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You've heard the warnings, but bedbugs are usually the last thing on your mind when your head hits the pillow. Well, here's the bad news -- not only are these pests real, their sucky reputation is well deserved. The good news is bed bugs don't transmit diseases, so their bites are merely unpleasant (and itchy). This research article from the Ohio State entomology department explains everything you ever wanted to know about bed bugs, but were too sleepy to ask. Known as Cimex lectularius in scientific circles, they've been "documented as pests since the 17th century." Like all things annoying, these parasites often survive visits from the
exterminator due to their ability to hide in bedding, clothes, and dark spaces. So how did your bed become infected? You're a relatively clean person, right? This site from the aptly named Bug Clinic blames the problem (especially prevalent in hotels) on increased world travel. Bedbugs latch on to luggage and clothes and then make themselves at home in your bedroom and couch. As for how to get rid of them -- an ounce of prevention is worth a gallon of insecticide. Seal up any cracks and be careful of buying secondhand stuff. If you're already itching, break out the flashlight and assess the problem. If the infestation is localized to one particular area,
call the exterminator and hope for the best. These days, sleeping "tight" just isn't enough.
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