Bed bugs are a common household pest that can be difficult to detect and eliminate.
One effective method of catching bed bugs is a double-sided tape, which can trap them as they search for a host.
We will explore the benefits of using double-sided tape to catch bed bugs and provide a step-by-step guide on how to catch bed bugs with double-sided tape effectively.
Complete Guide On How To Catch Bed Bugs With Double-Sided Tape
- The first step in catching bed bugs [1] with double-sided tape is choosing the right one. Look for a tape that is wide enough to create a barrier that bed bugs cannot crawl over. It would help if you also chose a strong, durable tape with good adhesive properties.
- Prepare the Area. Before placing the double-sided tape, you should prepare the area by removing clutter and vacuuming the floor and furniture. This will help to eliminate hiding places for bed bugs and make it easier to spot any activity on the tape. You should also inspect the area thoroughly for signs of bed bugs, such as shed skins, fecal stains, and live bugs.
- Place the Tape. To catch bed bugs with double-sided tape, you should place the tape around the bed frame, headboard, and other areas where bed bugs are likely to hide. The tape should be placed strategically along the edges of the mattress, near the baseboards, and in the cracks and crevices where bed bugs might be hiding. Using enough tape to create a barrier that bed bugs cannot crawl over is essential.
- Check the Tape. To monitor bed bug activity, you should check the double-sided tape regularly, preferably every few days. On the tape, you should look for signs of bed bugs, such as live bugs, shed skins, and fecal stains [2]. If you find any bed bugs, you should take appropriate action, such as hiring a pest control professional to eliminate the infestation.
- Replace the Tape. Over time, the double-sided tape can lose its stickiness, making it less effective at catching bed bugs. It would help if you replaced the tape regularly, ideally every few weeks, to ensure it remains effective. You should also return the tape immediately if it becomes damaged or dirty.
How Often Should You Check The Double-Sided Tape?
To monitor bed bug activity, you should check the double-sided tape at least once a week, preferably every few days. On the tape, you should look for signs of bed bugs, such as live bugs, shed skins, and fecal stains.
If you find any bed bugs or signs, you should take appropriate action, such as hiring a pest control professional to eliminate the infestation.
“If we were to wipe out insects alone on this planet, the rest of life and humanity with it would mostly disappear from the land. Within a few months.”
– E. O. Wilson, American Biologist
It’s important to note that bed bugs can be difficult to spot, so you should use a flashlight to inspect the tape, especially in low-light conditions.
Additionally, if the tape has lost its stickiness or has become dirty, you should replace it immediately.
Tips & Tricks For Effective Bed Bug Monitoring
- Choose the right tape: Look for a tape that is wide enough to create a barrier that bed bugs cannot crawl over. It would help if you also chose a strong, durable tape with good adhesive properties.
- Place the tape strategically: Place the tape around the bed frame, headboard, and other areas where bed bugs are likely to hide. Make sure to use enough tape to create a barrier that bed bugs cannot crawl over.
- Inspect regularly: Check the double-sided tape regularly, preferably every few days. Look for signs of bed bugs, such as live bugs, shed skins, and fecal stains, on the tape.
- Use a flashlight: Bed bugs can be difficult to spot, especially in low-light conditions. Use a flashlight to inspect the tape, making it easier to spot any bed bug activity.
- Consider bed bug traps: Using bed bug traps in conjunction with double-sided tape can increase the effectiveness of bed bug monitoring.
- Replace the tape: Over time, the double-sided tape can lose its stickiness, making it less effective at catching bed bugs. Replace the tape regularly, ideally every few weeks, to ensure it remains effective. You should also replace the tape immediately if it becomes damaged or dirty.
FAQs
How do you force bed bugs out of hiding?
One method used by professionals to force bed bugs out of hiding is through heat treatment, where the infested area is heated to a temperature that is lethal to bed bugs.
Another method is using bed bug traps or lures to attract and capture them. However, trying to force bed bugs out of hiding on your own is generally not recommended.
Do bed bugs stick to carpet tape?
Bed bugs can stick to carpet tape, but it’s not the most effective way to trap them.
Double-sided tape designed explicitly for trapping bed bugs is generally more effective.
Carpet tape may also damage carpets or other surfaces if it needs to be removed carefully.
Final Thoughts
Double-sided tape is a simple and effective way to monitor bed bug activity and prevent infestations from spreading.
By placing the tape strategically, inspecting it regularly, and replacing it when necessary, you can catch bed bugs and their signs, such as fecal stains and shed skin. It’s essential to use suitable tape and be diligent in monitoring to ensure the method is effective.
However, it’s important to note that double-sided tape should be used as part of an overall bed bug management plan.
If you suspect an infestation, it’s best to seek the assistance of a pest control professional for proper identification and treatment.
References:
- https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/pests/bedbugs.htm
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/tips/a17267/stains-feces-may07/
Alene Schill is a property manager from Columbus, Ohio, who has dealt with numerous pest control agencies. She helps families find the perfect homes and knows very well that bed bugs are an ultimate deal-breaker. She enjoys cycling around Scioto Mile during her spare time.