When most people think about bed bugs, their first instinct is to check the mattress—and for good reason. Bed bugs often make their way into your home by hitching a ride on luggage, clothing, or used furniture, and your bed is their favorite place to settle. But if you're only treating the mattress, you're missing the bigger picture. Bed bugs are sneaky, persistent, and love to hide in more places than you might expect.
At Southwest Exterminating, we’ve helped Houston-area homeowners reclaim their spaces from bed bugs since 1969. Over the years, we've learned that successful bed bug control requires a whole-home approach. Here are some often-overlooked areas you should inspect and treat to keep your home bed bug-free.
1. Baseboards and Carpet Edges
Bed bugs don’t need much space to hide. The cracks between baseboards and floors offer the perfect hiding spot. Vacuum these areas thoroughly and consider using a crevice tool to get into tight spaces. Steam treatments and residual insecticides may also help eliminate lingering pests.
2. Behind Wall Hangings and Electrical Outlets
It may seem unlikely, but bed bugs can tuck themselves behind picture frames, mirrors, and even light switch plates. Take down any wall décor and check for small black dots (fecal matter), molted skins, or live bugs. Remove outlet covers carefully and inspect inside with a flashlight.
3. Furniture and Upholstery
Bed bugs aren’t just drawn to beds—they love sofas, recliners, and any padded furniture. Check seams, zippers, and folds in fabric. If you’ve had overnight guests or naps on the couch, treat it with the same care as your mattress. Encasements for furniture, similar to mattress covers, can also be helpful.
4. Curtains and Drapes
Soft fabrics attract bed bugs, especially if they hang near sleeping areas or furniture. Remove and wash curtains in hot water, then dry on high heat. Be sure to inspect the curtain rod and nearby wall for any signs of activity.
5. Closets and Clothing
If you suspect bed bugs, it's not just your bedding that’s at risk. Clothes stored on the floor or in drawers can become infested. Wash all clothing in hot water and dry thoroughly. Avoid overcrowding closets and store clothing in sealed containers during treatment.
6. Luggage and Travel Bags
Brought home bed bugs after a trip? Your suitcase may still be harboring them. Vacuum the interior and exterior of your bags, and treat them with steam if possible. Store travel gear in airtight plastic bins when not in use.
Call the Experts for Complete Peace of Mind
DIY efforts can help, but bed bugs are notoriously resilient. If you want lasting relief, trust the experienced team at Southwest Exterminating. We offer safe, effective, and family-friendly bed bug treatments that go beyond the surface. Whether you're seeing signs of an infestation or just want to be proactive, we're here to help.
Ready to take your home back from bed bugs? Call (281) 305-0637 today for a free estimate and fast, reliable service.