As winter’s chill lingers in Colorado, homeowners often breathe a sigh of relief, assuming pests like bed bugs retreat during colder months. But here’s the unsettling truth: bed bugs don’t adhere to seasonal calendars. These resilient pests thrive year-round, exploiting indoor warmth and human activity to sustain their infestations.
Bed bug infestations not happening during the winter is just one of the many countless myths about bed bug behavior—misconceptions that often lead to delayed action and escalating problems.
Let’s dismantle these myths, uncover the realities of bed bug activity, and explore how proactive strategies can safeguard your Denver-area home, no matter the month.
Myth #1 – Bed Bugs Hibernate in Winter
Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs don’t hibernate or vanish when temperatures drop. Indoors, they enjoy stable climates year-round, hiding in mattresses, furniture, and electrical outlets. In fact, winter travel and holiday gatherings often increase infestation risks, as bed bugs hitchhike on luggage or clothing into homes.
Myth #2 – Only “Dirty” Homes Attract Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are equal-opportunity invaders. They care little about cleanliness, gravitating instead to carbon dioxide emissions and body heat. A spotless apartment in Louisville or a meticulously cleaned Thornton home can still fall victim to an infestation introduced via secondhand furniture or a visitor’s bag.
The only way to make properties feel less attractive to bed bugs is by sealing cracks, applying low-toxicity residual sprays, and educating clients on risk factors like travel habits.
Myth #3 – Bed Bugs Are Immediately Noticeable
Bed bugs excel at secrecy. Early infestations often go undetected until populations explode. Subtle signs, like tiny blood spots on sheets or musty odors, are easily overlooked. It isn’t unusual for pest experts to encounter cases where residents mistook bed bug bites for mosquito or allergy reactions for months.
Myth #4 – Once Treated, Bed Bugs Won’t Return
Eradicating bed bugs requires more than a one-time spray. Eggs hatch weeks after initial treatments, and missed hiding spots can reignite infestations. This is why most pest control companies who offer bed bug control services back their treatments with a warranty: if pests persist, they’ll provide follow-up services at no extra charge.
How to Protect Your Home from Bed Bug Infestations
They say it takes two to tango, and when it comes to bed bug control, you can’t just rely on expert help.
As a homeowner, you can take measures that discourage bed bug infestations, including:
- Travel Smart: Inspect hotel rooms and luggage. Wash travel clothing in hot water immediately upon returning.
- Secondhand Caution: Freeze or heat treat used furniture before bringing it indoors.
- Routine Inspections: Schedule biannual checks with Bee Smart, especially if you share walls in condos or townhomes.
- Declutter: Reduce hiding spots by minimizing clutter under beds and in closets.
Bed bugs don’t check the calendar—and neither should your vigilance.
Stop letting myths compromise your comfort. Schedule a free bed bug inspection today by calling (720) 937-0527 and reclaim your home’s comfort with help from Bee Smart Pest Control.