how to use your detectors
For use on a bed:
1. Remove from packaging and install the dowels into the end holes on the back of the detectors.
2. Install detectors by lifting the mattress and placing dowels between the mattress and box spring, with the detector at the edge of the mattress but not hanging over.
3. Place two on each side of the bed evenly spaced. To avoid breaking the dowels don't place them where you would sit on the edge of the bed.
4. For twin and full size beds place one detector at each end. For queen and king size beds put two at each end evenly spaced.
5. The best time to check them is in the morning, but they can be checked at any time. Hold them up to a light source or shine a flashlight into the holes.
6. The bed bugs are flat and oval shaped. They range in size from infants, which are clear in color and smaller than the size of a grain of sand, to adults which are black and can be up to about 3/16th of an inch long. They will leave black spots on the wood in the corners of the holes after eating, allowing you to know they have been there, even if they leave before you check them. The eggs are very small and not easily spotted with the naked eye but are white in color.
7. If you see live bed bugs in the holes, place the detectors on a solid surface that wont be damaged by steam and slowly pass a hot steam iron over the holes. The steam will kill the bugs instantly and also destroy the eggs if any are in the holes. A high steam volume, low pressure, upright clothing/drapery steamer may also be used. I do not use the small hand held steamers as most of them have a high pressure steam that tends to blow the bugs away without killing them.
8. Tap the detector, face down, on a solid surface and the dead insects will fall out of the holes readying the detectors for re-installation and reuse. If the bugs don't fall out they are probably not dead and should be re-steamed.
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Other locations:
1. Place in any location desired such as on a bed frame, under your desk at work, in a suitcase or under seat cushions on your couch, taxi, or bus, ensureing the holes are not covered to allow bugs to enter the detector. They can be used anywhere that people hang out. The dowels may not be needed for all locations.
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Caution: Keep in mind these are small pieces of wood and can pose a choking hazard. There may also be splinters. Keep away from small children and pets.
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