completed sooner rather then later. We also used Double sided tape (on the outside) along zipper line and around zipper stop to track any activity coming out from the inside, not a single bug was found. It works really well.</p> <p>Its made of a Polyester material that is fairly comfortable with a water resistant backing. Notice I used water "resistant" I know other encasements say "proof" but in fact that is not the case. I have sold every brand of encasements to my customers AND have tested all of them while developing The Sofa Safe. NONE of them are water PROOF. All of them will leak water through seams under pressure (its VERY slow) none the less NOT water PROOF. So I just want to make that distinction. AND they are all very good encasements for bed bug protection. I should add - if you spill wine on The Sofa Safe its not getting through. :-) </p> <p>As for tearing, it would take a sharp object to tear The Sofa Safe. Its very durable. But caution should still be exercised - same rules apply to any couch without The Sofa Safe. NO Sharp objects allowed! </p> <p>Great question about crushed bugs. First I will say: thats a problem with or without The Sofa Safe. Sleeping on a couch and tossing and turning will crush bugs. Also - contrary to popular belief - blood stains are not that difficult to remove. In addition -when we took off The Sofa Safe we found very little movement from the original location of the bed bugs, there was some, but to our surpise we found most dead in the seams, cracks and crevices. </p> <p>Please remember The Sofa Safe is a temporary "tool" - to be used to stop the spread of bed bugs to and from the couch, AND to kill all live bed bugs inside. </p> <p>Its comes in one solid color (light tan) we tested patterns, but it is much harder to detect activity with patterns. The inspectors eye is distracted. So we do not have swatches either.</p> <p>The Sofa Safe is great product, it gets the job done, and its re-usable, which is a nice feature for some homes that have been re-infested. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bugs-in-bookshelves-and-desk#post-62690 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:51:45 +0000 buggyinsocal 62690@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>As someone else who is a bibliophile, I understand the problem with books and papers.</p> <p>Packtite (note the C in its spelling if you want to search the fora for posts on in) is a good option. It wasn't available when I had my infestation, but it's a great resource now that it is available.</p> <p>My home was treated with thermal, so I can confirm that all my books and papers came through thermal safe and sound. The packtite basically provides the same process as thermally treating a whole structure but in a small box to treat small amounts as opposed to a whole residence. I thought you'd probably want to know that someone else put books and papers through heat treatment and had them come out fine. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62689 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:24:11 +0000 cilecto 62689@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Welcome, Ken. </p> <p>Are fabric swatches available?</p> <p>With mattress encasements, BB sometimes try to get around inside the encasements, but get crushed by the sleeping hosts. With a mattress, that's acceptable, as the encasements is intended yo be used forever and is covered by bedding. With a couch, you'll need to contend with crushed bugs when you decide to remove the encasements. Any ideas to prevent or mitigate this? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62685 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:45:12 +0000 wchicago 62685@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Additional questions: what are your encasements made of?<br /> Is it waterproof plastic/vinyl on the inside but cloth on the outside &lt;like many mattress encasements&gt;? How easily does it tear?<br /> And how do you know the zippers are bb proof? (I'm seconding the 1st instar question above) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62684 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 10:36:33 +0000 soscared 62684@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi Ken,</p> <p>Is this your website?<br /> <a href="http://www.thesofasafe.com/howto.htm" rel="nofollow">http://www.thesofasafe.com/howto.htm</a></p> <p>How has your encasement been tested? Does it keep out 1st instar nymphs?</p> <p>Do you make one for recliner chairs?</p> <p>Thanks! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/couch-encasements#post-62678 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:51:34 +0000 Full Couch Encasement 62678@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My name is Ken Hippner I am the founder and developer of Sofa Safe. Its a FULL couch encasment for a bed bug infested couch/sofa. </p> <p>I am here to answer any questions anyone may have about how it works, and its multi purpose use for bed bug removal and containment. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bugs-in-bookshelves-and-desk#post-62673 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 07:02:08 +0000 cilecto 62673@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Please read up on the FAQs and someoof the resources about how and why things are done. PCOs need to treat your desk (inspect, vacuum, steam, apply chemicals) on non-visible surfaces of your desk (like deep inside, under drawers, etc.), so they need it cleared out for access. They also need to be able to move about the room. There's issue of your small items or papers possibly having bugs, so they'd need to be treated. Also, some PCOs want you bagging things to prevent bugs from taking up in them when driven from where they are now. Some want you bagging "suspect" items for 18 months, some long enough for the warranty to run out, some, just until end of first or second treatment.</p> <p>It's generally good practice to get a follow up application two weeks after the first, to clean up stragglers and eggs that hatched in the interim (today's products fade in effectiveness fast). Some PCOs claim to be so good that this is not necessary.</p> <p>There's a banner at the top of the forum for the Paktite device, a suitcase size heater, which can help you save your luggage. and lots of other stuff Do note that you need to take precautions when you travel or receive visitors. Plan ahead. Also, have you considered your car, if you have one?</p> <p>Happy Hanukkah. May one day's supply of ziplocs last eight. ;) </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bugs-in-bookshelves-and-desk#post-62667 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:58:46 +0000 BoomBoom93 62667@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Paktite. Okay. The Orkin guy mainly said it MIGHT be a problem with anything on the FLOOR, or the cubby in the nightstand and the dresser drawers. He seemed optomistic about my situation as it hasn't been too long...It's costing me $625, with a 30 day guarantee, (and you BET I will have them come back and check before that gurantee runs out!), plus I'm getting a new couch out of the whole deal, which is actually kind of cool ; ) I'm hopeful. But I will look for Paktite, whatever that is, to save my manuscripts. Basically I'm a MESSY person, clothes and books and paper and notebooks all OVER...My mom said maybe this will get me to be tidier...Oh, dear, I told my daughter that and she burst out laughing.</p> <p>OMG ONE MORE QUESTION...I'm going to spend Hanukkah with my daughter...I guess I ought to get a new suitcase, huh?</p> <p>Boom </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bugs-in-bookshelves-and-desk#post-62660 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:58:43 +0000 cilecto 62660@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Paktite. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bugs-in-bookshelves-and-desk#post-62658 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:49:03 +0000 cilecto 62658@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Boom, you should not have to dispose of anything, unless you no longer need it. Some people panic or do what their friends tell them. Some PCOs are lazy and incompetent and try to get out of serious work by having you toss your valuables. There are various ways to treat and isolate. Please hang in there. We're with you. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/bugs-in-bookshelves-and-desk#post-62654 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:04:43 +0000 BoomBoom93 62654@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have an infestation in my couch and my bed (I made the mistake of moving to sleep in the couch a couple weeks ago and I guess the bugs moved with me. It's only been a couple of months since these ferocious beasties came to join me,(I only have little bites on my arms, but annoying) and I'm wondering how BAD it can get in relation to the approximately two thousand books I have on shelves halfway across the room from the couch, and in the stacks of papers in my VERY heavy and substantial desk flat up against the back of the couch(the back of the desk is solid wood, no chinks anywhere that they could move from the couch INTO the desk)..I'm willing to get treat or get rid of the desk essentiials on TOP of my desk, and get rid of SOME papers but I'm a published author and I cnt just TRASH all my years and years of manuscrits,) nor do I want to get rid of so many books! The Orkin guy that's coming to treat on Wednesdy said to take the books off the floor and I guess I have to EMPTY the desk (OMG THIS IS ALL SUCH A FREAKING CHORE IM TRYING TO WRITE A BOOK ON DEADLINE HERE ARRRGH!), but is there ANYThing I can use to treat the paper???? And no way can I just go oh well I'll get rid of the desk--it was my great-grandfather's from his law office and is a VERY valuable antique (as is my bedroom furniture)...Together the furniture is worth around ten grand.<br /> The couch and the bed, so I'll buy new, no big deal) butI need SOMETHING to treat paper and the books from the floor...My boyfriend wont even come over (he has OCD, can't blme him) until after I treat the place. Someone help? I know I sound freaked, but I AM!</p> <p>Boom </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/is-just-drying-effective#post-62539 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:30:18 +0000 cilecto 62539@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>DrBugg - 21 hours ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/is-just-drying-effective#post-62474">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> How much is a packtite? And where do you get one usually?</p></blockquote> <p><a href="http://www.packtite.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.packtite.com/</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/rest-easy#post-62494 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:41:20 +0000 cilecto 62494@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Looking at RMB Group's other products, seems to be an inventive entreprneur acting in good faith. Not sure if this particular product is or is not a solution, but this kind of inventiveness is how the problem will be solved. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/rest-easy#post-62492 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:09:31 +0000 cilecto 62492@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>A number of recent posts have mentioned a natural product called "Rest Easy". </p> <p>Here is a link to their "efficacy report".<br /> <a href="http://www.thermbgroup.com/resteasyefficacyreport.html" rel="nofollow">http://www.thermbgroup.com/resteasyefficacyreport.html</a></p> <p>Items to note.<br /> Testing is by the manufacturer.<br /> 100% contact kill.<br /> 0% residual on smooth surface.<br /> 1 out of 10 bugs die on wood surface after 4 hours.<br /> Repels 90%.<br /> No indication on how many times test was repeated and what was done to rule out anomalies. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/is-just-drying-effective#post-62474 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:29:57 +0000 DrBugg 62474@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>How much is a packtite? And where do you get one usually? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/habits-of-bed-bug-in-combination-with-de#post-62280 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 01:16:01 +0000 meli 62280@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>i recommend you read widely and well on this subject to find out more! </p> <p>i've heard they'll walk through a light dusting of d.e. but tend to avoid a thick layer. and that if they walk through it, it takes time to work but it will harm them. i heard a rumor it's partly because they ingest it when they clean their legs with their mouths like many insects do, and the abrasive powder causes internal damage and they dehydrate and die slowly. </p> <p>i'm pretty sure you'll need to fastidiously do many other things as well to hopefully get them out of your belongings and home if you're "self-treating." i have read a few narratives online from people who said they worked on it very diligently and carefully with every possible non-toxic method and had longterm success.</p> <p>almost sure some of the molted skins i've found have had legs and some haven't. doubt it has much to do with d.e. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-action-any-ideas-welcome#post-62171 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:15:16 +0000 watkinsnewan 62171@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I learning something new every day about the site.. Man will I ever get through the whole site ..I might of even read about it already....... Thanks... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-action-any-ideas-welcome#post-62170 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 21:39:46 +0000 Nobugsonme 62170@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p><a href="http://bedbugger.com/faqs/pestcontrol/faq-killing-bed-bugs-with-steam/">We have a FAQ on steaming too.</a></p> <p>Have you verified the laws where you live re: landlords, tenants and bed bugs? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-action-any-ideas-welcome#post-62165 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:10:29 +0000 stevebeast 62165@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>my shark steamer only getst to 130 at the nozzle, also when you steam the wood furniture it will mess up the finish and steaming wood furniture isnt the best because you cant really get into the cracks and joints </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-action-any-ideas-welcome#post-62151 Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:28:43 +0000 watkinsnewan 62151@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Sorry I didn't get to the post sooner It seems like I am all over the place these days even tho I stay at home.. good to hear that the kids are number 1... Mine are too...you have to be careful while steaming any thing that has pesticides on it..<br /> Here is the link to find out more on the steam cleaning lots of good advice I got<br /> <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/men" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/men</a><br /> I hate that my kids have to go through this.. They don't seem too effected by it tho..They keep telling me I am being paranoid.. NOT...<br /> I don't have the first clue about pesticides and cant under stand all ingredients and how much is here or there.. So I just go with ALL chemicals used on BB are dangerous...<br /> I have managed to shift my finances around to pay for the PCO because I felt with me being so ignorant on the subject it was better left to the PRO's ...<br /> Good luck with the self treatment And stick with the site and keep us posted.... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/advice-4#post-62119 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:30:55 +0000 stevebeast 62119@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>bed bug bully is a total scam </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62109 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:17:43 +0000 BB_Slayer 62109@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>It's a cigarette lighter, not quite a torch :)</p> <p>I found a scientific study online that said bed bugs die instantly at 122 degrees. (They also die at lower temps but it takes longer.) A flame brings them up to 122 rather quickly! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/an-assault-on-all-fronts#post-62091 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:56:57 +0000 bugbuster 62091@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Yes, Upper West Side public school. We've had problems on and off for a year. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/an-assault-on-all-fronts#post-62088 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:02:02 +0000 upagain 62088@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>"Inevitable infestation" is how I feel sometimes too. I can understand what you are feeling. Is the school in NYC? School infestations seem to me to probably be one of the biggest spreaders of the little demon. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/an-assault-on-all-fronts#post-62086 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:50:20 +0000 bugbuster 62086@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My daughter's school has bedbugs, but not her classroom. My building has bedbugs, but not my apartment.</p> <p>I have mattress encasements, check for stains, watch where I sit, and have trained my kids and husband to be on the lookout for bugs on their coats and to report any suspicious bites to me asap. </p> <p>What else can I do to protect myself from what feels like an inevitable infestation? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-attack-comments-appreciated#post-62072 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 10:28:02 +0000 watkinsnewan 62072@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I am not sure what you would use to clean an air mattress with.. maybe one of the old timers will chime in an let you know... Do you know about the search box yet.. TOP right.. just type in what you want to know about it will pop up all threads on topic.... Maybe you can find it in there... i have seen a lot of people talking about it.. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-attack-comments-appreciated#post-62068 Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:45:26 +0000 pillowparade 62068@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks, watkinsnewan.<br /> That is a good idea to look into the air mattress. What is the procedure for cleaning it, and how often would I do that?<br /> RE: confirmation that it's bed bugs. I haven't seen any in the act, but a couple of days after the manager sprayed poison, I found a dead one on the floor. Unfortunately I dropped the "proof" as I was looking for a little bag to put it in. I could only tell that it was a bug because of the legs when I held it upside down. It was probably a bed bug, but I am no expert. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62054 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 23:52:07 +0000 cilecto 62054@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <blockquote><p><cite>watkinsnewan - 1 hour ago <a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62047">&nbsp;&raquo;&nbsp;</a></cite><br /> ignorance is bliss.. I am glad I stayed with this site I think ya'll are rubbing off on me.. GOOD thing too. ..I have heard each and every word I may not remember it all right now but A lot of the comments stuck with me.... Success story will be soon... I have already started it..... Hope fully my favorite teacher will help me with the final touches..<br /> Remember future readers Safety ALWAYS first..</p></blockquote> <p>the safety comment was directed at mr. Butane torch </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62047 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:30:42 +0000 watkinsnewan 62047@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>ignorance is bliss.. I am glad I stayed with this site I think ya'll are rubbing off on me.. GOOD thing too. ..I have heard each and every word I may not remember it all right now but A lot of the comments stuck with me.... Success story will be soon... I have already started it..... Hope fully my favorite teacher will help me with the final touches..<br /> Remember future readers Safety ALWAYS first.. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-attack-comments-appreciated#post-62041 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 22:19:16 +0000 watkinsnewan 62041@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>pillowparade,<br /> There is no easy way to tell you this.. but You can not fully protect this kind of futon... BB can an will get into every thing and any thing they see fit to.. besides you don't want to bring A un infested piece of furniture in to your home right now with out having it fully protected.. I have read that you can get A Metal bed frame and duck tape the Heck out of it and put A Air mattress on it.. that is the cheepest way to go.. this way you are off the floor. you can even just use the air mattress on the floor. It is really easy to clean and inspect...<br /> You never said if you were confirmed to even have BB.. Have you gotten confirmation yet. from a PCO you really don't want to go through all that work if you don't have BB..<br /> In my opinion I would take this wrought till I knew for sure if I had BB or not.. Better safe than sorry..<br /> The wait time is any where from 55-60 days from your last bite or sighting of the BB.. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62037 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:47:45 +0000 cilecto 62037@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Sure, GL kills on contact, but do do a lot of cheaper, milder products. The pyrethrins are for a longer term kill, which GL does not offer. BTW, I'm glad you've become safety conscious. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62035 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:44:56 +0000 watkinsnewan 62035@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I really know what you r saying it is just that in my case I cant just use any thing and I have a lot of the products radially available that are on this site and Woman especially like ME and the situation I am in with 5 kids and Vulnerable state of mind that we can get in to ... need to be warned.. So be care full next time you post and keep in mind people who come in here can use this product and not have the warnings and kill someone or something... I know this product and it is also dangerous just like the formula above that you posted from the other thread....Especially in the state of mind we are all in while we are ALL in the fight of our lives.. and just cause it don't bother you don't mean you are not being affected by it.. Brother... ya hear me ... as a mother.. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62033 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:30:26 +0000 BB_Slayer 62033@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Someone in another thread stated that they're using the following products:</p> <p>1gal Bonide, 0.02% deltamethrin<br /> 1.5lb Terro Ant dust, 0.05% deltamethrin<br /> 32oz Spectrum Triazicide, 0.25% gamma-cyhalothrin<br /> 1.5lb Bayer Ant, 0.1% Cyfluthrin (large granules)<br /> 1lb Scotts Bug-B-Gone dust, 0.25% permethrin<br /> 32oz JT Eaton BedBug Spray, 0.13% pyrethrin</p> <p>I think the Greased Lightning is less dangerous than these chemicals. It doesn't bother me, anyway. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-attack-comments-appreciated#post-62032 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:23:37 +0000 pillowparade 62032@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I see what you mean, but how will I even know when the bugs are gone? Even if a week goes by with no bites, who is to say they won't be back? I've already postponed delivery once, and I feel like I am going to be sleeping on the floor forever. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-attack-comments-appreciated#post-62030 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:13:37 +0000 BB_Slayer 62030@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Those bugs are so small and flat that I don't think it's possible to make a futon 100% impenetrable. The bugs are known to drop from the ceiling; and one could crawl off of you onto the futon while you're assembling it or unpacking it. I would cancel delivery of the futon until the bugs are gone; or else be prepared to de-infest it if females start laying eggs in it. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62029 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:08:13 +0000 watkinsnewan 62029@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Here is the number In the event of a medical emergency 1-877-800-5553.. ( 911 )Eye irritation and skin irritation...May be harmful if swallowed contains water Glycol ether alkaline builders and surefactants. (I have no clue what those are I read it directly off the label)Avoid contact with eyes.Do not taste or swallow.Avoid prolong contact with skin..use rubber gloves with sensitive skin WASH HANDS thoroughly after use... I have a bottle doesn't mean I am going to use it as a spot treatment... my husband only uses this stuff out side... cause it causes throat irritation to me and the kids..The bottle also says consulate manufacture 's recommendations... so call the company the # is on the bottle... it also says ~~~ KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN I think that means PETS TOO~~~There are A LOT of surfaces you cant use this product on...like Paint ,varnished or acrylic surfaces, leather, aluminum, Plain, anodized,or alloy, laminated or clear coated surfaces stain resistant carpet and counter tops...~That was right off the bottle...~ </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-attack-comments-appreciated#post-62027 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:54:55 +0000 pillowparade 62027@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I wanted to bounce these ideas off you to see if this is actually a good idea, or if I've lost it.</p> <p>Background: I just moved to an apt and was sleeping on an old mattress on the floor while I shopped for a bed. Everything was fine until I took a chair off the street and got heavily bitten the next day. I threw out the mattress and the chair the next day, but am still getting bitten. The manager sprayed poison twice around the apartment, and the exterminator is allegedly coming Thursday night. Hopefully he will know what he's doing.<br /> In the meantime the futon I ordered comes tomorrow. I really can't postpone delivery for the exterminator because Veteren's Day is a work holiday and the best time to wait for delivery men.<br /> So I have a strategy to keep my belongings bed bug free.<br /> 1. As I wait for the delivery man tomorrow, I'm going to put the sleeping bad and pillows I've been using in a giant Ziploc bag where they will stay for 18 months.<br /> 2. When the futon comes, I will assemble it in the middle of the room and put fly tape on the legs. This way, no bugs can climb into the bed. I don't think a mattress encasement will work because the mattress is attached to the metal frame. It looks like this:<br /> <a href="http://bigapplefuton.com/bermudasofabed-p-344.html" rel="nofollow">http://bigapplefuton.com/bermudasofabed-p-344.html</a><br /> 3. I will take all my clean clothes to the dryers one last time. Once they are dry, they go in Ziploc bags. Whenever I take clothes out to wear, they don't go back inside the Ziploc until they are washed/dried. I will do this until a few weeks pass with no bites.<br /> 4. My shoes and purses go in Ziploc as soon as I step foot in the apartment every day. </p> <p>Does this seem effective to anyone? Your responses will be very much appreciated. Thanks in advance! </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/greased-lightning-orange-blast-kills-bed-bugs-on-contact#post-62025 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:40:01 +0000 BB_Slayer 62025@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>The ingredient (d-limonene) which is mentioned as the 'bug killing' ingredient in Murphy's Oil Soap in another thread on this forum is actually the main component of citrus oil. I suspect that any household cleaning product with orange oil or lemon oil will kill bed bugs on contact.</p> <p>I have tried Greased Lightning Orange Blast and it works. I've killed three bugs with it so far; one bug even seemed to dissolve somewhat. Ewww. </p> <p>Greased Lightning is not flammable; I held a flame to a few drops of it in my kitchen sink. It doesn't seem to damage or stain fabric either. One squirt will kill nymphs, adults may require 2 squirts. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/advice-4#post-61963 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 11:54:16 +0000 buggyinsocal 61963@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Freezing is not nearly as effective a kill method as high heat. Even putting your comforter and blankets outside in the deep winter for a week isn't reliable. (I think someone put items outside in Alaska for a few weeks in winter, and that worked, but anything short of those temps isn't reliable.)</p> <p>Washing in hot water and then drying the comforter and pillows on high, high heat until they are dry, and then drying them for another 20 minutes past that is a much more reliable method. If it's a comforter that can't be washed, consider having it dry cleaned and then putting it inside a bed bug proof encasement before you bring it back into an infested residence.</p> <p>In addition, you should be aware that moving without bed bugs is a very, very tough feat to accomplish.</p> <p>Bed bugs don't burrow into hair or skin. They do not live on their hosts the way that fleas and ticks do. However, the dog is an issue in that they will feed on her if they can't get to humans.</p> <p>Local laws may require that your landlord find a way to pay for pest control on any rental properties he or she has, so check your local laws.</p> <p>Also keep in mind that if the previous tenant had them and left, chances are when you leave, you'll be leaving a bed bug problem for the next tenant. The cabin would have to be free of any blood source for 18 months to kill the problem off that way. Your landlord may simply hope that the next tenant won't complain or letting the cabin be unrented for a month or so will kill the bugs off. That's not the case.</p> <p>In addition, unless a pro has been in there, you can't be 100% sure they're bed bugs. They could also be bat bugs or bird mites. You really need a pest control pro to identify exactly what pest or pests you're dealing with.</p> <p>In addition, in order to move without taking the bugs with you, you would probably need to have the entire moving truck full of your belongings when had been correctly packed treated with either Vikane or thermal in order to kill all the bugs and their eggs in addition to you and your dog and your partner taking precautions to take no hitch hikers with you on your clothes, shoes, and small carryable items (backpacks, wallets, etc.). You would need to find a good pest control provider who did either thermal or Vikane to treat the truck.</p> <p>If you haven't yet done so, please read the FAQs on the main site. They have a lot of solid information that will help you make smart decisions about the best way to eradicate the problem as soon as possible. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/advice-4#post-61947 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:48:07 +0000 cilecto 61947@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>If the laws in your locale require LL to provide vermin free space, then his lack of money should not be your concern.<br /> Your LL's failure to disclose that there was a BB condition may have legal and criminal implications.<br /> BB eradication can be complicated. Also consider if it's truly BB and if it's not happening elsewhere in your daily life.<br /> For your move, see FAQ and search posts under "moving".<br /> Bully appears to be a cleanser. Lots on the market are effective as contact killers (search our boards on that term).<br /> Best of luck. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/advice-4#post-61937 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 01:27:41 +0000 emilyjaybee 61937@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>My boyfriend and I moved into a somewhat dilapidated cabin outside of Boulder, CO. It took about a month before I started noticing large clumps of extremely itchy swollen red bites. To summarize a month of confused anxiety, "BED BUGS."<br /> Upon realizing this, and doing what I could in my meager budget to eradicate the bugs, the situation turned out to be worse than I ever could have imagined;<br /> The Bugs had nestled all along the wooden slats that comprised the walls, as well as the in small crevices in the floorboards, (I can only imagine how those filthy little bloodsuckers have since made themselves cozy in my clothes and books and other take-ables.)<br /> Anyway, I brought the situation to the attention of my landlord, who was not surprised to hear that Bed Bugs were here - apparently tenants in the past had complained of them.<br /> Asking the landlord to pay for the $4,000-$5,000 treatment is not a possibility, he does not have the money. Plus, we're moving from here in a month and a half.<br /> Basically, I'm seeking advice on many parts;</p> <p>I'm looking for advice on inexpensive short-term relief, as well as the necessary measures to make sure that I do not take these F*&#38;^#$'s with me when I move out of here at the end of December.<br /> Also, to complicate matters a little more - I have a dog - is she an issue to think about, whether the bugs will burrow into her hair?<br /> And also, I think that my car might possibly have trace amounts of bugs.<br /> I don't really know where to start, I just need to hear some good solid advice on how to make sure when I leave this shithole, I leave the Bed Bugs as well.<br /> THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! to anyone offering anything.</p> <p>Oh, incase it matters:<br /> "A List Of Measures I Have Taken That Have Proven to be Ineffective in the Fight Against Bed Bugs"<br /> -steam cleaning the mattress + box spring + bed frame<br /> -tearing apart the box spring<br /> -steam cleaning the walls and floors<br /> -bathing the dog in anti-tick shampoo<br /> -leaving heat off in our bedroom at night, in attempts to curb bed bug activity<br /> -twice weekly washing and drying of the bed sheets<br /> -freezing of comforter + all pillows<br /> -lining of floor boards with Diatomaceous Earth<br /> -coating bed legs in Vaseline</p> <p>One more big question: Has anyone actually tried the Bed Bug Bully - Does it work?? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-action-any-ideas-welcome#post-61930 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 22:42:38 +0000 shaye 61930@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>I have used DE but am cautious with it, my dad has used it for years around his baseboards and what not. As for my kids, I DO NOT allow them in my room at all anymore since my find. The house itself has been sprayed with this product from lowes labelled for bed bugs, sprayed around cracks, etc as labelled and always with gloves, ventillator, etc, my kids rooms were sprayed while they stayed at my mothers in the same fashion but did spray the legs of the metal frame beds. DE in their rooms was just in cracks etc for continued protection. The cannot access these areas with the way their rooms are arranged. Always air out the rooms etc. My kids are my life, gave up my career as a surgical technologist to be a stay at home mom for them. As for my room...I have sprayed it once a week for the first 2 weeks, then I switched to every two weeks...am ready to go to once a month but to be honest I'm scared to since the reduction is dramaticly different, however my infestation was a small one according to the scale. I want to steam clean things as I move in order to eliminate the bugs as well as clean any residues on my furniture in the bedroom. I appreciate concerns for my safety as well as my babies! I wish I didn't have to do this at all, wish never knew a bed bug from a tick, wish could afford the pco right now, but my only option is to protect my babies from these vampire bugs!<br /> BTW the spray is bayer advanced home pest plus germ killer.<br /> Ingredients are:<br /> Sodium O-phenylphenate 0.30%<br /> B-cyfluthrin (chemical name for tempo ultra) 0.05%<br /> Other ingredients 99.65%<br /> Does say 12 month control however in fine print lists that for german cockroaches,black carpenter ants, and house crickets on non porous surfaces. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-action-any-ideas-welcome#post-61917 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:17:37 +0000 watkinsnewan 61917@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>shaye DE is very dangerous please see caution in FAQ... <strong>EXPECIALLy</strong> with the kids... Please tell me you are not using it around the kids where it can be disturbed...<br /> Can you tell us what you are using to self treat...Please see the thread I posted for you below...I know how hard it can be to have to go this... I am right in the middle of the fight myself with 5 kids ....You really are on the right path But from one mother to another Think about any thing you do before you do it... another tip... I went to Walmart and bought a Probe Thermometer... it was not very expensive and has really helped in the fight to make sure that the temp in everything gets hot enough..</p> <p><a href="http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/baby-dies-mother-using-bug-bombs" rel="nofollow">http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/baby-dies-mother-using-bug-bombs</a> </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/my-plan-of-action-any-ideas-welcome#post-61901 Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:20:56 +0000 shaye 61901@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Ok so I have bb, lanlord won't do anything about them, I called the only pco that will do them here but is $2100, which I cannot afford! I have been self treating, I know I know. I use masks, gloves, even overalls, and I wear goggles even! Have applied de lightly as directed, and spray with otc spray labelled for bed bugs from lowes. Bagged, decluttered, etc</p> <p>Here's the thing for me. My family and I rent a single family home and were already planning to move when we discovered these creatures. So moving halted! We are still going to move but not until january or february. Now I have some ideas for my moving and would love help, advice, anything useful to me and my family. First let me add that the bb are in our bedroom, and just recently I found them in 1 of our vehicles. All else clear.</p> <p>Here's my plan of attack: our beds are all going to be replaced. My husband does not want to part with the actual sleigh bed just the mattress and box spring, the furniture in my daughters room is all being replaced due to how old and out of shape it is. My sons dresser goes with us, our dresser, chest and nightstand go too. Couch goes with us (only 3 months old) kitchen table and chairs replaced and rolltop desk goes with us. So here goes...we move in our new items, I buy shark hand steamer and steam the crap out of things before they leave this house, anything going gets steamed! I wash all of our clothes fresh before moving them in (bagged of course) toys, etc get washed or steamed before leaving this house. If it can't be cleaned or steamed it doesn't go! I steam my truck as well (will be doing this one soon) wash all dishes in dishwasher, pack immediately in new plastic storage box and take on. </p> <p>After we are in the new house I will keep clutter up and beds away from walls, encase all new mattresses, apply de around bed legs and pray! I might add to that my bites were every day, then after I started self treating they disappeared for two weeks, then came back but random bites here and there...hince finding them in my truck.</p> <p>If they come back in the new house after all that is done, pco comes in regardless if its my new landlord paying or myself! Even if I have to save up for it over a couple of months by eating bologna every night lol </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/simple-green-cleaner#post-61851 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 17:21:42 +0000 upagain 61851@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Thanks guys. Just expanding my BB knowledge (figure if I have to live BB aware, might as well try and learn every single little thing I can). David, you got me thinking with your washing machine idea. Its funny how our "newer/greener" technology is actually hurting the battle. First, with the fact that it is becoming standard environment friendly practice to try and wash cloths on COLD and dry them on a line instead of the dryer. Second, my old fashioned top loader actually will completely soak (as long as you don't overload) the clothes; but I can see how the new HE washers only try to get the cloths "wet" instead of actually soaking them (saving water and BB lives one load at a time!). Makes me think that maybe there will be a run on "old school" washers. One more, can the eggs "drown"? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/simple-green-cleaner#post-61837 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:53:41 +0000 BBcoukHome 61837@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Hi Upagain, </p> <p>With washing machines it is the temperature that kills them by denaturing the proteins, most washing machines do not actually fill fully and using a machine is not like soaking your clothes under water.</p> <p>To drown a bed bug a light mist will not do you need to force them to attempt to swim and sometimes to break the surface tension of the water. </p> <p>Hope that clarifies.</p> <p>David </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/simple-green-cleaner#post-61835 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:49:41 +0000 cilecto 61835@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>UpAgain. I don't currently use SG and can't vouch for it's efficacy. Kleen Free touts itself as being good vs BB through insinuations and claims that many on the board are skeptical of. The gist of my question is if KF and the readily available SG are similar. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/simple-green-cleaner#post-61832 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:35:49 +0000 upagain 61832@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>David,</p> <p>Regarding your comment on most things killing BBs on contact if it is a liquid, would this mean that even a cold wash in the washer should kill them (I understand maybe not eggs). Also, when you say they can;t swim well, do you mean they would need to be sprayed in a pool of the liquid, or just made wet? Just curious.</p> <p>Cilecto: Thanks. Now I have another reason to love simple green! Amazing stuff. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/simple-green-cleaner#post-61828 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 07:15:36 +0000 BBcoukHome 61828@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Most things will kill bed bugs on contact if they are liquids as they don't swim very well.</p> <p>My personal favourite is the gloved hand and tissue method. If you use 100% recycled tissue it is even more environmentally friendly.</p> <p>David </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/pillows-1#post-61827 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 03:08:35 +0000 fantastapotamus 61827@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>right now all I have on my bed for blankets is the fitted bottom sheet, a single pillow (memory foam that I dried for 35 minutes on high) in a pillow case, and a single top blanket.... I found my bedbugs just over a week ago and I'm willing to be a bit cooler at night at the expense of easier identification (and less laundry) at this stage of the game.</p> <p>I tossed every other pillow I had - 2 or 3 old ones, 4 others that were on my bed when I discovered the infestation (a couple "doubled up" in a pillowcase to make them useful), and I even pulled the stuffing out of my two giant thick pillows out on the couch to be sure. I'm considering pulling the stuffing out of a quilt my grandmother made for me simply because it is quite thick and has bunched up in a few places, and I'd sooner lose the stuffing than lose the quilt completely.</p> <p>as buggy said, these decisions are all about what gives me peace of mind. </p> <p>I saw those as the highest risks and decided to just remove them from the equation. in truth all the pillows I tossed should have been gone a while ago, but I hate to throw things away when they aren't completely worn out.</p> <p>soon, new pillows, new encasements, and eventually I'll bring back the comforter or quilt to the bed when I'm feeling a bit more confident my PCO got rid of the problem and the nights get cooler. </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/simple-green-cleaner#post-61824 Sun, 08 Nov 2009 00:16:59 +0000 cilecto 61824@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>A lot has been written about Kleen-Free (which heavily promotes itself for BB application) and Murphy Soap. I've also read that many (if not all) household cleansers will kill BB on contact. That said, I like "Simple Green" as a cleaner and degreaser (available concentrated in hardware stores). Has anyone looked into it as a contact BB killer? </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/new-personal-bed-bug-monitors#post-61618 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:56:05 +0000 meremortal 61618@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>Cost of Nightwatch/CDC 3000 vs. cost of Dome? Has anyone tried the Dome in the field yet? I'm also waiting for data... </p> http://bedbugger.com/forum/topic/medication-already-on-the-market#post-61592 Wed, 04 Nov 2009 11:50:08 +0000 meremortal 61592@http://bedbugger.com/forum/ <p>David, I think bitebedbugs back was referring to people that were already on said medications for one reason or another. My opinion is that if we can find people to do research, we should let them do the research! Whether it be a "pipe dream" or a "practical issue"...if we have the manpower, then why not do both? </p>