Bed bugs are small insects that can cause painful bites similar to those of a mosquito. While they are not known to transmit disease to people, their bites can still lead to infection if a person scratches the area.
To rid your home of bed bugs, all bedding and clothing should be washed with detergent in very hot water. Any stuffed animals or pillows should be put in the dryer for 30 to 45 minutes to kill the insects.
An infested mattress should be thoroughly cleaned with a powerful vacuum, as should the box spring. The seams of the mattress should then be scrubbed with a firm brush.