What to Do Immediately After Finding Bed Bugs?
You’re changing your sheets or sitting on the couch, and suddenly—there it is. A minor, reddish bug you think might be a bed bug. Your heart sinks. What now?
If you’re in Ogden or Salt Lake, you’re not alone. Bed bug infestations are more common than people think, and the good news? You can act fast to contain the problem. This guide breaks down exactly what to do within the first 24 hours of finding bed bugs—whether it’s one bug or a full-blown invasion.
Let’s stop the spread and regain control.
What We’ll Cover
- Spotting Bed Bugs: Confirming the Signs
- Emergency Steps to Take Immediately
- DIY vs. Professional Help: What Really Works
- Long-Term Prevention: Keeping Them Out for Good
- When to Call Legacy Pest Control
- Frequently Asked Questions
Spotting Bed Bugs: Confirming the Signs
Before diving into treatment, it’s crucial to confirm the culprit:
Signs of a bed bug infestation:
- Reddish-brown bugs, 1/4 inch long, flat and oval
- Small blood stains or black specks (fecal spots) on sheets
- Musty odor near furniture or bedding
- Itchy, red bites in a line or cluster (often on arms or legs)
Tip: Use a flashlight to check seams of your mattress, couch cushions, and behind baseboards.
If you’re unsure, take a clear photo and compare it to verified sources, such as the EPA Bed Bug Identification Guide.
Emergency Steps to Take Immediately
Once you confirm the presence of bed bugs, act fast to stop them from spreading:
- Isolate the Area:
- Avoid moving bedding/clothing to other rooms.
- Keep guests and pets away from the infested zone.
- Hot Wash & Dry Bedding:
- Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water (at least 120°F).
- Dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum Thoroughly:
- Vacuum mattress seams, furniture, cracks, and floor edges.
- Empty the vacuum immediately and dispose of the bag outside.
- Declutter & Contain:
- Remove nearby clutter (magazines, clothes, boxes).
- Store in sealed plastic bins or garbage bags until treated.
Avoid using store-bought foggers, as they often disperse bed bugs further into your home.
DIY vs. Professional Help: What Really Works
Some minor infestations may be controlled with diligence, but DIY has limits:
DIY Bed Bug Methods:
- Mattress encasements
- Steam treatments (kills eggs & bugs on contact)
- Bed bug intercept traps (detects activity)
However, many over-the-counter sprays are ineffective against hidden bugs and unhatched eggs.
Why Professional Treatment Wins:
- Trained experts detect bugs in walls, outlets, and furniture.
- Heat treatments or integrated pest management ensure full eradication.
- Follow-up inspections verify complete elimination.
At Legacy Pest Control, we’ve helped hundreds of Utah homeowners eliminate bed bugs quickly and discreetly with proven strategies.
Long-Term Prevention: Keeping Them Out for Good
After treatment, prevention is key to keeping bed bugs from returning:
- Inspect secondhand furniture before bringing it inside.
- Travel smart: Always inspect the hotel mattress and keep your luggage off the bed.
- Use encasements on all mattresses and box springs.
- Vacuum weekly and reduce clutter where bugs could hide.
- Schedule regular inspections if you live in a multi-unit housing complex.
Bed bugs don’t care how clean your home is, but staying vigilant helps.
When to Call Legacy Pest Control
If you’ve spotted more than one bed bug or suspect the problem goes beyond your mattress, it’s time to bring in the pros.
We offer:
- Free inspections for Northern Utah residents
- Safe, family-friendly treatments with minimal disruption
- Discounted quarterly services to prevent future infestations
Don’t wait until the infestation spreads—we’re here to help with fast, affordable, and discreet service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stop the Spread, Start the Fix
Finding bed bugs is unsettling, but taking the proper first steps can make all the difference. Whether it’s a single sighting or a growing infestation, fast action protects your home and peace of mind.
Need help? Legacy Pest Control is here for you with local expertise, friendly service, and proven results.
Learn more about our pest control services
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