Case Study: Storage Bed Frame Infestation
This Toronto bed bug case highlights how storage bed frames with built in drawers can easily become the main source of an ongoing infestation when not treated properly.
A Toronto client had a bed frame with built in drawers in it. The client used these drawers to store clothing and personal items. She eventually started to notice bed bugs in her bedroom and saw that the problem was getting worse.
Concerned, she contacted a pest control company in Toronto for help.
Incomplete Bed Bug Treatment and False Reassurance
The initial company instructed the client to wash all clothing stored inside the bed frame drawers. Then, the company performed what a “full treatment“. They opened the bed frame and treated it briefly, then informed the client that the job was complete.
She was told there were no remaining bed bugs or eggs and was advised to place her clean clothes back into the drawers. She trusted the advice she received, and followed the instructions exactly.
The Return
A couple days after, the client began seeing bed bugs again. The infestation had not been eliminated. In reality, the source of the problem had never been properly addressed.
Frustrated and concerned, she continued searching for a more reliable bed bug extermination company in Toronto. That search eventually led her to Pest Solution Services.
She gave us a call and our entomologist was able to promptly arrived and conduct a thorough inspection of the bedroom and surrounding areas. It quickly became clear that the bed frame itself was still the primary source of the infestation.
Bed Bug Treatment Using IPM Methods
Storage bed frames are difficult to treat because they contain tight joints, hidden voids, drawer tracks, and fabric or wood seams where bed bugs thrive. So our entomologist knew he had to create an effective treatment plan in order to completely exterminate the bugs.
A treatment plan was developed using integrated pest management (IPM) techniques. Mechanical methods were used to address the infestation directly, including crushing visible eggs and targeting hidden harbourages inside the bed frame structure.
During treatment, bed bugs were found inside the drawers and on clothing that had been placed back into the unit. The infestation level was so high that bed bugs were actively moving during service and began crawling onto our entomologist’s coveralls.
Here are 2 videos showing the condition of the infestation:
Video 1: Shows bed bugs crawling on our entomologist
Video 2: Shows bed bugs crawling on the stored clothing of our client
The entire bed frame and affected area were treated thoroughly, with attention given to every joint, drawer cavity, and contact surface. Additional control measures were put in place to prevent further spread and reduce the risk of reinfestation, such as bed bug monitors.
The client was provided with clear guidance on next steps and proper handling of personal items moving forward.
Moral of The Story
When treatments are rushed or incomplete, the infestation survives and returns stronger. A detailed inspection and proper treatment from the start is the only way to stop bed bugs for good and protect your belongings. Thats is exactly why you should choose us for your pest control needs.