A Survivor’s Take: Lessons from Years of Bed Bug Battles

by K
(Phoenix, Arizona U.S.A.)

Learn From My Bed Bug Experience

An absolute nightmare! Over the course of about 4years and 2 infestations in different locations Ive become somewhat of an expert. Along with the social effects and other problems mentioned on this site are some which I have not seen listed.

The pain amd itch from a bite is enough to wake you up and literally drive you insane from exhaustion. You feel trapped, helpless, infuriated, gross, isolated and ultimately can push you to the brink of suicide. They are an absolute scourge the likes of which I wouldnt wish upon my worst enemy!

Apparently some people are not allergic to the bedbug saliva and as a result never feel a bite and if you are one of these people thank your higher power for that, but don't discount other housemates reports of bites or symptoms.

My mom is not allergic and she thought I was becoming delusional with my up at night with flashlight and tweezer routine up until I was able to capture one of these nasty ninjas for her to see for herself.

As for looks, the adult bug itself looks like a tiny reddish brown apple seed. They usually hide closer than youd expect, usually under the first seem of mattresses or pillows. Either to mate or when in danger (Im unsure) they put off a noticeable woodlike scent that is most closely like that of the spice cumin.

The most helpful treatments in my opinion is disposal of clothes and furniture and heat. They die when exposed to above 130 deg F. In most places the sun itself is not hot enough so the suggestion that just bagging up clothes and putting outside is unhelpful.

I purchased a heat gun like that is used for shrink wrapping from harbor freight for about $15 and it is my most helpful ally (editors note - we do not endorse the use of heat guns to kill bed bugs as they can potentially cause a fire and do not heat deep enough into cracks and crevices when eliminating larger infestations, instead hire a professional. If you want to try heatment try a steamer or hair dryer). Also constant vacuuming as they can and will feed off bodys of dead bedbugs. The problem is that by the time they are big and plentiful enough for you to be able to see one you have got a full blow infestation on your hands. Remember that it nothing to be embarrassed about, it doesn't mean your unclean or unhealthy. The little bastards don't discriminate.

Good luck with your battles.
K from Phoenix,AZ

A Survivor’s Take: Lessons from Years of Bed Bug Battles

Thank you, K for sharing your experience and hard-earned wisdom. Your post sheds light on the emotional, physical, and practical struggles of dealing with bed bugs—something many readers can relate to or learn from. Let’s highlight some of the key points you mentioned and add a few thoughts that might help others in a similar situation.

The Emotional Toll of Bed Bugs

You’ve perfectly captured the emotional impact of a bed bug infestation. The feelings of helplessness, exhaustion, and isolation are all too common. It’s critical to remember, as you pointed out, that an infestation is not a reflection of cleanliness or personal fault. Bed bugs don’t discriminate—they simply seek out a blood meal.

Identifying Bed Bugs

Your descriptions of bed bugs are spot on:

• Appearance: Adult bed bugs are reddish-brown and about the size of an apple seed.


• Hiding Spots: They’re often found in mattress seams, pillow edges, or other close, hidden areas.


• Smell: That “wood-like” or cumin-like scent can be a clue of their presence, especially during a large infestation.

The Allergy Factor

The point you raised about some people not reacting to bed bug bites is incredibly important. Many infestations go unnoticed for extended periods because not everyone is allergic to bed bug saliva. It’s crucial to take household members’ reports of bites seriously and investigate thoroughly if there’s suspicion.

Your Recommended Treatments

Your practical advice offers great value to others facing an infestation:

• Heat Treatment: Bed bugs cannot survive temperatures above 130°F. We do not recommend using a heat gun. While it can technically kill bed bugs on direct content due to its high temperature, using it as the primary method to kill bed bugs infestations is not recommended as it could be dangerous and is somewhat impractical. The gun only heats the surface and doesn't reach deep crevices where bed bugs hide, making it ineffective for full room treatment. Instead the gest approach for larger infestations is professional treatment using a combination of heat, freezing sprays or insecticides.


• Disposal: Sometimes, it’s necessary to dispose of infested furniture and clothing, especially when the infestation is severe.


• Vacuuming: Consistent vacuuming is essential, not only to remove live bugs but also to clean up dead ones that can serve as a food source for others.

Additional Tips for Others

While you’ve covered a lot, here are a few additional tips for anyone struggling with bed bugs:

• Professional Help: If the infestation is too overwhelming, professional pest control services can apply heat treatment or insecticides to address the issue more thoroughly.


• Bed Bug Interceptors: Place interceptors under bed legs to monitor and trap bed bugs trying to climb up.


• Encasements: Use bed bug-proof mattress and pillow encasements to trap bugs and prevent reinfestation.

Your story is a reminder of how relentless bed bugs can be, but also of how persistence and the right tools can make a difference. Sharing your experience is not only cathartic but also incredibly helpful to others navigating this frustrating problem. Thank you for your honesty and practical advice—your voice makes a difference in this fight. Good luck with any future battles, and thank you for being part of the community!

Jeff
Editor and Publisher
Bed Bugs Handbook