Bed Bug Awareness

Reactions can range from small red dots to itchy welts, hives, or blisters. In some cases, people develop systemic reactions such as shortness of breath, swelling, or wheezing.
Because bed bugs feed in clusters or straight lines, bites are often found:

• Along arms, shoulders, neck, and legs

• On exposed skin not covered by tight clothing

• In groups of three or more, commonly called the “breakfast, lunch, and dinner” pattern

Although bed bugs haven’t been proven to transmit disease, researchers have detected bacteria such as Rickettsia, Bartonella quintana, and MRSA inside bed bugs.
The biggest danger isn’t infection from the bugs themselves — it’s secondary or tertiary infections caused by scratching, which opens the skin to bacteria from the environment.

To reduce the risk:

• Use prescription or over-the-counter creams and antihistamines to control itching.

• Keep fingernails trimmed to avoid breaking the skin.

• Clean bites gently with soap and water; avoid alcohol or harsh cleansers.

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Free Bed Bug Inspection

Kids often scratch bites more aggressively, increasing risk of infection and spreading signs of infestation.
Parents should:

• Monitor children daily for new bites or redness.

• Wash all clothing, jackets, sweaters, and coats on high heat to prevent taking bed bugs to school.

• Keep beds moved away from walls and reduce clutter so bed bugs have fewer hiding places.

• Lower room temperature and use fewer blankets, since bed bugs are drawn to body heat.

Some essential oils like oregano, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and tea tree oil may have mild repelling effects.
However, these are not complete solutions — they only provide temporary deterrence and must be used cautiously around children and pets.

Diatomaceous earth (DE) can help when used correctly:

• Apply only to crack and crevice nesting areas, not as a blanket coating.

• Overuse makes DE airborne and inhalable, which can irritate lungs over time.

• Moisture, including steam cleaning, will render DE useless because desiccant dusts only work when dry.

• Avoid steam cleaning mattresses or carpets — added moisture can actually increase breeding conditions and deactivate all drying agents.

1. Don’t scratch — it prolongs healing and risks infection.

2. Use calming creams (calamine, hydrocortisone, or antihistamines).

3. Vacuum mattresses, baseboards, and furniture seams often.

4. Eliminate clutter and wash bedding weekly on high heat.

5. Avoid moisture buildup and don’t steam after treatment.

6. Call a professional — self-treatment rarely eliminates the full population.

Hi-Tech Pest Control has spent over 40 years perfecting bed bug eradication, protecting Michigan homes with same-day service and a 100% elimination guarantee.
Our technicians know that solving the bite problem means eliminating the bugs, not just soothing the symptoms.

We specialize in salvaging furniture, protecting your home, and educating customers so they can stop infestations permanently.

📞 Call today for your Free Bed Bug Inspection
Serving Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Livingston, and Washtenaw Counties