Best pest control specialists near Hyde Park, VT

Heat is the most effective instant killer of bed bugs. Exposing them to temperatures above 131 degrees Fahrenheit for over an hour can eliminate them. Methods like steam cleaners and using a dryer on high heat are effective for this. Other options that can kill bed bugs on contact include EPA-approved pesticides, bleach, disinfectant sprays with alcohol, diatomaceous earth, and hydrogen peroxide. While freezing can work, it is not an instant solution, as it can take several days at 0 degrees Fahrenheit to be effective. Keep in mind that many DIY treatments won't reach bed bugs hidden in cracks or behind walls. For severe infestations or the most effective results, it is best to hire a professional exterminator for a professional heat or chemical treatment.

To find a quality professional and avoid pest control scams, it's important to do your homework before you hire. Start by reading customer reviews or getting a direct recommendation from a friend, neighbor, or family member. Once you have a shortlist of top-rated companies, verify that each pro is licensed and insured. It’s also a good idea to get multiple price quotes from vetted pros to find the best deal.

Several bugs can look like ticks but aren’t, including beetles, bed bugs, spider beetles, and weevils. Aside from different types of beetles, the most common confusion is between ticks versus bed bugs. In any case, since a tick is an eight-legged arachnid, you can quickly differentiate by the number of legs, as all insects have six legs.

Cold winter months won’t always kill off fleas completely. Your home is typically warm enough for fleas to survive or, at least, for the eggs to lay dormant, ready to hatch when warmer weather arrives. Plus, waiting for the winter isn’t a good idea. The infestation will continue to grow, and fleas carry pathogens that can harm humans and pets.