Do Bed Bugs Ruin Mattresses?
Bed bugs are small, flat insects that live in beds and mattresses. The warmth and moisture from the human body attracts them to these areas. Clutter can also provide them with additional hiding places. This makes it more difficult to get rid of the bed bugs. Unlike other insects, bed bugs are not social and do not build nests.
To tell if you have bed bugs, inspect the mattress thoroughly. Check for evidence of the insects’ presence, such as bites and nymphs. You might notice the presence of eggs or cast skins. If you find any of these, you may need to get a professional to inspect the bed.
You can also try using diatomaceous earth to control the bugs. Diatomaceous earth acts as an insect repellent and kills the bugs that live in it. However, it must be used on a dry mattress. Using mint leaves won’t kill the bugs but will prevent them from coming into the bed. Crushed mint leaves can be placed around entry points or on the mattress itself. Peppermint leaves, which are similar to lavender, are also effective.
The most common way to prevent bed bugs from entering your mattress is to use a bed bug encasement. It will protect your mattress from bedbug attacks for approximately one and a half years. If the encasement isn’t resistant to the bugs, you may need to buy a new one. Bed bugs are attracted to dust, dirt, and other areas where they live.