Bed bugs are one of those pests no one wants to think about—but ignoring them can make a bad situation much worse. Recently, Buffalo Exterminators was invited to appear on WNY Living to help Western New York homeowners understand the early warning signs of bed bugs and what to do if they suspect a problem.
During the segment, Buffalo Exterminators technicians Robert Mattel and Brandon Shotwell broke down what residents need to know—without panic, myths, or misinformation.
Below is a recap of the key takeaways from the interview, along with guidance on when it’s time to call a professional.
Early Signs of Bed Bugs to Watch For
One of the most important points discussed on the show: catching bed bugs early makes all the difference.
Homeowners should inspect:
- Mattress seams and box springs
- Sheets and bedding
- Furniture near sleeping areas
Common warning signs include:
- Small black dots (bed bug droppings)
- Tiny blood spots on sheets
- Unexplained bites appearing overnight
These signs often appear before people actually see a live bed bug.
How Bed Bugs Get Into Homes (It’s Not About Cleanliness)
A major misconception addressed during the interview is that bed bugs are related to hygiene. They aren’t.
Bed bugs are hitchhikers. They can be picked up from:
- Hotels and Airbnbs
- Hospitals and waiting rooms
- Movie theaters
- Public transportation
- Even another person’s home
They attach to clothing, bags, or furniture and can go unnoticed for weeks before signs appear. This is why any home—clean or cluttered—can be affected.
Why Store-Bought Sprays Usually Don’t Work
Another key point from the segment: spraying a visible bug is rarely enough.
Bed bugs hide deep in:
- Wall voids, Cracks and Crevices, Furniture Joints, Baseboards
If these areas aren’t treated properly, the infestation can continue for months—even after repeated DIY attempts.
This is one of the most common reasons homeowners end up calling professionals after trying to handle it themselves.
How Buffalo Exterminators Handles Bed Bug Treatments
Professional treatment isn’t just about spraying—it’s about process and follow-through.
According to the interview, Buffalo Exterminators’ approach includes:
- Thorough inspection to confirm activity
- Ensuring the home is properly prepped
- Treating baseboards, cracks, and crevices
- Applying dust inside wall voids—a critical step
- A follow-up inspection about two weeks later to ensure the problem is resolved
This follow-up visit is designed to give homeowners peace of mind—not guesswork.
The Biggest Bed Bug Myth: “They’re Only in the Bed”
One of the most costly mistakes homeowners make is assuming bed bugs live only in mattresses.
As discussed on WNY Living, bed bugs often spread into:
- Furniture
- Walls
- Floor cracks
- Baseboards
Throwing out a mattress alone doesn’t solve the problem—and often makes it worse when the bugs simply move to the new bed.
Fast, Local Help When You Need It Most
Bed bug issues aren’t something most people want to wait weeks to address. That’s why Buffalo Exterminators offers same-day or next-day service throughout the Buffalo–Niagara region whenever possible.
If you’re unsure what you’re seeing—or just want confirmation—it’s always better to have a professional inspection than to guess.
Watch the Full WNY Living Segment
Buffalo Exterminators on WNY Living – Channel 2
Need Help or Have Questions?
Buffalo Exterminators is a locally owned and managed pest control company serving Western New York.
Call: 716-800-BUGS
Visit: buffaloexterminators.com
If you suspect bed bugs—or just want peace of mind—reach out. Early action saves time, stress, and money.
FAQ: Bed Bugs in Western New York
How can I tell if I have bed bugs?
Early signs of bed bugs include small black dots on mattresses or sheets, tiny blood stains, and unexplained bites that often appear overnight. Bed bugs typically hide in mattress seams, box springs, furniture, and wall cracks, so a full inspection is important.
Can bed bugs come from clean homes?
Yes. Bed bugs have nothing to do with cleanliness. They are hitchhikers and can be picked up from hotels, Airbnbs, hospitals, movie theaters, public seating, or even another person’s home. Any home can be affected.
Do store-bought sprays work on bed bugs?
Store-bought sprays may kill a visible bed bug, but they usually do not eliminate the infestation. Bed bugs hide in wall voids, baseboards, and furniture cracks. Without professional treatment in these hidden areas, the problem often continues or worsens.
Are bed bugs only found in beds?
No. While bed bugs often start near beds, they spread into furniture, baseboards, walls, and cracks throughout the home. Replacing a mattress alone will not solve the problem and may allow bed bugs to reinfest the new bed.
What should I do if I suspect bed bugs in my home?
If you suspect bed bugs and are unsure what you’re seeing, the best step is to schedule a professional inspection. A trained exterminator can confirm activity and recommend the correct treatment before the infestation spreads.
How quickly can Buffalo Exterminators respond to a bed bug problem?
Buffalo Exterminators offers same-day or next-day service throughout the Buffalo-Niagara region whenever possible. Bed bug issues are treated as a priority due to how quickly infestations can spread.
Does professional bed bug treatment include follow-up?
Yes. Professional treatment includes a detailed inspection, targeted treatment of cracks, crevices, and wall voids, and a follow-up inspection to ensure bed bug activity has been eliminated and to provide peace of mind.
