Got Bed Bugs? Bedbugger Forums » General Topics
Newbie
(4 posts)-
fedupinphilly
newbite
Joined: Nov '07
Posts: 1offline
Posted 5 years ago
Mon Nov 12 2007 19:08:19
#
Login to Send PM
Unfortunately, I believe that I have become a member of the "bedbug" community. I noticed small bug-bites on my ankles approximately 6 weeks ago, but figured it was just mosquito bites.
The bites have increased and have spread to other areas of my body. A friend suggested that it may be bedbug-bites so I did some research and found this site. After a week of diligent inquiry, I could not identify any "markings" on my mattress, box spring, or frame (all of which are white except for the wooden frame). I did, however, notice a dark red stain on my pillow cover (not the pillow case, but the actual cover). A pest managment specialist came over to do a "free" initial consult and he could not find anything (he checked my room for about 5 minutes).
A few nights later, I did another inspection of my own and saw some dark red blood droppings behind my dresser. I had previously checked in the dresser, but had not seen any markings. I followed the trail of stains and noticed that they led to the power outlet. I removed the outlet cover and saw larger streaks of markings. However, I could not see any actual bedbugs.
I think it is safe to say that I have a bedbug problem. My housemate, who sleeps in a different room approx ten feet away has not been affected yet.
I plan on contacting a pest management specialist immediaately to clean my house. Should I begin the arduous task of cleaning and bagging all of my clothing? If the problem seems to exist in my room, what is the likelihood that the remainder of my home is infested?
Any advice would be appreciated.
-
itchyincharmcity
member
Joined: Nov '07
Posts: 272offline
Posted 5 years ago
Mon Nov 12 2007 19:18:14
#
Login to Send PM
Hi fedup. I am also a newbie, been here about a week. Same boat as you, just a couple of bites, could not find any signs of the little buggers until Friday night, when I found some bugs and/or cast skins, nowhere near the bed.
My PCO is not due to inspect until Friday but I decided to go ahead with the laundry anyway. The advice I've read here indicates that the first thing he'll tell me to do is launder and bag all my clothes. It's an incredibly overwhelming prospect, so I figured I'd get a jump on it.
It sucks, after spending 8 straight hours and $27 I actually cried in the laundry room this weekend. And I still have a long way to go, will be at it every night this week. On the plus side, I have already thrown away or donated (after thorough cooking) a TON of clothing. I have waaaaaay too much stuff in my house. So I am hoping this experience will help me downsize and change my lifestyle.
If you decide to start on the bagging, I think you are supposed to do your clothes but wait for the PCO's advice on how to handle the rest of your belongings.
-
junior member
Joined: Oct '07
Posts: 45offline
Posted 5 years ago
Mon Nov 12 2007 19:37:54
#
Login to Send PM
I was bitten for about a month and my 2 roommates were not affected, so they didn't care much, until... the new generation hatched.
I guess it took a month to infect the room next to me, but before that, I did weekly vacuums and a bug bomb (I know, bad idea). My 2nd roommate's room was not infected. Only once when I vacuumed, the bug escaped into her room for 2 nights (bit her) and followed me back when I ate dinner at her room.
I work at home so I guess it helped to concentrate them in my room... :S
Bagging is an excellent idea~ I'd been living from bags close to a month now.
-
Anonymous
Unregistered
Posts: 1,455offline
Posted 5 years ago
Tue Nov 13 2007 11:38:11
#
Login to Send PM
Yes, it cannot be emphasized enough that a bug bomb is one of the worst things that one can do when faced with an infestation. It's in the FAQs and it bears repeating. But we all make mistakes before we have the right information.
Kraystone, I hope your roommates' rooms are also being treated. Remember that not everyone reacts to the bites. Once bedbugs are in a home or apartment, the prudent thing is to inspect and treat all areas.
Reply
You must log in to post.
