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How to stop possums entering your roof space

How to stop possums entering your roof space

by | Mar 21, 2025 | Blog, Possum

They’re messy, destructive and cause a racket in your roof at night! In this Hivemind blog, we’re sharing 4 ways that you can prevent pesky possums from nesting in your roof so you can reclaim your beauty sleep once and for all.

What questions will this article answer?

Why are possums attracted to my roof space?

Developed urban areas have less available tree hollows for possums to seek shelter.
This creates more competition for suitable nesting sites, which forces possums to find alternative accommodation in your roof!

While peak breeding season normally happens in spring, different species can mate in any season. Many will also actively seek warmth and shelter in the winter months, so the risk of finding possums in and on your roof remains all year long, unless you actively take steps to stop them.

Reasons to avoid a possum outbreak

While many homes in Adelaide have possum visitors every now and then, they don’t make the most ideal houseguests. Here’s why:

Aggressive behaviour

While they generally prefer to avoid confrontation, possums will certainly display defensive behaviour if they feel threatened. You’ll see them bare their teeth, hiss or screech at you during unexpected encounters, and they may even bite or swipe if you get too close!

They’re messy

Lacking in table manners, possums will leave behind food scraps and droppings at feeding sites, and help themselves to flowers, fruit and vegetables from your garden.

Nocturnal disturbance

Because they are usually active at night, you’ll tend to hear them running on your roof and making unusual noises just as you’re winding down to sleep.

Property damage

With razor sharp teeth and claws, hungry possums are capable of gnawing on electrical cables, chewing on insulation and scratching ducts. This can increase the risk of electrical disruptions and fires occurring in your home.

Spreading diseases

Possums can carry a range of nasty germs and parasites which can be spread through human contact. This can lead to diseases such as Buruli Ulcer, leptospirosis, wobbly possum disease, tularaemia and bovine tuberculosis.

Are possums keeping you up at night? Speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

How to tell if you have a possum infestation

Although possums look cute and cuddly, having an outbreak in your roof is anything but pleasant! Here are some reasons why:

Nighttime movement

As nocturnal creatures, possums will be most active at night, so pay attention to thumping sounds as they scurry along your roof and ceiling around your bedtime, distracting you from rest!

Sounds coming from your roof

Possums are well known for making hissing, coughing, snarling, growling and even screeching noises [insert link: https://allstatepest.com.au/pests/are-the-noises-in-your-roof-possums-or-rodents/]. Sometimes, you may even hear them communicate with each other through chattering and clicking.

Droppings

Found in small piles in feeding areas, possum droppings appear dark brown to black in colour, are cylindrical shaped and around 15mm long.

Nests

Depending on the species, possum nests can look different. Brushtail possums prefer nesting in leaf-lined tree hollows. Ringtail possums construct unique “drey” nests out of twigs and leaves nestled high up in tree canopies.

Unpleasant odours wafting around your home

Possum urine smells strongly of ammonia.

4 ways to stop possums from entering your roof space

Keeping your roof space clean and possum-free isn’t difficult if you’re proactive in taking the following steps:

Proof entry points

Maintaining the integrity of your rooftop is a key factor in preventing possums from coming inside. Regularly inspect your roof for any potential sites of entry and cover or seal them. You can install mesh screens over vent and water tank openings, and grates over chimneys. Repair and replace dislodged roof tiles.

Yard maintenance

Remove easy access to your roof by trimming back trees, foliage, shrubs and bushes away from your home. Having fewer large trees in your yard will also provide less opportunities for possums to nest in your backyard. Dispose of all fallen and rotten fruit and vegetables, and sweep up piles of leaf litter. Secure rubbish bins, and keep outdoor dining areas clean.

Remove food sources

With an appetite for plant-based food, possums prefer feasting on fruit, vegetables, flowers and leaves. You can lower your chances of attracting possums if you reduce the number of plants in your yard. Do not leave pet food bowls out.

Natural repellents

Strong-smelling household items can be effective in keeping pesky possums away from your yard. You can make sprays by mixing water with garlic, camphor, quassia chips, fish sauce or even bleach and apply them around your yard. These will need to be reapplied regularly.

Safeguard your home from possums, get expert advice today

or

8371 1277

Professional possum management

Dealing with possums in your roof is best left to the professionals. Not only do they become aggressive when they feel threatened, but possums are regarded as protected wildlife in South Australia. This means that you’ll need a Trap and Release permit to relocate possums within a 50m radius of your home.

At Allstate, our professional possum control service is carried out safely and humanely by our fully licensed technicians. This involves installing a one-way door at the possum entry point and leaving a cage trap to capture the possum, before releasing it to a new nesting box on a tree that is within 50m away.

We’ll also take steps to reduce the chances of possums returning to your roof by identifying and proofing all other potential entry points, and cleaning up the mess they’ve left behind.

Choose Allstate for safe and humane possum control

If the constant distraction of possums lurking around your roof and backyard is keeping you up at night, Allstate is here to help.

Since 1986, Allstate has offered high quality pest control services to homes and businesses in all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7 for urgent enquiries, our licensed and highly trained technicians are fully equipped to tackle possum outbreaks in a safe and humane manner, whether you’re in a residential, commercial or industrial setting.

All our pest control treatments come with competitive warranties and access to payment plans, so you can reclaim your sleep (and sanity!) from pesky possum guests running rampant in your roof – sooner rather than later.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277

Commercial property pest prevention checklist

Commercial property pest prevention checklist

by | Mar 21, 2025 | Blog, Pests

If pests weren’t enough of a nuisance in homes, their presence in commercial properties can have devastating consequences. Avoid disruptions to your day-to-day operations and risking the health and safety of customers and employees with our 7-point pest prevention checklist in today’s Hivemind blog.

What questions will this article answer?

Why your commercial property needs a pest prevention plan

With an abundance of shelter, food and water, commercial properties provide optimum conditions for the survival of many common pests, including rodents, cockroaches and ants.

Unfortunately, once these uninvited pests gain access inside your building, they can put staff and customers at risk by causing a range of problems. These include spreading disease, contamination, structural damage and creating a mess.

This can have a negative impact on not only your daily business operations but can also harm your reputation, and breaches to health and safety regulations can result in hefty penalties.

That’s why at Allstate, we believe that proactive pest prevention planning is the best way to protect your commercial property.

Point 1: Regular pest inspections

As you’ll no doubt be aware, early detection is the best way to prevent a pest infestation. Some common signs of pests include droppings, unusual noises and seeing them scurrying around at night.

However, some pest outbreaks are easier to spot than others, which require special knowledge and equipment to identify. So, it’s best to bring in the experts.

At Allstate, our highly trained technicians will perform a comprehensive pest assessment of your property and note down all potential risk factors.

We understand the significant threat that pest activity can pose to your business, so we’ll recommend regular inspections, and initiate treatment if needed, to safeguard your property from potentially ongoing pest attacks.

Point 2: Property maintenance

With the ability to squeeze through tiny openings, pests won’t hesitate to seek food, water and shelter at your commercial property [insert link: https://allstatepest.com.au/pest-control-for-commercial-buildings/]. Once inside, they will easily find discreet nesting areas and it won’t take long for you to have a full-blown outbreak on your hands. Here are some ways to fortify your building from messy pests:

 

Remove access points

We recommend regularly inspecting your building, from the foundations to the roof, for holes, cracks, gaps or openings and fill them with sealant, caulk, silicone or foam.
Don’t forget to check window seals, door frames and install door sweeps and weather stripping where possible.

Ensure that vents and drains are covered with a fine mesh and chimneys are fitted with grates. Fix loose and dislodged roof tiles.

 

Yard maintenance

If you have an outdoor area with vegetation, keeping it tidy is key to reduce potential hiding spots for pests. Trim back trees and vegetation, remove piles of leaves, keep lawns mowed and dispose of fallen fruit.

 

Remove excess moisture

Like humans, pests need water to survive, and many thrive in humid environments. This means that you need to make sure that there are no leaks in your plumbing system, and that there is adequate drainage at your site. For areas that are prone to dampness, consider installing a dehumidifier.

Keep your property health and safety compliant. Speak to a pest expert today.

or

8371 1277

Point 3: Practicing good hygiene

Staying compliant with Food Safety Standard HACCP and Quality Standard ISO 9001
is an integral part of the day-to-day operations for many commercial properties such as restaurants and warehouses . Consider taking the following steps to keep your venue pest-free:

  • Keep workspaces sanitised and regularly deep clean, remembering to check hard to reach areas
  • Clean food preparation and dining areas often, wiping up spills and crumbs as soon as possible
  • Hand wash regularly before handling food and if you suspect there is a risk of contamination
  • Avoid leaving cooked food out to cool for more than an hour
  • Use disposable gloves where possible and change them regularly
  • Avoid cross-contamination of raw and cooked food
  • Handle food with utensils that are sterilised
  • Ensure that staff are trained in safe food handling and preparations

Point 4: Practicing proper food storage

With the ability to sniff out food from long distances, pests will infiltrate your supplies and cause an outbreak faster than you can imagine! Here are some tips for safe food storage and display:

  • Keep all food covered and stored in airtight food-grade containers with tight fitting lids, plastic film or foil. Avoid using containers that are in poor condition, or opened cans
  • Keep all food and supplies in designated food storage areas, such as pantries, refrigerators and cool rooms
  • Ensure that food storage areas are kept well-organised, clean and dry
  • Avoid keeping stock on the floor to limit access to pests
  • Regularly audit your supplies and stock and remove spoiled or rotten foods that have passed their expiry dates, and use older items first
  • Inspect supply deliveries for signs of potential pest contamination outside your venue
  • Educate employees about cold and hot food storage temperatures

Point 5: Waste management

As expert scavengers, hungry pests are not shy about foraging through rubbish for food. Unfortunately, the large amounts of waste generated at most busy commercial properties can attract pests from far and wide unless it is properly managed.

Avoid unwanted pest outbreaks by establishing the following waste management guidelines for your facility:

  • Keep all waste covered and tightly sealed
  • Use sealed bins throughout venue, in all indoor and outdoor areas
  • Regularly empty bins and keep them clean to reduce the buildup of rotten food and odours
  • Consider implementing a recycling program
  • Keep staff, employees and contractors up to date with waste management knowledge

Keep reputation-wrecking pests away from your business. Speak to an expert today.

or

8371 1277

Point 6: Educating your staff

While bringing in an expert to install pest control barriers and recommendations is a key part to keeping your facility pest-free, your employees also play an important role in implementing pest prevention-friendly practices in the workplace.

At Allstate, we believe that ongoing education and training for your staff, employees and contractors can encourage and foster a culture of proactive, safe pest prevention practices at work.

Training programs for staff should provide information about how to report any suspected pest sightings immediately and identify early signs of pest problems, proper food and waste handling and hygiene practices, as well as relevant food and workplace safety standards.

Point 7: Integrated pest management for commercial properties

At Allstate, we understand that there are many aspects of smoothly running a busy commercial property that take up your time and energy. That’s why we’ve made commercial pest control hassle-free yet highly effective and reliable with our completely customised, safety compliant integrated pest management program.

Stored and easily retrieved through a 24/7 live online portal, your pest management plan will be created and overseen by a dedicated pest technician who will conduct an initial onsite inspection to identify all possible risks.

Besides its convenience, you’ll have many other benefits to using our innovative web-based commercial pest control platform, including instant global access to:

  • Safety data sheets relating to all our services and treatments used on your site
  • All inspection reports and findings
  • Historical data on each area of your facility and pest types
  • Accurate reporting logs
  • Tracked records of all past and present pest concerns, recommendations, monitoring and applied treatments
  • Your dedicated pest technician to raise any queries and provide feedback

Choose Allstate for targeted and effective commercial pest management

If you’re looking for a simplified, streamlined approach to keeping pests away from your commercial property, Allstate has the solution for you.

Since 1986, we’ve successfully managed pest outbreaks in homes and businesses in every suburb of Adelaide. No matter if you’re in a commercial, residential or industrial setting, our experienced team is available 24/7 for urgent advice and innovative, tailored treatments to all types of pest concerns.

Fully licensed, compliant and covered by competitive warranties, our premium commercial pest control services will ensure that your business can stay pest-free and operate safely for many years to come.

Our expert team is ready to help you now.

or

8371 1277

How Termites Adapt To Changing Seasons

How Termites Adapt To Changing Seasons

by | Mar 11, 2025 | Blog, Termites

They’re small, move discreetly and cause silent damage in homes and businesses across Adelaide. Learn more about what makes termites the ultimate perennial pests and how you can avoid termite attacks no matter the season in this Hivemind blog.

What questions will this article answer?

Spring: peak swarming season

To improve the survival of their species, termites swarm to reproduce and expand their geographical reach. This is a key sign that you probably have a mature termite colony nearby.

For most termites, this normally happens in warm and humid weather, in late spring to early summer, after rainfall. You might see up to 50,000 male and female termites pair off to mate and establish a new nesting site. Swarming during the daytime is most common, though some species prefer the evenings. If you have lots of trees, woodpiles or ponds on your property, this could be very appealing for swarmers, so it’s best to stay alert.

Once swarmers have completed the fertilisation process, they will lose their wings and become the new primary King and Queen for the new colony. Pay attention to flying termites and discarded wings around your home in spring.

    Summer: the peak season

    For most subterranean termites, summer is a hive of activity! With swarming still occurring in early summer and Queens laying up to 30,000 eggs in a single day, it won’t take long to grow a formidable termite colony right at your doorstep.

    Most termites will spend summer foraging for food and eating, so be aware of changes to dead tree stumps, wooden sleepers, fencing, timber structures and furniture around your home.

    Though termite workers do not survive through summer, secondary Queen termites step up with their egg laying to well and truly compensate for the loss.

    Dampwood termites predominantly swarm during the summer season, and their soldiers are known to grow up to 15mm long.

    Autumn: cold weather preparations

    As the mercury drops, termites start making preparations to keep the colony warm and toasty for the upcoming winter. Towards the end of autumn, when the temperature falls under their preferred 23 degrees, you’ll find them looking for cosy places to nest, which can include inside your home.

    Unlike most species of termites, drywood termites swarm in late summer and early autumn. We recommend staying vigilant for these winged termites searching for nesting sites in timber structures around your property as the weather cools down.

    Winter: keeping warm

    While termites are active all year round, especially if they are tunnelling through wooden structures inside your home protected from the cold. Though warm weather provides optimal survival conditions, termites will adjust their behaviour in the following ways to endure the harsh winter climate:

    • Subterranean termites are generally less active
    • They will tunnel deeper underground to seek warmth, and seal off tunnels to limit draughts of cold air
    • They’ll forage for food closer to their nest, ignoring the food that has been exposed to the cold
    • Queens often halt laying eggs when it gets cold enough
    • They will huddle closely to conserve heat

    Avoid skipping a termite inspection. Book with Allstate today.

    or

    8371 1277

    How to spot a termite infestation

    Termites are notorious for quietly causing significant destruction to your home, and it is usually not noticeable until the damage is severe. Stay aware of a termite attacks all year round by looking out for the following signs:

    • Mud tubes along walls, beams and foundations
    • Piles of discarded wings from termite swarmers near doors and windows
    • Unexplained cracks and peeling in plasterboards and paint
    • Creaking, blistering, warping and buckling doorframes and floorboards
    • Hollow sounds from wood and timber structures when tapped

    Worried about signs of termites? Speak to an expert today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Preventing a termite outbreak

    While termite damage is expensive to fix, it’s considered to be highly preventable with assistance from the right professional expertise. Here’s our suggestions for staying termite-free at your home or business:

    Yearly inspections
    At Allstate, we follow government guidelines which recommend yearly termite inspections, conducted by licensed termite inspectors adhering to strict quality standards, for all homes and businesses in Adelaide. However, if you are in a high-risk area, more frequent termite inspections may be even more effective.

    Reduce levels of moisture
    Termites thrive in warm, humid environments, so we recommend making sure that your home drainage system is in good working order. Inspect your plumbing for leaks in pipes, taps and drains, and check that your gutters aren’t clogged and holding water. Fix these issues as soon as they arise so that they don’t attract termites, as well as other pests.

    Regular yard maintenance
    Avoid storing wood piles and sleepers near your home where possible and remove dead tree stumps. Keep tree branches, shrubs and bushes well-trimmed away from the sides of your house.

    For fast and reliable termite protection all year, choose Allstate

    Active throughout all seasons, termite attacks are no small matter. It’s thought that 1 in 5 Adelaide homes are affected by termite damage, but you can avoid becoming part of this statistic by arranging a free termite assessment with a licensed termite inspector from Allstate.

    Locally operated since 1986, Allstate has provided premium pest control services to clients across all suburbs of Adelaide. Available for urgent advice 24/7, our highly trained pest technicians offer innovative, tailored treatments and solutions for pest outbreaks of all sizes in residential, commercial and industrial settings, as well as protection for new builds.

    With a range of long- and short-term termite control measures on offer, covered by competitive warranties and accessible with payment plans, you can safeguard your family from termites sooner rather than later.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now

    or

    8371 1277

    Autumn Pest Prevention for Hospitality Venues

    Autumn Pest Prevention for Hospitality Venues

    by | Mar 10, 2025 | Blog, Pests

    As the weather cools down, hungry and cold pests are looking for food, warmth and shelter, and your hospitality venue ticks all the boxes! Learn more about how to keep your business compliant and safe from uninvited pests this autumn in today’s Hivemind blog.

    What questions will this article answer?

    Why do hospitality venues attract pests in autumn?

    Though most pests usually have peak active seasons, hospitality venues unfortunately don’t get a break from the ongoing threat of a pest outbreak.

    As the weather cools down in autumn, pests seek out warmth and shelter to survive the harsh winter conditions.

    With hospitality venues having an abundance of food resources, water and shelter, it’s no wonder that they’ll be an ideal target for hungry, cold pests such as rodents, cockroaches and ants.

    Unfortunately, this means your venue could be at risk of breaching government health and safety standards and turn away guests, patrons and employees alike, unless you take the necessary steps to keep the pests away.

      Rodents

      They’re noisy, hungry and unhygienic, and leave a huge mess behind.

      Rats and mice are a feared pest in homes and hospitality venues alike. With their ever-growing teeth, they’ll constantly gnaw at not only food supplies, but also walls, electrical wiring and timber furniture, resulting in costly damage.

      In addition to this, their fur, saliva and droppings contain a range of nasty germs and diseases – not the items that you’d want on your menu!

      Signs of a rodent infestation

      • As nocturnal pests, you’ll be more likely to see rodents in the evenings, when hosting your evening and nighttime guests
      • Rodent droppings look like black rice grains, ranging from 3-18mm long
      • Look for food scraps and crumbs lying scattered around, and spilled food from ripped packaging
      • Listen out for squeaking, thumping, scratching and gnawing sounds coming from your roof and walls

      Stop a rodent rampage at your venue

      • Maintain excellent hygiene standards, including frequent handwashing and thoroughly cleaning your venue, including surfaces, dining and preparation areas
      • Regularly inspect and cover all access points on your roof. Check vents and chimneys, and underneath doors as well
      • Ensure that waste is properly stored and covered
      • Regular yard maintenance removes hiding spots for rodents, so if you have plants, trees and shrubs, keep them well trimmed. Keep lawns mowed and tidy and remove piles of vegetation

      Professional rodent management

      Allstate uses targeted rodent baits and physical traps to control rowdy rodents at your venue.

       

       

      Worried about rats in your kitchen? Speak to an expert today.

      or

      8371 1277

      Cockroaches

      Known for spreading diseases, the sight of cockroaches is a worrying sign for hospitality venues. With their strong jaws and sharp teeth, cockroaches also cause damage by chewing through food packaging and even dining furniture. By contaminating clean surfaces, your patrons and employees could face health risks such as diarrhoea and gastroenteritis from being at your venue.

      How to spot a cockroach outbreak

      • You notice cockroaches scurrying around, especially in the evenings, as they are nocturnal
      • Cockroach droppings resemble black coffee grounds
      • You see moulted outer skins scattered around the floor
      • Eggs are normally well hidden, but are dark brown coloured and up to 11mm long

      Avoiding a cockroach contamination

      • Practice proper food preparation, handling and storage
      • Keep all surfaces and floors clean and disinfect regularly, including kitchen stovetops, ovens, microwaves,
      • refrigerators, freezers, cupboards, pantries, preparation benches, sinks, dining tables and chairs, floors and toilets
      • Practice proper waste management, ensuring that rubbish is stored in tightly sealed bags and bins
      • Keep equipment and containers off the floor
      • Inspect the building regularly for leaks in plumbing and fix them quickly
      • Seal off all potential entry points

      Professional cockroach management

      Our highly trained Allstate pest control technicians use a combination of cockroach insecticide sprays, control dust and gel baits to deter creepy cockroaches from your venue.

      Ants

      From stovetops to toilet seats, ants march far and wide to forage for food. They encounter many different types of bacteria, viruses and bugs on their adventures and spread them all over your venue if left unchecked. What’s more, their bites can sting and trigger allergies.

      Identifying an ant outbreak

      • You notice ants marching along well-defined trails
      • Carpenter ants nest in timber structures and will leave behind piles of wood shavings on the floor, also known as frass

      Tips to keep ants away from your venue

      • Practice proper food storage, keep supplies tightly sealed inside cupboards and pantries
      • Clear away food spills and crumbs from floors and surfaces immediately
      • Regularly disinfect food preparation and dining areas
      • Avoid leaving dirty utensils, dishes and cutlery unwashed in the sink
      • Look for potential entry points and seal them
      • Mow any outdoor areas regularly and remove fallen or rotten fruit, as well as piles of vegetation
      • Check that rubbish bins and skips have properly fitted lids and keep waste sealed in sturdy bags

      Professional ant control

      At Allstate, our technicians use a combination of chemical baits, targeted insecticide and ant control dust treatments to combat annoying ant outbreaks.

      Don’t let an army of ants disturb your guests. Speak to an expert today.

      or

      8371 1277

      Integrated pest management for hospitality venues

      Managing pests at a busy and often large hospitality venue can seem complex and overwhelming, but it forms a critical part of your ongoing business operations.

      With an understanding that every venue is unique in its location, needs and risks, Allstate offers a tailored yet approach to pest management that is ideal for busy hospitality managers and owners.

      Our Integrated Pest Management program is designed to keep your venue pest-free and running smoothly for the safety and comfort of guests, patrons and employees alike.

      You’ll have a dedicated pest technician who will oversee your venue. Your technician is responsible for assessing your venue for potential risks of pest outbreaks, as well as the integrity of any existing pest control systems.

      With this information, they’ll propose a pest management plan and schedule regular inspections to ensure that you remain compliant with Food Safety Standard HACCP and Quality Standard ISO 9001.

      All up-to-date recommendations, inspection reports and compliance documentation can be accessed easily at your convenience by logging into our 24/7 online portal. You can also use the portal for fast communication with your pest technician to report new issues.

      Don’t hesitate to reach out to Allstate for a comprehensive pest assessment at your venue and avoid getting caught out with a costly infestation.

       

      Choose Allstate for tailored and effective hospitality pest management

      With the constant threat of pest outbreaks at hospitality venues, it’s essential to be covered by the most reliable pest management solutions to keep your business running smoothly.

      Locally operated since 1986, Allstate has provided high quality pest control services to homes and businesses in all suburbs of Adelaide.

      Available 24/7 for urgent advice, our highly trained pest technicians are fully equipped with modern pest-detecting tools and innovative, non-toxic treatments, which can be seamlessly integrated into a personalised pest management program for your venue.

      Covered by comprehensive warranty, our pest management program will ensure that your venue stays open for business and compliant to government regulations for the long haul.

      Our expert team is ready to help you now

      or

      8371 1277

      How to Check for Bed Bugs — and What to Do if You Find Them

      How to Check for Bed Bugs — and What to Do if You Find Them

      by | Mar 6, 2025 | Bed Bug

      Bed bugs are making a comeback. Once thought to be a problem of the past, these little bloodsuckers are now turning up everywhere – homes, hotels, offices, even public transport. They don’t care if you live in a luxury apartment in Adelaide or a cosy little unit in Norwood. If they find a way in, they’re staying.

      close up image of a bed bug engorged with blood

      A single bed bug infestation can quickly spiral out of control. Female bedbugs lay thousands of eggs in their lifetime, and surviving eggs hatch in as little as five days. The sooner you find bed bugs, the easier they are to manage.

      How to Check for Bed Bugs

      You probably woke up from a nap on the couch itchy. There’s a line of red bites on your arms. Maybe it’s mosquitoes. Maybe it’s nothing. But then you see tiny brown spots on your couch or sheets. And a sweet, musty odor similar to berries in the room.

      That’s when it hits you: bed bugs!

      Catching them early is crucial. If you miss the signs, they’ll multiply fast. So, where do they hide? And how do you know for sure?

      Where to Look for Bed Bugs

      Bed bugs are masters of hide-and-seek. They squeeze into the smallest cracks, camouflage within the bedding, staying out of sight during the day. But if you know where to look, you can spot them before an infestation gets out of control.

      Here’s where they love to hide:

      • Mattresses and box springs – Check seams, piping, and tags.
      • Bed frames and headboards – Especially cracks and joints in wooden frames.
      • Upholstered furniture – Couches, chairs, even fabric-covered bed heads.
      • Skirting boards and loose wallpaper – Bed bugs slip behind peeling paper and tiny wall cracks.
      • Cracks in walls or flooring – They can hide in crevices near your bed.
      • Suitcases and bags – If you’ve just lodged in a hotel room with bugs, check your luggage and let the hotel call a commercial bed bug control service. 

      Got a torch and a magnifying glass? Use them. These pests are small — about the size of an apple seed — and their eggs are even tinier.

      Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

      Not sure if you’ve got bed bugs? Look for these telltale signs.

      1. Bed Bug Bites

      Bed bug bites look like small, red welts—often in a zigzag pattern or straight line. You’ll usually find them on arms, legs, neck, or back. Unlike mosquito bites, they don’t always itch immediately.

      Some people have no reaction at all. Others might get an allergic reaction or even a skin infection from excessive scratching.

      2. Bloodstains and Fecal Spots

      Do you see rust-coloured stains on your sheets? That could be crushed bed bugs. They leave behind small, dark droppings, often near mattress seams or on your pillow.

      3. Musty Odor

      Are you having a heavy musty odor in your bedroom? That’s a sign of a serious bedbug infestation. When bed bugs gather in large numbers, they release a sickly, sweet, berry smell.

      4. Eggs and Moulted Skins

      Bed bug eggs are tiny, white, and oval-shaped. You might also find shedded skins from growing adult bed bugs. These can be collected in mattress seams, cracks in furniture, or under loose wallpaper.

      How to Draw Bed Bugs Out of Hiding

      If you think you’ve got bed bugs, but you can’t find them, try these tricks:

      • Use heat: Bed bugs love warmth but hate extreme heat. A hairdryer on high can flush them out.
      • CO2 traps: These pest traps mimic human breath, luring them out of hiding.
      • Check at night: They come out to feed on human blood while you sleep.
      • Inspect furniture seams and carpet edges: Use a torch to spot movement.

      Still unsure if you have a bed bug invasion? Call a licensed pest control operator at Allstate Pest Control for a thorough inspection. They know exactly how to find bed bugs, before they take over your home.

      What to Do If You Find Bed Bugs

      So, you’ve found bed bugs. First off, don’t panic. They’re a nightmare, sure. But they’re also treatable. The key is acting fast. The longer they stay, the worse it gets.

      Here’s what to do next.

      Immediate Steps to Take

      1. Isolate the Infested Area – If you find one or two bugs on the bed, don’t start dragging things around. Keep blankets, pillows, and clothes in the room. Moving them around could spread bed bugs to other areas.
      2. Wash Everything on a Hot Setting – Bed sheets, pillowcases, curtains, and even soft toys. Use the hottest water possible. Tumble dry on high heat for one hour. Heat kills bed bugs instantly.
      3. Vacuum Everything – Mattress, box spring, bed frames, carpets, even cracks in the walls. Empty the vacuum cleaner bag straight into a sealed plastic bag. Toss it in an outdoor bin.
      4. Declutter & Check Furniture – Bed bugs love hiding places. If you’ve got stuff piled up near your bed, check it thoroughly. Old books, bedside drawers, even power outlets can be hotspots.

      Caught early, these steps might do the trick. But if the infestation’s bigger, you’ll need something stronger.

      How to Kill Bed Bugs Permanently

      Some home treatments work. Others just waste time. Let’s break it down.

      1. Heat Treatment

      Heat is a bed bug killer. They can’t survive temps over 45°C for an hour. At 60°C, they’ll die instantly. Here’s how to use the temp method: 

      • Professional Heat Machines – Pest control experts use industrial heaters to raise room temperatures to lethal levels. 
      • Hot Water & Tumble Drying – If it fits in your machine, wash it on high heat and then tumble dry it for at least 1 hour.

      You could also try a DIY Freezer Treatment – Small items (like shoes or clothes) can be bagged and frozen for at least 48 hours.

       

      2. Steam Treatment

      Steam works well for mattresses, box springs, and furniture seams. The key is a proper steamer with high temperatures (not your average clothing steamer).

      3. Chemical Treatments

      Some sprays kill live bed bugs, but not bed bug eggs. That means repeat treatments are needed.

      • Over-the-Counter Sprays – A short-term fix, but bed bugs can develop resistance.
      • Professional Pest Control – Licensed experts use stronger chemical treatments that kill bugs at all life stages.

      If the infestation is bad, do-it-yourself options could do nothing to hamper the spread. It’s time to call in the pros.

      When to Call a Licensed Pest Control Operator

      allstate pest control gets rid of bed bugs

      Bed bugs are stubborn. They hide, multiply fast, and resist weak treatments. If you’ve tried everything and they keep coming back? It’s time to call the experts at Allstate Pest Control.

      Here’s what to expect from professional extermination:

      • Inspection & Confirmation – Experts check hiding spots you might miss, like wall voids and electrical outlets.
      • Heat & Chemical Treatment Options – They’ll recommend the best solution based on your home and infestation size.
      • Follow-Up Visits – A proper treatment plan includes rechecks to stop a new infestation from developing.

      Don’t wait until the problem explodes. The sooner you find bedbugs, the easier they are to prevente.

      How to Prevent Future Infestations

      Kicking bed bugs out is one thing. Keeping them out is the real challenge.

      Bed Bug Prevention at Home

      A few smart habits can keep your home bed bug-free.

      • Regular Inspections – Check mattresses, bed frames, and furniture seams at least once a month. Early detection saves headaches.
      • Seal Cracks & Crevices – Bed frames, skirting boards, wall cracks—seal them up. Fewer hiding spots mean fewer bugs.
      • Use Mattress Protectors – A zippered, bed bug-proof cover stops them from burrowing into your mattress.

      How to Avoid Bed Bugs While Traveling

      Hotels, Airbnbs, even taxis — bed bugs love to travel.

      • Inspect Your Hotel Room – Check the mattress, box spring, and bed seams for stains or tiny black dots before settling in.
      • Keep Luggage Off the Floor – Use luggage racks, not the bed. Bed bugs crawl into suitcases fast.
      • Wash Travel Clothes in Hot Water – As soon as you get home, throw everything in the wash—hot setting only.

      Also Read: Your Guide to Bed Bug Control in Adelaide

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Do I have bed bugs or am I just paranoid?

      Bedbug bites usually appear in clusters or a zigzag pattern, often on exposed skin like arms and legs. If you wake up itchy with red bites but don’t see bugs, check for other signs like blood stains or shed skins. If unsure, a licensed pest control operator can confirm an infestation.

      How can you detect bed bugs?

      Look for bed bug bites, tiny blood spots on sheets, and a musty odor near your bed. Check mattress seams, bed frames, skirting boards, and furniture for tiny brown bugs or shed skins. A thorough inspection with a flashlight can help find bedbugs hiding in cracks and crevices.

      How do you draw bed bugs out of hiding?

      Use heat, CO2 traps, or a flashlight to flush them out. Hairdryers can warm up hiding spots and make them move. Sliding a credit card along mattress seams and furniture joints can also force them out.

      What kills bed bugs permanently?

      Heat treatment is the most effective method—bed bugs die at around 50°C. Professional chemical treatments also work, but some bugs develop resistance. Steam and freezer overnight methods can help kill eggs and live bed bugs, but a pest control company provides a more thorough and effective treatment.

      Can bed bugs spread disease?

      No, bed bugs don’t spread disease, but their bites can cause skin infections, allergic reactions, and intense itching. Scratching bites may lead to secondary infections. If bites become swollen or infected, seek medical attention.

      Bed bugs won’t leave on their own. If you spot the signs, act fast. For expert bed bug removal, call Allstate Pest Control—South Australia’s trusted 24/7 pest control team. 

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