10 Bed Bug Myths (and the Truth You Really Need to Know)
Real facts to help you protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
Let’s face it—Googling bed bugs can quickly send you down a confusing rabbit hole filled with horror stories, half-truths, and way too many DIY suggestions. It’s enough to make anyone feel overwhelmed.
Here’s the truth:
Not everything you read online is accurate—especially when it comes to pests like bed bugs.
As professionals, we see the damage these myths can cause every day. Bed bugs are a serious public health issue, and dealing with them the wrong way can make the problem worse—and put your health at risk.
So, we’re here to clear things up. This guide was created with help from our Technical Director, Dr. Stan Cope — a Public Health and Infectious Disease expert who knows bed bugs inside and out. Whether you’re traveling more these days, managing a busy household, or simply want to stay informed, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s debunk the most common myths so you can feel confident and prepared.
Janelle Iaccino “The Bug Lady” – Marketing Director, and Stanton E. Cope – Technical Director, at our New Albany, Indiana location
1. Bed bugs only infest dirty homes.
Not true. You can keep your home sparkling clean and still get bed bugs. They’re not attracted to dirt—they’re attracted to body heat, carbon dioxide, and blood. Clutter does give them more places to hide, but hygiene isn’t what draws them in.
2. Expensive hotels are bed bug-free.
Unfortunately, no. Bed bugs don’t care how much your room cost or how nice the linens are. They hitch rides on luggage, clothing, and people—so they can show up in a five-star suite just as easily as in a budget motel.
3. You only get bed bugs from international travel.
Wrong again. You can pick up bed bugs right here at home—at movie theaters, on public transportation, even from an office chair. These pests are expert hitchhikers and can show up almost anywhere.
4. Bed bug bites make you sick.
Not in the way you might think. Bed bugs don’t spread disease, but some people can have allergic reactions to bites. More often, the impact is emotional—loss of sleep, stress, and anxiety. Scratching bites can also lead to skin irritation or secondary infections.
5. Pets don’t get bed bug bites.
They do. While bed bugs prefer human blood, they’ll bite pets too—especially if they sleep in the same area each night. Dogs, cats, birds, and even small rodents can be affected.
6. Bed bugs can fly or jump.
Good news—they can’t. Bed bugs don’t have wings, and they don’t jump. But they are quick crawlers and excellent hiders, which is why they’re so good at going unnoticed.
7. Bug bombs or foggers will solve the problem.
This is a big one. Over-the-counter foggers won’t kill bed bugs hiding in cracks or furniture. In fact, using the wrong products can make the problem worse—and even be hazardous to your health. Bed bugs are not a DIY pest. Professional help is essential.
8. Throwing out your bed will get rid of them.
Not necessarily. Bed bugs don’t just live in beds—they can hide in nightstands, curtains, outlets, and behind picture frames. Throwing out furniture without treatment can spread the problem. Always consult a professional before tossing anything.
9. Bed bugs are too small to see.
False. Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and visible to the naked eye. Younger ones (nymphs) are smaller but still visible—about the size of a sesame seed. If you know what to look for, you can spot them.
10. A pesticide spray is all you need.
Nope. Bed bug treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. Successful control requires a strategy called Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which combines professional inspection, targeted treatments, and sometimes heat or cryogenic methods. Spraying alone won’t cut it.
Bottom line?
If you suspect bed bugs, don’t panic—but don’t go it alone. Professional help ensures the problem is handled safely and completely. We’re here to help you protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind—so you can get back to sleeping soundly, bite-free.
