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These are the signs of bed bugs to look out for:

• Blood or rust-colored stains on mattresses, fabrics, or upholstery

• Dark spots of excrement that look like dots from a fine-tipped permanent marker

• Tiny eggshells and yellowish shed skins

Some plants that are toxic to animals or insects are also toxic to people. Daffodils, for example, are considered poisonous to humans (although they are rarely fatal). Most of the other plants listed above, however, are safe (and delicious!) for humans to eat, including basil, rosemary, and lemongrass.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, pyrethrins and pyrethroids are the most common chemical compounds used to get rid of bed bugs. These chemicals force bed bugs out of their hiding spots and kill them on the spot so they are eliminated for good. Only professional exterminators can apply these treatments, and they are reserved for severe infestations.

While foxes may find them unpleasant, mothballs are not an effective deterrent. Additionally, mothballs are toxic for humans and animals and should never be used outside. They contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which are very harmful to the environment. Use safer, more reliable deterrents, or hire a professional wildlife control expert.