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Do Fleas Kill Bed Bugs

Do Fleas Kill Bed Bugs

Written by: Daniel Connell · Updated on: January 19, 2024

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Key Takeaways

Fleas and bed bugs are common pests that can cause havoc in your home. Fleas mainly infest pets but can also bite humans and transmit diseases. On the other hand, bed bugs prefer to feed on humans and hide in personal belongings, making them a challenging pest to eliminate. Natural remedies like diatomaceous earth and essential oils can effectively kill fleas and repel bed bugs.

While pet medication can eliminate fleas, professional extermination is usually required for bed bugs due to their hiding spots and resilience. It's essential to maintain cleanliness and pest control measures to prevent infestations from both pests. Additionally, flea treatment chemicals like fipronil can also kill bed bugs, but resistance is a concern, so it's best to consult a professional for personalized advice.

These two pests have distinct differences in appearance and behavior, as well as in their preferred hosts. Fleas have a shorter lifespan compared to bed bugs and have the potential to transmit diseases, while bed bugs do not. Knowing the signs of their bites and behaviors can help you identify and address infestations effectively. Seek professional help for infestations to ensure proper treatment and eradication of these pests.

Will Flea Bites Vs Bed Bug Bites Appear Differently On The Skin? What Are The Signs?

Flea bites and bed bug bites can show different signs on the skin. Flea bites often appear on the feet and lower legs, while bed bug bites show up on exposed areas like the face, arms, and legs. Flea bites form in a "breakfast, lunch, and dinner" pattern, smaller than mosquito bites. Bed bug bites appear in groups of three to five in a zigzag pattern, similar in size to mosquito bites.

Bed bug bites are red or pink, itchy bumps that can lead to infection from scratching. They may take a few days or a week to appear and become itchier over time. Flea bites cause small, itchy papules that can turn into open sores or blisters in one to two days. At-home treatment for both includes keeping the bites clean and treating the itch with corticosteroid cream, antihistamine cream, antibacterial ointment, and oatmeal baths.

Bed bug and flea bites usually clear up within one to two weeks with proper treatment. However, professional help might be needed to eliminate both pests, as they can be challenging to get rid of. While both types of bites can cause similar symptoms, their location, size, and pattern can help distinguish between flea bites and bed bug bites.

What Is The Lifespan Of Fleas Compared To Bed Bugs? Do They Overlap?

The lifespan of fleas compared to bed bugs varies significantly. Fleas typically live for 60-100 days but can survive up to a year under ideal conditions. On the other hand, bed bugs have a lifespan of four to six months and can survive up to a year in cool conditions without food. This means that fleas have a shorter lifespan than bed bugs.

However, both pests have various stages of development, including egg, larval, and pupal stages, which can cause some overlap in their life cycles. Fleas are more likely to infest pets, while bed bugs are more likely to infest human sleeping areas.

To determine if fleas can kill bed bugs, we must consider their respective lifespans and feeding habits. Since fleas have a shorter lifespan than bed bugs, it is unlikely that they would be the primary cause of death for bed bugs. However, fleas can transmit diseases to their hosts, which may weaken bed bugs and make them more susceptible to other factors that could lead to their death.

A rotated mattress, much like rotated tires, typically wears more evenly and reduces indentions or support issues.

Do Fleas And Bed Bugs Look Similar To The Naked Eye? What Are The Differences?

Bob's Mattress has a simple return policy for accessories. You have three days from the date of purchase to return items like mattress protectors, sheets, or pillows. The product must be unused, in its original packaging, and with tags still attached.

To start the return process, you'll need your proof of purchase, either the receipt or invoice from your online order. You can choose to return the accessory by mail or visit any Bob's Mattress retail location.

Before shipping or bringing your return to the store, contact Bob's Mattress customer service to get a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and the appropriate return address. Re-package the accessory in its original packaging, including the RMA form and proof of purchase.

If returning by mail, use a trackable shipping method and keep the tracking number for reference. Refund processing can take up to 30 days, and shipping fees are non-refundable.

For in-store returns, bring the unused accessory with original tags and packaging, along with your original receipt or invoice as proof of purchase. Bob's Mattress will inspect the item to ensure it meets their return criteria before processing the refund.

Special ordered or customized accessories are generally non-refundable. Opened or used accessories cannot be returned due to hygiene reasons. Returns without proof of purchase may only be eligible for a merchandise credit.

Do Fleas And Bed Bugs Ever Coexist In The Same Environment?

Yes, they can. Both fleas and bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of their hosts, which can include humans and pets. They may coexist in the same environment, causing discomfort and potential health issues.

While bed bugs are commonly found in home mattresses and furniture, fleas typically infest furry hosts like cats and dogs. However, they may also settle for humans in the absence of other suitable hosts. Bed bugs prefer to feed on humans, whereas fleas generally opt for furry hosts.

Eliminating bed bugs and fleas can be challenging, but understanding the differences between the two can help in identifying and treating an infestation. Bed bug bites may not itch, while flea bites are highly itchy and can even transmit infectious diseases. Bed bugs are flat, oval-shaped, crawl slowly, and cannot fly or jump, while fleas are long and narrow, moving by leaping long distances.

To prevent and treat infestations, it is crucial to seek professional help from exterminators. Pet owners should also consult a veterinarian for flea treatment options for their pets. By taking preventative measures and prompt action, you can avoid discomfort and potential health issues caused by these parasitic insects.

Do Bed Bugs Feed On Animals Like Fleas, Or Only Prefer Humans?

Bed bugs primarily feed on human blood, but they can also feed on the blood of other warm-blooded animals, including cats and dogs. While they do have a preference for humans, they are not strictly limited to our species.

If a bed bug has the choice between feeding on a human and an animal, it will typically choose the human. However, if there are no humans available, they will happily feed on other warm-blooded creatures. Unlike fleas, bed bugs do not live on animals. Instead, they tend to hide in the environment, such as in mattresses, furniture, and other crevices.

While bed bugs can bite pets, they are not known to transmit diseases to humans or animals. However, bed bug bites can still cause skin irritation, itching, and allergic reactions in both humans and pets. It's essential to take action to prevent and treat bed bug infestations in your home to protect both you and your pets from their bites and potential irritation.

Can Using Flea Treatment Chemicals Like Fipronil Also Kill Bed Bugs?

Yes, using flea treatment chemicals like fipronil can also kill bed bugs. However, its effectiveness may vary depending on the population of bed bugs. Fipronil is a broad-use insecticide that works by disrupting the central nervous system of insects when they come into contact with it or ingest it.

Some bed bug populations have developed resistance to fipronil due to a specific mutation in the Rdl gene, which also confers resistance to another insecticide called dieldrin. While fipronil may still be effective against some bed bug populations, other treatments like fluralaner and ivermectin, which are commonly used in veterinary medicine, have shown potential effectiveness against bed bugs.

Fluralaner was found to be highly effective against bed bugs, even those resistant to common insecticides, while ivermectin was found to be ineffective against bed bugs that fed on dosed chickens. It's essential to consult with a pest control professional for tailored advice on the most effective and safe methods for bed bug control.

Can Fleas Transfer Diseases But Bed Bugs Cannot? What Risks Do They Each Pose?

While some mattresses, including hybrid mattresses, may contain fiberglass as a fire barrier to meet flammability requirements, it's not a universal component in all mattresses. Fiberglass is used in certain mattresses to help them pass flammability tests and meet safety standards. However, not all mattresses, including hybrid mattresses, necessarily contain fiberglass.

When it comes to hybrid mattresses made in the USA versus those made overseas, there is no definitive evidence to suggest that one contains less fiberglass than the other. Both types of mattresses are subject to the safety and manufacturing standards of their respective countries, which means that they must meet the same flammability requirements regardless of where they are made.

To ensure that the mattress you're considering is free of fiberglass or other unwanted materials, it's essential to check the product label and descriptions for information about the materials used in the mattress and its fire barrier when shopping for a mattress. Certifications such as CertiPUR-US, Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) can also ensure that the mattress is made with safe and eco-friendly materials.

Do Hybrid Mattresses Made In The Usa Tend To Contain Less Fiberglass Than Ones Made Overseas?

While some mattresses, including hybrid mattresses, may contain fiberglass as a fire barrier to meet flammability requirements, it's not a universal component in all mattresses. Fiberglass is used in certain mattresses to help them pass flammability tests and meet safety standards. However, not all mattresses, including hybrid mattresses, necessarily contain fiberglass.

When it comes to hybrid mattresses made in the USA versus those made overseas, there is no definitive evidence to suggest that one contains less fiberglass than the other. Both types of mattresses are subject to the safety and manufacturing standards of their respective countries, which means that they must meet the same flammability requirements regardless of where they are made.

To ensure that the mattress you're considering is free of fiberglass or other unwanted materials, it's essential to check the product label and descriptions for information about the materials used in the mattress and its fire barrier when shopping for a mattress. Certifications such as CertiPUR-US, Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) can also ensure that the mattress is made with safe and eco-friendly materials.

Do Bed Bug Proof Mattress Covers Really Work To Prevent Infestations?

Yes, they do, but with certain limitations. These covers create an impenetrable barrier around your mattress, stopping bed bugs from escaping and preventing new ones from infesting it. However, they don't protect against infestations in other areas of your home. A well-installed mattress cover can cause bed bugs to starve, but they can survive for days without feeding, depending on the temperature.

Sheets aren't a reliable form of protection, as bed bugs can bite through them. Despite these limitations, mattress encasements can provide full protection for your mattress and box spring if installed correctly. A study found that a mattress covered with a mattress encasement effectively trapped all bed bugs inside for five weeks.

When choosing a mattress encasement, look for one with sturdy sealing mechanisms, such as the Protect-A-Bed AllerZip Smooth Mattress Encasement or the Sleep Defense System Waterproof/Bed Bug Proof Mattress Encasement by Hospitology. However, remember that mattress encasements should be used in conjunction with other bed bug control measures like regular inspections, professional pest control services, and good hygiene practices.

In summary, bed bug proof mattress covers work to prevent infestations, but they are not a standalone solution. They should be part of a comprehensive bed bug control plan that includes regular inspections, professional pest control services, and good hygiene practices.

Can Baby Powder Be Used As A Substitute For Protective Clothing When Dealing With Fiberglass?

No, baby powder cannot replace the necessary protective gear when handling fiberglass. Fiberglass is a hazardous material composed of glass-like fibers that can irritate and damage your lungs, eyes, and skin. It is crucial to wear protective clothing such as coveralls, gloves, and goggles when handling fiberglass to avoid any potential harm.

However, baby powder can be used as an additional measure to prevent itching caused by fiberglass. Rubbing baby powder or corn starch on your hands, arms, neck, and wrists before working with fiberglass can help prevent the fiberglass from sticking to your skin and reduce itchiness. Baby powder should not be used to remove fiberglass particles from your skin as it can worsen irritation and inflammation.

If you come into contact with fiberglass, rinse the affected area with cool water and apply mild soap without rubbing or scratching to avoid embedding the fibers deeper into your skin. Other precautions when dealing with fiberglass include wearing a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves, dust mask, and eye goggles; wearing a mask to avoid inhaling particles; taking a cold shower followed by a hot shower after exposure to rinse off any particles; and seeking medical attention if you experience symptoms like itching, redness, or difficulty breathing.

In conclusion, while baby powder can help alleviate itching caused by fiberglass, it should not be used as a substitute for proper protective clothing. Always follow safety guidelines and wear the appropriate protective gear when handling fiberglass to avoid any potential harm.

About X

X is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, Huffington Post, Washington Post, AskMen, and She Knows. X has personally tested over 268+ mattresses and hundreds of pillows, sheets, beds, and other sleep products.

See Our #1 Researched Mattress in 2024

Rated best for comfort and hotel-feel

Get 450$ OFF Mattresses

References

Do Fleas Kill Bed Bugs

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Fleas and bed bugs are common pests that can cause havoc in your home. Fleas mainly infest pets but can also bite humans and transmit diseases. On the other hand, bed bugs prefer to feed on humans and hide in personal belongings, making them a challenging pest to eliminate. Natural remedies like diatomaceous earth and essential oils can effectively kill fleas and repel bed bugs.

While pet medication can eliminate fleas, professional extermination is usually required for bed bugs due to their hiding spots and resilience. It's essential to maintain cleanliness and pest control measures to prevent infestations from both pests. Additionally, flea treatment chemicals like fipronil can also kill bed bugs, but resistance is a concern, so it's best to consult a professional for personalized advice.

These two pests have distinct differences in appearance and behavior, as well as in their preferred hosts. Fleas have a shorter lifespan compared to bed bugs and have the potential to transmit diseases, while bed bugs do not. Knowing the signs of their bites and behaviors can help you identify and address infestations effectively. Seek professional help for infestations to ensure proper treatment and eradication of these pests.

Will Flea Bites Vs Bed Bug Bites Appear Differently On The Skin? What Are The Signs?

Flea bites and bed bug bites can show different signs on the skin. Flea bites often appear on the feet and lower legs, while bed bug bites show up on exposed areas like the face, arms, and legs. Flea bites form in a "breakfast, lunch, and dinner" pattern, smaller than mosquito bites. Bed bug bites appear in groups of three to five in a zigzag pattern, similar in size to mosquito bites.

Bed bug bites are red or pink, itchy bumps that can lead to infection from scratching. They may take a few days or a week to appear and become itchier over time. Flea bites cause small, itchy papules that can turn into open sores or blisters in one to two days. At-home treatment for both includes keeping the bites clean and treating the itch with corticosteroid cream, antihistamine cream, antibacterial ointment, and oatmeal baths.

Bed bug and flea bites usually clear up within one to two weeks with proper treatment. However, professional help might be needed to eliminate both pests, as they can be challenging to get rid of. While both types of bites can cause similar symptoms, their location, size, and pattern can help distinguish between flea bites and bed bug bites.

What Is The Lifespan Of Fleas Compared To Bed Bugs? Do They Overlap?

The lifespan of fleas compared to bed bugs varies significantly. Fleas typically live for 60-100 days but can survive up to a year under ideal conditions. On the other hand, bed bugs have a lifespan of four to six months and can survive up to a year in cool conditions without food. This means that fleas have a shorter lifespan than bed bugs.

However, both pests have various stages of development, including egg, larval, and pupal stages, which can cause some overlap in their life cycles. Fleas are more likely to infest pets, while bed bugs are more likely to infest human sleeping areas.

To determine if fleas can kill bed bugs, we must consider their respective lifespans and feeding habits. Since fleas have a shorter lifespan than bed bugs, it is unlikely that they would be the primary cause of death for bed bugs. However, fleas can transmit diseases to their hosts, which may weaken bed bugs and make them more susceptible to other factors that could lead to their death.

Do Fleas And Bed Bugs Look Similar To The Naked Eye? What Are The Differences?

Bob's Mattress has a simple return policy for accessories. You have three days from the date of purchase to return items like mattress protectors, sheets, or pillows. The product must be unused, in its original packaging, and with tags still attached.

To start the return process, you'll need your proof of purchase, either the receipt or invoice from your online order. You can choose to return the accessory by mail or visit any Bob's Mattress retail location.

Before shipping or bringing your return to the store, contact Bob's Mattress customer service to get a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and the appropriate return address. Re-package the accessory in its original packaging, including the RMA form and proof of purchase.

If returning by mail, use a trackable shipping method and keep the tracking number for reference. Refund processing can take up to 30 days, and shipping fees are non-refundable.

For in-store returns, bring the unused accessory with original tags and packaging, along with your original receipt or invoice as proof of purchase. Bob's Mattress will inspect the item to ensure it meets their return criteria before processing the refund.

Special ordered or customized accessories are generally non-refundable. Opened or used accessories cannot be returned due to hygiene reasons. Returns without proof of purchase may only be eligible for a merchandise credit.

Do Fleas And Bed Bugs Ever Coexist In The Same Environment?

Yes, they can. Both fleas and bed bugs are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of their hosts, which can include humans and pets. They may coexist in the same environment, causing discomfort and potential health issues.

While bed bugs are commonly found in home mattresses and furniture, fleas typically infest furry hosts like cats and dogs. However, they may also settle for humans in the absence of other suitable hosts. Bed bugs prefer to feed on humans, whereas fleas generally opt for furry hosts.

Eliminating bed bugs and fleas can be challenging, but understanding the differences between the two can help in identifying and treating an infestation. Bed bug bites may not itch, while flea bites are highly itchy and can even transmit infectious diseases. Bed bugs are flat, oval-shaped, crawl slowly, and cannot fly or jump, while fleas are long and narrow, moving by leaping long distances.

To prevent and treat infestations, it is crucial to seek professional help from exterminators. Pet owners should also consult a veterinarian for flea treatment options for their pets. By taking preventative measures and prompt action, you can avoid discomfort and potential health issues caused by these parasitic insects.

Do Bed Bugs Feed On Animals Like Fleas, Or Only Prefer Humans?

Bed bugs primarily feed on human blood, but they can also feed on the blood of other warm-blooded animals, including cats and dogs. While they do have a preference for humans, they are not strictly limited to our species.

If a bed bug has the choice between feeding on a human and an animal, it will typically choose the human. However, if there are no humans available, they will happily feed on other warm-blooded creatures. Unlike fleas, bed bugs do not live on animals. Instead, they tend to hide in the environment, such as in mattresses, furniture, and other crevices.

While bed bugs can bite pets, they are not known to transmit diseases to humans or animals. However, bed bug bites can still cause skin irritation, itching, and allergic reactions in both humans and pets. It's essential to take action to prevent and treat bed bug infestations in your home to protect both you and your pets from their bites and potential irritation.

Can Using Flea Treatment Chemicals Like Fipronil Also Kill Bed Bugs?

Yes, using flea treatment chemicals like fipronil can also kill bed bugs. However, its effectiveness may vary depending on the population of bed bugs. Fipronil is a broad-use insecticide that works by disrupting the central nervous system of insects when they come into contact with it or ingest it.

Some bed bug populations have developed resistance to fipronil due to a specific mutation in the Rdl gene, which also confers resistance to another insecticide called dieldrin. While fipronil may still be effective against some bed bug populations, other treatments like fluralaner and ivermectin, which are commonly used in veterinary medicine, have shown potential effectiveness against bed bugs.

Fluralaner was found to be highly effective against bed bugs, even those resistant to common insecticides, while ivermectin was found to be ineffective against bed bugs that fed on dosed chickens. It's essential to consult with a pest control professional for tailored advice on the most effective and safe methods for bed bug control.

Can Fleas Transfer Diseases But Bed Bugs Cannot? What Risks Do They Each Pose?

Fleas can transfer diseases to humans, unlike bed bugs. They spread infections like Plague, Flea-borne (murine) typhus, and Cat scratch disease (CSD). Fleas also carry parasites, such as tapeworms, which can infect both humans and animals if accidentally ingested. Children are especially vulnerable to flea-borne diseases due to their tendency to play near floor levels where fleas thrive. Flea bite dermatitis, internal infections in pets from flea bites, and infestations are other health risks associated with fleas.

Bed bugs, on the contrary, do not transmit diseases. However, their bites can cause itching, sleep disturbances, and excessive scratching that may lead to secondary skin infections. Bed bug bites can also cause allergic reactions and impetigo, a bacterial skin infection. Living in an infested home can negatively impact mental health, potentially causing anxiety and insomnia.

Although both fleas and bed bugs can cause discomfort and health issues, only fleas transmit diseases. To minimize the risks associated with these pests, maintain cleanliness, use appropriate pest control methods, and seek professional help for infestations.

Do Hybrid Mattresses Made In The Usa Tend To Contain Less Fiberglass Than Ones Made Overseas?

While some mattresses, including hybrid mattresses, may contain fiberglass as a fire barrier to meet flammability requirements, it's not a universal component in all mattresses. Fiberglass is used in certain mattresses to help them pass flammability tests and meet safety standards. However, not all mattresses, including hybrid mattresses, necessarily contain fiberglass.

When it comes to hybrid mattresses made in the USA versus those made overseas, there is no definitive evidence to suggest that one contains less fiberglass than the other. Both types of mattresses are subject to the safety and manufacturing standards of their respective countries, which means that they must meet the same flammability requirements regardless of where they are made.

To ensure that the mattress you're considering is free of fiberglass or other unwanted materials, it's essential to check the product label and descriptions for information about the materials used in the mattress and its fire barrier when shopping for a mattress. Certifications such as CertiPUR-US, Global Organic Latex Standard (GOLS), or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) can also ensure that the mattress is made with safe and eco-friendly materials.

Do Bed Bug Proof Mattress Covers Really Work To Prevent Infestations?

Yes, they do, but with certain limitations. These covers create an impenetrable barrier around your mattress, stopping bed bugs from escaping and preventing new ones from infesting it. However, they don't protect against infestations in other areas of your home. A well-installed mattress cover can cause bed bugs to starve, but they can survive for days without feeding, depending on the temperature.

Sheets aren't a reliable form of protection, as bed bugs can bite through them. Despite these limitations, mattress encasements can provide full protection for your mattress and box spring if installed correctly. A study found that a mattress covered with a mattress encasement effectively trapped all bed bugs inside for five weeks.

When choosing a mattress encasement, look for one with sturdy sealing mechanisms, such as the Protect-A-Bed AllerZip Smooth Mattress Encasement or the Sleep Defense System Waterproof/Bed Bug Proof Mattress Encasement by Hospitology. However, remember that mattress encasements should be used in conjunction with other bed bug control measures like regular inspections, professional pest control services, and good hygiene practices.

In summary, bed bug proof mattress covers work to prevent infestations, but they are not a standalone solution. They should be part of a comprehensive bed bug control plan that includes regular inspections, professional pest control services, and good hygiene practices.

Can Baby Powder Be Used As A Substitute For Protective Clothing When Dealing With Fiberglass?

No, baby powder cannot replace the necessary protective gear when handling fiberglass. Fiberglass is a hazardous material composed of glass-like fibers that can irritate and damage your lungs, eyes, and skin. It is crucial to wear protective clothing such as coveralls, gloves, and goggles when handling fiberglass to avoid any potential harm.

However, baby powder can be used as an additional measure to prevent itching caused by fiberglass. Rubbing baby powder or corn starch on your hands, arms, neck, and wrists before working with fiberglass can help prevent the fiberglass from sticking to your skin and reduce itchiness. Baby powder should not be used to remove fiberglass particles from your skin as it can worsen irritation and inflammation.

If you come into contact with fiberglass, rinse the affected area with cool water and apply mild soap without rubbing or scratching to avoid embedding the fibers deeper into your skin. Other precautions when dealing with fiberglass include wearing a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves, dust mask, and eye goggles; wearing a mask to avoid inhaling particles; taking a cold shower followed by a hot shower after exposure to rinse off any particles; and seeking medical attention if you experience symptoms like itching, redness, or difficulty breathing.

In conclusion, while baby powder can help alleviate itching caused by fiberglass, it should not be used as a substitute for proper protective clothing. Always follow safety guidelines and wear the appropriate protective gear when handling fiberglass to avoid any potential harm.