How can I tell if I have bed bugs or fleas?

• <div><p>When you’re <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-kill-fleas-carpet.htm">checking for bed bugs in your home</a>, start by searching for the telltale signs rather than the insects themselves, as they tend to stay hidden during the day. Here are the key signs of a bed bug infestation:</p><ul><li><p>Rust-colored or reddish stains on mattresses and bed sheets</p></li><li><p>Dark spots on fabric</p></li><li><p>Shed skins</p></li><li><p>Fecal matter (looks like black spots)</p></li></ul><p>As for fleas, you can typically spot them on your pet. If you notice them scratching themselves excessively, look for bites and bugs on their skin and fur.</p></div>

Best pest control specialists near Altona, IL

Q: How can I tell if I have bed bugs or fleas?

• <div><p>When you&rsquo;re <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-kill-fleas-carpet.htm">checking for bed bugs in your home</a>, start by searching for the telltale signs rather than the insects themselves, as they tend to stay hidden during the day. Here are the key signs of a bed bug infestation:</p><ul><li><p>Rust-colored or reddish stains on mattresses and bed sheets</p></li><li><p>Dark spots on fabric</p></li><li><p>Shed skins</p></li><li><p>Fecal matter (looks like black spots)</p></li></ul><p>As for fleas, you can typically spot them on your pet. If you notice them scratching themselves excessively, look for bites and bugs on their skin and fur.</p></div>

Q: Is it illegal to kill honey bees?

• <div><p>In many places, killing bees or destroying a hive is discouraged or regulated due to their crucial role as pollinators. Specific laws vary by region, and certain bee species are protected due to declining populations. Some states require permits or restrict who can remove or exterminate bee colonies. Always check local laws before attempting to manage or remove a beehive.</p></div>

Q: How do you get rid of bed bugs in a mattress?

• <div><p>If you find bed bugs on your mattress, your first step is to put your sheets, pillowcases, pillows, and nearby linens into a trash bag and wash them in hot water. Then, vacuum your mattress and the rest of your bedroom, paying special attention to the mattress seams and crevices near your headboard. Next, use one (or more) of the solutions listed above to kill any live bugs, or call an exterminator for a professional treatment. </p></div>

Q: Can an exterminator get rid of wasps?

• <div><p>Yes, exterminators are a type of pest control professional that is qualified to remove wasps safely and effectively. Exterminators will inspect the wasp problem, administer professional-grade treatments, and apply preventative measures to avoid a future infestation. Consult a local exterminator about your wasp problem as soon as you identify it.</p><p> </p></div>

Q: How do you get rid of cockroaches without fumigating?

• <div><p>When looking for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-organic-roach-killer-options-are-available.htm">natural roach repellent</a> options, citrus, bay leaves, cucumber, garlic, and catnip may all help to keep cockroaches away. When an infestation requires a bigger intervention, boric acid, baking soda, diatomaceous earth (DE), and soap mixed with water are all considered natural and nontoxic roach treatments.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Pest Control pros in Altona, IL

*The Angi rating for Pest Control companies in Altona, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Pest Control needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Pest Control companies in Altona, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Pest Control needs.

Last update on November 06, 2025

Reviewed in November 2025
My pro, Bob, did an excellent job at installing my over the range microwave. He also removed and hauled away my old one. Bob was punctual, efficient, and talked me through the process of the exact work he would be performing. He was friendly and also cleaned up nicely when the job was complete....
Redemption Home Improvement LLC
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Reviewed in July 2024
The project went very well. The finished porch is perfect for what I needed. I have a few more projects in mind that Williams will be my first call..he did great work and very courteous. Over all I am extremely happy.
Williams Construction
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Reviewed in June 2024
She did a great job getting into the small cracks. My apartment was dust free after she left and she even made my bed. She cleaned the toilet and shower also got the soap residue off my glass shower doors. I would 100% recommend her to clean for you and I will definitely be using her services...
A&B Cleaning
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Reviewed in March 2024
If you are considering epoxy for your floors anywhere in your home, contact Central Illinois Epoxy! Their choices of color and texture are quite different and more than standard fleck Iâ ve been offered elsewhere. I chose deep, tonal colors for interior floors of a breezeway and garage...
Central Illinois Epoxy, LLC
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Reviewed in June 2023
This group did amazing work in a very efficient and timely manner. Cleaned up after themselves as they went along. Very easy to work with.
AJ Concrete
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Reviewed in March 2023
Sam did great removing my huge tree that was right next to my neighbors brand new fence. I saw my neighbor watching a few times, I could tell he was nervous, but was very happy at the end as his fence was not harmed at all.
Family Branch Tree Service LLC
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Reviewed in February 2022
My husband and I hired Alley initially to clean our 4K sqft residence. She does such a fantastic job monthly for us we have also hired her to clean out our rental properties to get ready for new tenants. Iâ d wouldnâ t look any further if youâ re looking for an experienced and reliable...
Stone Cleaning
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Reviewed in January 2022
They clean up themselves They did the job beyond expected as if theres no tree there before
Empire Yard Maintenance
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Reviewed in March 2019
Have seen no pests since we started the service. Pretty amazing for South Florida!
Hometown Pest Control Inc
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Reviewed in May 2017
Dave was very friendly and professional. He did a great job. Even though he came 4 hours later than scheduled I cant complain about the great job he did. I would definitely recommend them for your pest control services.
EcoFloridian Lawn & Pest Control
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Top-Rated Pest control specialists in Altona - Updated Nov 2026

Terminix® Pest Control

3.9(

1,074

)

Pest Control - Bugs and InsectsPest Control - RodentsPest Control - Termite+6 more

Serving Altona, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Warranties offered

When pests show up, so do we.\n\nFor nearly a century, Terminix® has been one of America's most trusted names in pest control. Every day, our exterminators serve thousands of homes and businesses nationwide, combining national service with local knowledge to provide best-in-class, proactive pest management solutions. We stop problems before they start and respond quickly if issues arise, keeping your property protected.\n\nAnd for extra peace of mind, if pests come back, so do we — guaranteed.\n\nThe Terminix It Guarantee means that if pests come back, so do we, to re-treat at no additional cost. No excuses, just a commitment to care for your home like it's our own with protection you can trust.

58 neighbors recently requested a quote

Recommended by81%of homeowners

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Presto-X (St. Louis)

New to Angi

Mosquito ControlPest Control - Bed BugsPest Control - Birds and Bats+4 more

Serving Altona, IL and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 1932

Free estimates

Warranties offered

Since 1932, Presto-X has been providing expert pest control services guided by the enduring principles of providing world class service to our customers and taking care of our colleagues. Presto-X covers your home or business with expert knowledge, professionally licensed and trained technicians, and exemplary service designed specifically for you.

Pest Control - Bed BugsPest Control - Bugs and InsectsPest Control - Rodents+1 more

Serving Altona, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"From sales, termite application, and pest control Price Termite & Pest Control where professional and friendly. I was able to watch the treatments and they were exactly what was explained to me in my first meeting - no deviation or shortcuts. I highly recommend this company"

Recommended by85%of homeowners

Pest Control - Bed BugsPest Control - Bugs and InsectsPest Control - Termite

Serving Altona, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1927

When it comes to protecting homes, Terminix has satisfied more customers than any other insect and pest control company in the industry, with more than 15 million service visits annually.

Recommended by33%of homeowners

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American Home Shield – Home Warranty

3.5(

5,689

)

Mosquito ControlPest Control - Bed BugsPest Control - Bugs and Insects+3 more

Serving Altona, IL and surrounding areas

In business since 1971

Credit card accepted

"I have a contract with them so I have to use them again. It pays for itself eventually if you get good repair people. You don't control who they send."

Recommended by65%of homeowners

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Pest Control FAQs, answered by experts

When you’re checking for bed bugs in your home, start by searching for the telltale signs rather than the insects themselves, as they tend to stay hidden during the day. Here are the key signs of a bed bug infestation:

Rust-colored or reddish stains on mattresses and bed sheets
Dark spots on fabric
Shed skins
Fecal matter (looks like black spots)

As for fleas, you can typically spot them on your pet. If you notice them scratching themselves excessively, look for bites and bugs on their skin and fur.

In many places, killing bees or destroying a hive is discouraged or regulated due to their crucial role as pollinators. Specific laws vary by region, and certain bee species are protected due to declining populations. Some states require permits or restrict who can remove or exterminate bee colonies. Always check local laws before attempting to manage or remove a beehive.

If you find bed bugs on your mattress, your first step is to put your sheets, pillowcases, pillows, and nearby linens into a trash bag and wash them in hot water. Then, vacuum your mattress and the rest of your bedroom, paying special attention to the mattress seams and crevices near your headboard. Next, use one (or more) of the solutions listed above to kill any live bugs, or call an exterminator for a professional treatment.

Yes, exterminators are a type of pest control professional that is qualified to remove wasps safely and effectively. Exterminators will inspect the wasp problem, administer professional-grade treatments, and apply preventative measures to avoid a future infestation. Consult a local exterminator about your wasp problem as soon as you identify it.

When looking for natural roach repellent options, citrus, bay leaves, cucumber, garlic, and catnip may all help to keep cockroaches away. When an infestation requires a bigger intervention, boric acid, baking soda, diatomaceous earth (DE), and soap mixed with water are all considered natural and nontoxic roach treatments.

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