Bedbugs are one of the most misunderstood pests, leading to widespread myths about how they spread, how to get rid of them, and what actually attracts them. Misinformation can make an infestation worse, causing homeowners to waste time and money on ineffective solutions. If you live in South Florida, where bedbugs thrive due to the warm climate, it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction to protect your home.
Believing the wrong information could mean ignoring an infestation until it’s out of control. Let’s debunk some of the most common bedbug myths and reveal the truth behind these elusive pests.
Myth #1: Bedbugs Only Infest Dirty Homes
Fact: Cleanliness has nothing to do with bedbug infestations. Unlike cockroaches, which thrive in filth, bedbugs are not attracted to dirt or leftover food. Instead, they seek out warm environments and human blood. Even the most spotless homes, luxury hotels, and high-end apartments can become infested.
Bedbugs hitchhike from hotels, airplanes, furniture, and even clothing. Once inside, they spread quickly, hiding in crevices, bedding, and upholstered furniture. The only thing that determines whether you get bedbugs is exposure to an infested area—not how clean your home is.
Myth #2: You Can Feel Bedbugs Crawling on You at Night
Fact: Bedbugs are masters of stealth. They inject an anesthetic into the skin before biting, so you won’t feel them while they feed. Most people only notice the problem when they wake up with itchy red welts, often in a line or cluster.
This delayed reaction is why many infestations go undetected for weeks or even months. If you suspect bedbugs but don’t see them, it’s essential to get a professional inspection to confirm their presence before they multiply.
Myth #3: Bedbugs Only Live in Beds
Fact: While bedbugs are commonly found in mattresses, box springs, and bed frames, they don’t just stay there. They hide in:
- Couches, chairs, and rugs
- Electrical outlets and light switches
- Baseboards, nightstands, and wallpaper
- Luggage, backpacks, and clothing
If you only check your bed, you might miss a growing infestation. That’s why a thorough inspection by a pest control expert is the best way to find all their hiding spots.
Myth #4: Bedbugs Can Jump or Fly
Fact: Bedbugs cannot jump or fly. They crawl slowly and rely on hitchhiking to spread. They move from place to place by clinging to luggage, clothing, or secondhand furniture. This is why travelers often bring them home unknowingly.
Since they don’t fly or jump, proper treatment must target their hiding spots—not just open spaces. Foggers and sprays that don’t reach deep crevices are ineffective, which is why DIY methods rarely work.
Myth #5: DIY Sprays and Foggers Eliminate Bedbugs
Fact: Store-bought sprays and foggers rarely eliminate a bedbug infestation. These treatments might kill a few bugs on the surface, but they don’t reach the deep hiding spots where eggs and nymphs are growing.
Even worse, some DIY treatments cause bedbugs to scatter, making the infestation spread to new areas of your home. The most effective way to get rid of them is with a professional inspection and targeted treatment that ensures all bedbugs—adults, nymphs, and eggs—are eliminated.
Myth #6: Bedbugs Carry Diseases
Fact: Unlike mosquitoes or ticks, bedbugs do not transmit diseases to humans. However, their bites can cause severe itching, allergic reactions, and even secondary infections from excessive scratching.
Additionally, bedbug infestations often lead to stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, which can affect overall well-being. Getting rid of them quickly is essential—not just for comfort, but for your mental and physical health.
The Truth: Professional Inspections Are the Best Defense
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is assuming they can handle bedbugs on their own. The truth is that early detection and professional treatment are the only reliable ways to eliminate them.
At Toro Pest Management, we offer FREE bedbug inspections to help you determine whether you have an infestation and what steps are needed to remove them. Our experts use state-of-the-art detection methods to identify bedbugs before they spread.
Schedule Your Free Inspection Today
Don’t let bedbug myths keep you from taking action. If you suspect an infestation, contact Toro Pest Management today for a FREE inspection. The sooner you act, the easier it is to eliminate bedbugs and protect your home from a growing problem.