Understanding Bed Bugs and Itching: Insights and Solutions
Intro
Understanding the nuisances of bed bugs is about more than just knowing their itch-inducing bite. It's a journey into a realm where humans and pests collide within the confines of domestic spaces. This exploration is paramount for everyoneāespecially for homemakers and property owners concerned with hygiene and comfort.
Bed bugs, like uninvited guests, can devastate a peaceful night's sleep. Their bites, often leading to severe itching and discomfort, serve as the hallmark of their unwelcome presence. But how did we get to this point? Grasping the underlying factors that contribute to the prevalence of bed bugs and understanding their biological traits provides a clear basis for our approach in dealing with them.
As we step further into this topic, we must consider what's at stake. Beyond just the annoyance, there are implications for health, home management, and even psychological well-being. Thus, exploring the world of bed bugs and their association with itching beckons a serious discussion about prevention and eradication. Understanding this issue isn't just beneficialāit's essential for maintaining a harmonious living environment.
Understanding Pests
Definition of Pests
Pests are often defined as organisms that harm human health or adversely affect our living spaces. This category generally covers insects, rodents, and everything from weeds in the garden to mold in the attic. Bed bugs, specifically, belong to the Cimex lectularius family, and thrive where humans dwell, particularly in sleeping areas. They are small, brownish insects that typically come out at night to feed on human blood.
Importance of Pest Identification
Identifying pests is crucial for effective management. Not all bugs are harmful, but accurate identification helps in determining the right course of action. A common mistake homeowners make is overlooking early signs of infestation, thinking theyāre mere isolated incidents. Early signs include:
- Bite marks on skin ā often results in unexplained itching.
- Dark spots on bedding or walls ā fecal matter from these critters.
- Shed skins or eggs ā a sign of established presence.
By recognizing these indicators, timely measures can be taken to prevent a full-blown infestation.
Prevention Techniques
Home and Garden Preventative Measures
Keeping a bed bug-free home involves proactive measures. Here are some key strategies:
- Seal cracks and crevices ā makes it harder for pests to enter.
- Use mattress and box spring encasements ā acts as a barrier.
- Vacuum regularly ā target carpets, bedding, and furniture.
- Reduce clutter ā less hiding spots for these critters.
- Inspect second-hand furniture carefully ā always check before bringing items indoors.
Seasonal Prevention Tips
Seasonal changes can impact pest behavior. When the weather turns colder, bed bugs may seek shelter indoors. To counter this, consider:
- Regular inspections during spring cleaning ā this is an ideal time to assess your home.
- Monitoring travel during vacation seasons ā hotels and motels can be a breeding ground. The idea is to always be one step ahead.
Eco-Friendly Pest Control Solutions
Overview of Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is more than just a buzzwordāit's a practical approach to pest control. Eco-friendly methods reduce harmful chemical usage while still effectively managing pests. For bed bugs, various options are available like heat treatment or using diatomaceous earth, a substance that dehydrates and kills bugs on contact.
Natural Remedies and Their Effectiveness
Many options exist for those wary of traditional pesticides. Some of the natural remedies include:
- Essential oils ā certain scents, like lavender and tea tree oil, have repellent properties.
- Vinegar can disrupt bed bugsā natural behavior when sprayed directly.
- Boric acid acts as an effective insecticide and is safe for humans when used correctly.
Choosing these methods can be beneficial for your family and the environment, which makes long-term pest management sustainable.
"The best defense is a good offense. Keeping your home clean and organized is your first step in preventing any kind of infestation."
By grasping the biological intricacies of bed bugs, we arm ourselves with the knowledge to tackle any issues head-on, ensuring our homes remain safe, comfortable, and pest-free.
Prelude to Bed Bugs
Understanding bed bugs is crucial for anyone who values a peaceful night's sleep. These pests, while often unnoticed, can lead to significant discomfort and stress. They are not just a nuisance; their presence in a living space can spark feelings of anxiety and concern about personal hygiene and safety. This section aims to shed light on the basics of bed bugs, offering insights into their characteristics, life cycle, and preferred habitats.
What are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects, about the size of an apple seed. They belong to the Cimex lectularius species and are notorious for feeding on human blood. Unlike mosquitoes, who can be heard buzzing around, bed bugs are silent predators, which makes them especially sneaky. They are mostly active at night, with a bite that often goes unnoticed until itās too late. Their ability to hide in small cracks and crevices makes eradication quite a challenge. Understanding what bed bugs are is the first step in combating their infestation.
Life Cycle of Bed Bugs
The life cycle of bed bugs is quite fascinating and consists of several stages:
- Eggs: Female bed bugs lay about 1-5 eggs per day, which hatch in about a week.
- Nymphs: After hatching, bed bugs enter the nymph stage. These nymphs molt through five stages before maturing into adults. They require blood meals at each stage to grow.
- Adults: Mature bed bugs can live for several months, even up to a year, with access to blood. They don't need to feed every day, which aids in their survival in uninfested areas for long periods.
This cycle allows bed bugs to multiply quickly, turning a small problem into a full-blown infestation if left unchecked.
Common Habitats for Bed Bugs
Bed bugs tend to establish themselves in places where people frequently rest or sleep. Understanding their habitats can significantly assist in prevention efforts. Common hiding spots include:
- Beds: Mattresses, box springs, and bed frames are classic locales.
- Furniture: Couches, chairs, and other upholstered furniture can harbor these pests.
- Cracks and Crevices: Baseboards, nightstands, and even wallpaper can serve as perfect hiding spots.
Due to their penchant for human environments, bed bugs can easily hitch a ride on clothing, luggage, or furniture, making traveling a common risk factor for infestations. Itās wisdom well-beyond mere knowledge to be vigilant in inspecting your surroundings, whether at home or away.
"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Understanding the behaviors and habitats of bed bugs can greatly reduce the chances of an infestation.
The Science Behind Bed Bug Bites
Understanding the intricate mechanisms of how bed bugs bite is crucial in comprehending their impact on human health. The significance of studying the science behind these bites extends beyond mere curiosity; it allows individuals to recognize the immediate physiological reactions and the longer-term repercussions of infestations. This knowledge can empower homeowners and pest management professionals to adopt effective strategies for both prevention and management of bed bug encounters. When we dissect the process of feeding and the role of saliva in these bites, we will see that knowledge is a powerful tool against these unwelcome nocturnal visitors.
How Bed Bugs Feed
Bed bugs are notorious for their stealthy feeding habits. They typically commence their feeding during the night, capitalizing on the fact that their human hosts are in a deep sleep. The feeding process begins when a bed bug pierces the skin using its specialized mouthparts, an adaptation that has evolved over time to allow it to access the bloodstream with minimal detection.
- Feeding Duration: A bed bug can feed for about 3 to 10 minutes, during which it remains attached to its host, drawing blood. The time taken can depend on various factors such as the bug's hunger level and the host's movement.
- Location Preference: Bed bugs prefer areas where the skin is thinner, often opting for places like the arms, neck, or legs, to minimize the risk of detection.
- While Feeding: The bugs inject saliva into the host, which acts as a natural anticoagulant, preventing blood from clotting and allowing for a smoother feeding process.
This unique feeding behavior has significant implications for how individuals might respond to bites. While some might hardly notice the feeding, others may have a more pronounced reaction due to individual sensitivities.
Saliva Components and Their Effect
The saliva of a bed bug contains a cocktail of various components that serve multiple roles, primarily to facilitate feeding and to evade the host's immune responses. These elements can influence the severity of a person's reaction to bites and contribute to the infamous itching that follows.
- Anticoagulants: As mentioned, bed bugs introduce anticoagulants via their saliva. This property explains why bites can cause persistent bleeding and why some individuals notice small blood spots on their sheets after a feeding session.
- Vasoactive Compounds: These compounds cause blood vessels to dilate, contributing to the swelling and redness often observed around the bite area. This response can last several hours or even days, making it essential to understand the longer-term effects of multiple bites.
- Proteins and Enzymes: The proteins present can trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, leading to intense itching and discomfort. Different people have varied thresholds for these reactions, highlighting the subjective nature of how bites are perceived.
"Understanding the constituents of bed bug saliva is vital for managing symptoms and anticipating reactions that vary widely among different individuals.ā
In summary, the science behind bed bug bites is a complex interplay of feeding strategies and biochemical interactions. Recognizing how these pests operate provides invaluable insights for effectively addressing and mitigating the problems they pose.
Do Bed Bugs Cause Itching?
Understanding whether bed bugs cause itching is critical for anyone who might find themselves grappling with these unwelcome pests. Bed bugs might just be tiny creatures, but their bites pack a punch when it comes to discomfort. This section aims to unpack the experiences associated with bites, illuminating immediate reactions as well as individual differences in sensitivity. The focus here isnāt just on scratching those pesky itches but understanding the why behind them.
Immediate Reactions to Bed Bug Bites
When a bed bug bites, the immediate reaction can range widely from person to person. Some might feel a slight prick or sting, while others could experience a more pronounced burning sensation. The body's defenses kick in once it detects the foreign saliva introduced by the bug during feeding. This saliva contains anticoagulants which prevent blood clotting, allowing the creature to feast without interruption. This can lead to a cascade of reactions, primarily itching.
- Rash Formation: Some individuals might break out into a rash, which usually appears as small, raised welts that can vary in size.
- Redness and Swelling: The skin around the bite site often reddens and swells, leading to discomfort which is often intensified by trying to scratch the areaāthis is a common reaction among many.
- Duration of Itching: Itching can persist for days after the initial bite, and scratching may aggravate the situation, increasing the chance of secondary infections.
A study showed that nearly 70% of people experience some reaction to bed bug bites, although the severity varies significantly across individuals.
"Understanding your bodyās response not only helps in managing discomfort, but also is vital in preventing further issues like infection."
Factors Influencing Itching
Not everyone reacts the same way to bed bug bites, making the question of itching even more complex. Various factors can influence how intensely a person might itch after they're bitten:
- Allergy Sensitivity: Some folks are simply more allergic to bed bug saliva. For these individuals, even a single bite can trigger a severe reaction.
- Frequency of Exposure: Those who frequently encounter bed bugs might develop a tolerance, leading to milder responses over time. Conversely, someone who hasn't been bitten before might react more violently due to an untrained immune system.
- Skin Condition: Individuals with pre-existing skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, could find that their skin reacts more dramatically to bed bug bites.
- Immune Response Variability: The immune system is a tricky beast. Some people just have a stronger immune response, leading to heavier swelling and itching than others.
- Age and Health: Young children and the elderly can have different reactions due to variations in skin sensitivity and overall health.
In wrapping up this segment, one can see that while bed bugs certainly cause itching, the extent and nature of that itching depend on a range of personal factors. Homeowners should stay aware of these variables to better understand their plight with these tiny bloodsuckers.
Individual Responses to Bed Bug Bites
When considering the implications of bed bug bites, individual responses play a crucial role in understanding the broader impacts these pests can have on human health. Each person can react differently to the bite of a bed bug, influenced by a variety of factors such as their immune system and prior exposure to these insects. This section explores the allergic reactions to the components of bed bug saliva and the variability in skin sensitivity, illuminating how these reactions can differ greatly from one individual to another.
Allergic Reactions to Bed Bug Saliva
The saliva of bed bugs contains proteins that affect how our bodies react when bitten. For some, this reaction is minimal, but for others, it can trigger significant allergic responses. Individuals who have been bitten multiple times may develop a heightened sensitivity over time, resulting in more severe itching and swelling. The immune system identifies the saliva as a threat, leading to an inflammatory response. This is why some people may find small bites very itchy, while others might not even notice them.
A study indicates that allergic reactions can vary widely among individuals, with some experiencing localized swelling and others facing full-blown rashes or systemic reactions.
The severity of the allergic reaction can hinge on various factors:
- Previous Exposure: Those who have encountered bed bugs before may react strongly the next time.
- Immune System Health: A compromised or overactive immune system can amplify these reactions.
- Genetic Predisposition: Certain genetic traits may make individuals more prone to allergic responses.
Understanding these allergic reactions is fundamental for effective treatment and managementāparticularly for those living in environments prone to bed bug problems.
Variability in Skin Sensitivity
Skin sensitivity plays a pivotal role in how bed bug bites are perceived and reacted to by different individuals. The same bite can elicit very different responses based on the individualās skin type, age, and health condition. For instance, children and the elderly often have more sensitive skin and may experience more pronounced reactions, such as redness and swelling.
Several factors can influence this variability:
- Skin Type: Thinner skin types typically will show more irritation and require careful attention.
- Age: Younger people, specifically children, tend to react more severely in some cases, while older individuals might have less sensitivity due to aging skin.
- Underlying Skin Conditions: Individuals with eczema or psoriasis, for example, may find that bites exacerbate their existing skin issues.
This variability points to the necessity for personalized responses when it comes to managing bed bug bites.
Preventing Bed Bug Infestations
Preventing bed bug infestations is crucial, particularly for homeowners who wish to maintain a comfortable living environment. These pests are not just a nuisance; they can cause significant psychological distress and can lead to complications like allergic reactions or secondary infections from scratching. Taking proactive steps can mean the difference between a peaceful home and an ongoing battle against these tiny, unwelcome intruders.
By understanding the nature of bed bugs and the environments in which they thrive, one can take preemptive measures to minimize the risk of infestation. In this section, we will explore several key strategies that can help prevent bed bugs from making a home in your living space.
Regular Cleaning and Inspection Practices
Regular cleaning and inspection are the bedrock of effective bed bug prevention. Keeping your home tidy not only deters pests but also allows for swift identification of any potential infestation.
- Vacuum often: Make it a habit to vacuum your home frequently, particularly in areas often targeted by bed bugs, such as bedrooms and living rooms. Pay attention to the seams of furniture, under cushions, and around baseboards. Consider using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap bed bugs and their eggs effectively.
- Wash bedding and clothing regularly: Hot water is your ally in this fight. Washing sheets, pillowcases, and other linens in temperatures above 120Ā°F (49Ā°C) can kill bed bugs at all life stages. Donāt forget about clothing that may have been in direct contact with infested areas.
- Inspect second-hand items: Before bringing second-hand furniture or clothing into your home, inspect them thoroughly. Do not hesitate to ask questions about their history. Even a seemingly innocent piece of furniture can serve as a mode of transport for these pests.
Frequent inspection is equally important. As the saying goes, āan ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.ā Conducting routine checks on mattresses, box springs, and other areas where bed bugs are likely to hide can lead to early detection and, subsequently, a less exhaustive extermination process.
Understanding Risk Factors in the Environment
Understanding the environmentās risk factors that contribute to potential infestations is another aspect of effective prevention. Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers, often entering homes through various means. Here are a few elements to consider:
- Travel: Hotels, hostels, and public transport are common breeding grounds for bed bugs. When traveling, take a moment to check your sleeping area for signs of bed bugs, such as dark stains or shed skins. Store your luggage on racks instead of on the bed or floor to minimize contact.
- Clutter: A cluttered home provides ideal hiding spots for bed bugs. The more items you have laying around, the harder it is to spot a potential infestation. Minimizing clutter in your home will make it easier to maintain cleanliness and surveillance.
- Shared living spaces: Living in an apartment or other multi-tenant buildings increases the risk of infestation through shared walls, floors, and communal areas. Forming a community strategy can be beneficialāif one unit becomes infested, others may follow.
- Seasonal changes: Bed bugs tend to be more active in spring and summer months, coinciding with increased travel. Keeping this in mind can help you remain vigilant during these times.
"Taking precaution is easier than dealing with an infestation later. Regular checks and cleaning are your best defense against bed bugs.ā
By addressing both cleaning practices and environmental risk factors, homeowners can significantly reduce the chances of bed bug infestations. Prevention is far more effective than trying to tackle a full-blown infestation. Your home and peace of mind are worth the effort.
Managing the Effects of Bed Bug Bites
Dealing with the aftermath of bed bug bites can be an uphill battle. The bites might not just be an irritation but can lead to broader implications, affecting oneās physical comfort and mental well-being. Hence, understanding how to manage these effects is crucial for anyone who finds themselves dealing with these pesky invaders. Not only does effective management minimize discomfort, it also ensures that individuals do not fall into a cycle of increasing irritation and anxiety, which can easily spiral out of control.
Over-the-Counter Remedies for Itching
When it comes to addressing the irritation caused by bed bug bites, many people first turn to over-the-counter remedies. Fortunately, a variety of options can help soothe the incessant itching. Here are several solutions:
- Hydrocortisone Cream: A common anti-inflammatory ointment that can reduce redness and swelling. Apply sparingly to the affected area to avoid skin thinning.
- Antihistamines: Such as diphenhydramine, which block the histamine response and help relieve itching. Be cautioned about drowsiness, though; it can knock you out!
- Calamine Lotion: Known for its gentle soothing qualities, this can dry out any oozing and offer relief for the itching.
- Baking Soda Paste: Mixing baking soda with water could offer a little DIY remedy. Apply the paste to bites to diminish the itch.
When using any of these products, it's essential to follow the instructions so you don't create more issues than you solve. It's also good practice to spot test a small skin area before applying any new product broadly.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many bed bug bites can be managed at home, there are times when you should consider consulting a healthcare professional. If you notice severe reactions or the following symptoms, it might be time to pick up the phone:
- Intense Redness or Swelling: If the bite area expands or becomes extremely painful, that could signal an infection.
- Worsening Itchiness: If home remedies fail to alleviate itching or it becomes unbearable, seeking help is advisable.
- Systemic Reactions: Difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling in other parts of the body might indicate an allergic reaction that needs immediate medical attention.
Bed bugs might be little, but their bites can have significant effects on your life. Managing these effects with the right remedies and knowing when to see a doctor can make a world of difference, ensuring that you donāt just survive but thrive in a bed bug-free environment.
Remember, addressing the problem at the first sign of bites can save you from a lot of discomfort later on.
For more information, consider checking resources such as Wikipedia or Britannica.
By understanding available methods for relief and recognizing when professional help is needed, the threat of bed bugs can surely be managed more effectively.
Home Remedies for Bed Bug Bite Relief
Home remedies for bed bug bite relief play a crucial role in managing the discomfort caused by these pesky pests. Understanding these alternatives can empower homeowners to address the immediate itching and irritation associated with bites without necessarily relying solely on over-the-counter medications or prescriptions.
While professional treatments for bed bug infestations are essential, the immediate effects of bites can disturb oneās peace of mind. Home remedies offer some relief before more extensive measures can be taken. Moreover, these options are often more accessible, cost-effective, and made with natural ingredients, which is particularly appealing to households sensitive to chemical products.
Natural Anti-itch Solutions
Natural anti-itch solutions provide effective and soothing relief to ease the discomfort brought on by bed bug bites. Here are some common remedies:
- Aloe Vera: This plant is often regarded as nature's pain-reliever. The gel extracted from its leaves is well-known for its cooling effect, which can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritation.
- Oatmeal Bath: Adding finely ground oatmeal to a warm bath can calm the skin. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can significantly alleviate itching and redness, making it perfect for those seeking comfort from multiple bites.
- Baking Soda Paste: A paste made from baking soda and water can be applied directly to the bite site. It acts like a mild exfoliant, absorbing moisture and helping to reduce swelling.
- Tea Tree Oil: This oil is not only a natural antiseptic but it can also help alleviate itching when diluted with a carrier oil. A few drops applied to the bites may provide relief while also minimizing the risk of infection.
These remedies not only address the symptom of itching but also harness the healing properties of natural ingredients, which can be especially useful for children or those with sensitive skin.
Effective Cool Compress Techniques
Using cool compresses is a simple yet effective method for immediate relief from itching. Hereās how to do it:
- Cold Water Cloth: Dampen a clean cloth with cold water and place it on the affected areas. The coldness can help numb the pain and reduce inflammation.
- Ice Pack: Wrap ice in a cloth (to avoid direct skin contact, which can cause frostbite) and apply it to the bites for periods of 10-15 minutes. This can significantly reduce swelling and provide temporary pain relief.
- Cucumber Slices: Cucumber has natural cooling properties. Place cool cucumber slices on the bite area for soothing relief. This is more than just a home remedy; itās a refreshing approach that can also hydrate the skin.
- Frozen Vegetables: In a pinch, a bag of frozen peas or corn can serve as an effective make-shift ice pack as well. Just ensure they are wrapped in a cloth before applying to the skin.
By using these cool compress techniques, individuals not only address the unease of body reactions but also methodically handle the itch while simultaneously minimizing the potential for further irritation. Effective management of bed bug bites can make a world of difference in maintaining comfort in one's living space.
Long-term Impacts of Bed Bug Infestation
Understanding the long-term impacts of bed bug infestations is crucial not just for households but also for public health considerations. With the resurgence of these pests in various environments, it becomes imperative to grasp how they can affect our lives beyond the immediate discomfort of bites. Persistent infestations can lead to various consequences that may linger long after the visible signs have been dealt with. Thus, this section serves as a deep dive into the lasting effects of such invasions, shedding light on their psychological, environmental, and social dimensions.
Mental Health Effects of Infestation
Bed bugs can be more than just a nuisance; the mental health ramifications of an infestation can be profound. Individuals often experience elevated levels of stress and anxiety during and after infestations. The constant worry about bites, repeated sleepless nights, and the stigma associated with having these pests can lead to feelings of isolation and distress.
In some cases, those affected might develop insomnia or other sleep-related issues due to the psychological burden of being on high alert. Such prolonged anxiety can have ripple effects, filtering into both personal and professional lives of individuals.
- Fear of Bites: This heightened awareness often leads to obsessive checking of beds, clothing, and personal items, which in turn escalates stress levels.
- Social Withdrawal: Some individuals may isolate themselves to avoid embarrassment over perceived cleanliness issues.
- Severity of Impact: Research suggests that longer infestations correlate with more severe mental health issues. Itās not just about the bites; itās about the entire living situation and lifestyle changes that come with this unwanted guests.
"A bed bug infestation can turn a comfortable home into a place of fear - one where rest is elusive and anxiety thrives."
These factors indicate that the psychological toll can be as significant as the physical discomfort, showing the importance of addressing mental health alongside pest management efforts.
Implications for Living Spaces
The implications of bed bug infestations stretch beyond personal discomfort and mental stress; they can significantly alter oneās living environment. These pests tend to affect not just the immediate area of infestation but can also impact the overall quality of living in numerous ways.
- Compromised Comfort: Living spaces might become havens of anxiety rather than sanctuaries of relaxation. Furniture, bedding, and even clothing can become suspect, leading to lifestyle modifications for the inhabitants.
- Property Value: Homes that have been infested can see declines in property value, as potential buyers may shy away from homes with past bed bug issues. This stigma can linger even after successful extermination, affecting long-term investment potential.
- Resale Challenges: Reselling a property that has a history of bed bug infestations can be an uphill battle, often requiring disclosing previous issues that may frighten off potential buyers.
The collective impact of these factors illustrates the importance of preventative measures for homeowners. A proactive stance against infestations not only safeguards physical comfort but also protects mental well-being and financial investments in living spaces. Understanding these long-term implications equips housewives and homeowners with the tools necessary for maintaining healthy environments.
Epilogue
Understanding the dynamics between bed bugs and the discomfort of itching is critical for anyone dealing with infestations. Itās not just about a few bites; the repercussions stretch far beyond the skin. Recognizing how these pests act and what they leave behind can arm homeowners with the knowledge they need to prevent them from making a home in their living spaces.
Recap of Bed Bug Itching
Itching due to bed bug bites is the bodyās response to the proteins and anticoagulants found in the pest's saliva. This reaction can vary greatly. For some, a single bite results in mild irritation while for others, it can lead to significant discomfort and even secondary infections from scratching.
- Histamine release: When a bed bug bites, it injects saliva into the skin, prompting the immune system to respond.
- Variability of response: Factors like individual skin sensitivity and overall health can cause people to respond differently to the same bite.
- Scarring risk: Persistent scratching can lead to skin lesions, increasing the chance of bacterial infections and complications.
Understanding these responses helps in effectively managing the consequences of bites.
Future Perspectives on Bed Bug Management
As pest control methods evolve, so do the strategies to combat bed bugs. Future treatments might include not only targeted insecticides but also biological solutions that minimize environmental impact. Here are some trends to watch out for:
- Innovative insecticides: New formulations will likely be developed that target bed bugs without harming beneficial insects.
- Heat treatments: Using heat to kill bed bugs is already gaining traction, and advancements in this field can provide homeowners with an effective, chemical-free solution.
- Education and awareness: Greater emphasis on educating the public about prevention methods can lead to proactive measures rather than reactive ones. Keeping beds and surrounding areas clean can essentially barricade against these unwelcome invaders.
