How Bed Bug Infestations Are Rising in Sacramento & What to Do About It

Posted by Gordon Damon on January 10th, 2025

In recent years, Sacramento has witnessed a troubling rise in bed bug infestations, affecting homes, apartments, and businesses such as hotels and motels. These small, blood-sucking pests are notorious for being both difficult to detect and highly resilient. As Sacramento experiences an increase in these infestations, it is becoming increasingly important for residents and business owners to understand the risks posed by bed bugs, the reasons behind their rise, and how professional pest control services, such as a Commercial Exterminator in San Benito, can help effectively manage and eradicate these infestations. This article will explore the factors contributing to the growing problem, the challenges of DIY solutions, and the benefits of seeking professional help for bed bug control.

The Rise of Bed Bug Infestations in Sacramento

Bed bugs, which were once nearly eradicated in the United States by the mid-20th century, have made a surprising and disturbing comeback in the last few decades. This resurgence has affected cities across the country, including Sacramento, where residents and businesses alike are grappling with this persistent issue. The following factors are largely responsible for the increase in bed bug infestations in Sacramento:

1. Increased Travel and Tourism

Sacramento, like many major cities, has a thriving tourism industry, with visitors regularly traveling for business, leisure, and events. Hotels, motels, and vacation rentals are often hotbeds for bed bug activity, as these pests can hitch a ride on luggage, clothing, or furniture. When travelers unknowingly carry bed bugs from one location to another, they spread the infestation to new areas, including homes and businesses.

While hotels and motels are the most commonly associated locations for bed bug infestations, any high-traffic area where people frequently come and go is at risk. Sacramento’s hotels, apartments, and shared spaces can easily become targets for bed bugs due to the constant movement of people and belongings.

2. Increased Globalization and Transportation

The increase in international travel and the global movement of goods has also contributed to the spread of bed bugs. With more people and products moving across borders, the likelihood of bed bugs being transported from one place to another has grown significantly. Bed bugs can easily hitch a ride on suitcases, clothing, furniture, or even shipping containers, making it possible for them to travel long distances and infest new areas, such as Sacramento.

Sacramento is particularly susceptible to bed bug issues due to its proximity to major transportation hubs, including airports, bus terminals, and railroads. As goods and people continue to move through the area, the risk of bed bug infestations follows suit.

3. Lack of Awareness and Education

In many cases, the public’s lack of awareness about bed bugs exacerbates the problem. Bed bugs are not easy to detect, as they hide in small cracks, crevices, and seams of furniture, mattresses, and walls. They are nocturnal creatures that feed primarily at night, and their bites are often mistaken for other types of insect bites, such as those from mosquitoes. As a result, infestations may go unnoticed for an extended period, allowing them to spread undetected.

The misconception that bed bugs are only found in unsanitary environments also contributes to the issue. Bed bugs can infest any property, regardless of its cleanliness. This means that even well-maintained homes and businesses in Sacramento are vulnerable to infestations, especially if bed bugs are introduced inadvertently through travel, second-hand furniture, or other means.

The Dangers of Bed Bug Infestations

Bed bugs may seem harmless at first glance, but the risks they pose should not be underestimated. While they do not transmit diseases like some other pests, bed bugs can cause significant discomfort, anxiety, and financial loss. The following are some of the key dangers associated with bed bug infestations:

1. Health Risks

The most immediate health concern with bed bug infestations is the allergic reactions they can trigger. Bed bug bites can cause red, itchy welts on the skin, and in some cases, these bites may lead to more severe reactions, including swelling and skin infections. For those with heightened sensitivities, a bed bug bite could also lead to more serious complications, including anaphylaxis, though this is rare.

Additionally, while bed bugs do not directly spread diseases, they can still create an environment that encourages secondary infections. Scratching bites can break the skin, leading to potential bacterial infections.

2. Emotional and Psychological Effects

In addition to the physical discomfort caused by bed bug bites, infestations can lead to significant emotional and psychological distress. Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate, and the thought of sharing your living space with these pests can cause anxiety, insomnia, and even post-traumatic stress in severe cases. Individuals who have experienced bed bug infestations often report feeling embarrassed or ashamed of their situation, which can have negative effects on their overall well-being.

For businesses, especially those in the hospitality industry, a bed bug infestation can lead to customer complaints, negative reviews, and a tarnished reputation. This can result in a loss of business, particularly in a competitive market like Sacramento, where travelers have plenty of choices for accommodations.

3. Financial Consequences

The financial costs associated with a bed bug infestation can quickly spiral out of control. In addition to the costs of treatment, which can vary depending on the severity of the infestation, there may be costs related to lost business, including temporarily shutting down a hotel or apartment complex to address the issue. Moreover, in the hospitality industry, bed bugs can lead to lawsuits, fines, and penalties from health regulators, further increasing the financial burden.

For homeowners, the cost of replacing furniture, bedding, and clothing that has been affected by bed bugs can add up quickly. In extreme cases, extensive damage to the structure of a home may require costly repairs.

Why DIY Treatments Often Fail

Many people attempt to handle bed bug infestations on their own with over-the-counter treatments or DIY methods. However, these approaches often fail for a variety of reasons. Some common pitfalls of DIY bed bug control include:

1. Limited Efficacy

Over-the-counter bed bug sprays and treatments may kill visible pests, but they are often ineffective at addressing the entire infestation. Bed bugs are excellent at hiding in cracks and crevices, and most DIY treatments are not designed to reach these hiding places. Additionally, bed bugs can develop resistance to certain chemicals over time, rendering DIY treatments even less effective.

2. Inadequate Coverage

DIY solutions typically do not offer the comprehensive coverage needed to eradicate an infestation. Bed bugs can be difficult to locate, and without professional tools and expertise, homeowners and business owners may miss critical areas where bed bugs are hiding. This can lead to recurring infestations as any surviving bed bugs multiply and spread.

3. Worsening the Problem

Some DIY methods, such as using excessive amounts of insecticides or attempting to treat bed bugs with heat or steam, can worsen the problem. Incorrect application of these treatments can drive bed bugs deeper into the structure, making them even harder to eliminate. Additionally, improperly applied chemicals may pose a risk to both people and pets.

The Benefits of Professional Heat and Chemical Treatments

Given the complexities involved in bed bug eradication, professional pest control services are essential for ensuring complete elimination. Sprague Pest Solutions, for example, offers a range of advanced treatments designed to address bed bug infestations at every stage of their life cycle.

1. Heat Treatments

One of the most effective methods for eradicating bed bugs is through professional heat treatments. Heat is lethal to bed bugs at all stages of development, from eggs to adults. By raising the temperature of a room or structure to levels that are lethal to bed bugs, professionals can eliminate the infestation in a single treatment.

Heat treatments are especially effective because they can penetrate deep into furniture, walls, and floors, reaching areas where bed bugs hide. This method is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, making it a safe choice for homes and businesses alike.

2. Chemical Treatments

In addition to heat treatments, professional pest control companies also use carefully selected, EPA-approved chemicals to treat bed bug infestations. These chemicals are designed to target bed bugs at various stages of development, from eggs to adults. Unlike DIY solutions, professional-grade chemicals are applied in a way that maximizes their effectiveness while minimizing the risk to people and pets.

Relevant Resource: Environmental Protection Agency’s “Bed Bug Information”

For more detailed information about bed bugs and pest control best practices, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a comprehensive "Bed Bug Information" page. This resource includes guidance on how to identify bed bugs, prevent infestations, and select appropriate treatments. It is an excellent reference for both homeowners and businesses looking to understand bed bug control better.

Conclusion: How Bed Bug Infestations Are Rising in Sacramento & What to Do About It

As bed bug infestations continue to rise in Sacramento, it is crucial for residents and business owners to take proactive measures to protect their properties from these pests. While DIY treatments often fail to provide lasting solutions, professional pest control services can offer effective, comprehensive treatments that ensure complete eradication. By working with experts like Sprague Pest Solutions, Sacramento homeowners and businesses can safeguard their properties from the health risks, emotional distress, and financial consequences associated with bed bug infestations.

If you suspect a bed bug problem in your home or business, don’t wait for the infestation to worsen. Contact a professional pest control company today to learn more about how they can help you address this growing issue and regain peace of mind.