Bed bugs in the news
There is a growing concern about bed bugs infesting London, following a recent outbreak in Paris. The French capital is currently experiencing a surge in bedbugs, with reports of sightings in cinemas, on the Metro system, and even at Charles de Gaulle airport. Bed bugs are notoriously easy to pick up and can easily be brought home on clothes or in luggage. Unfortunately, they have become increasingly resistant to insecticides, making them even harder to get rid of. So it is important to know how to spot bed bugs, what to do if you them and ways to prevent them.
What are bed bugs?
So, what exactly are bed bugs? Well, they are tiny insects that feed on human blood. They love to hide in mattresses, bedding, furniture, and even cracks in the walls. They are experts at staying hidden during the day and coming out to feast on you while you sleep! These pesky little creatures can turn a peaceful night's sleep into a nightmare.
Is it a bed bug?
Bed bugs can be dark yellow, red or brown, are wingless, range from 1mm to 7mm, and can live several months without a blood meal. (photo NHS website)
Have I got a bed bug infestation?
One of the obvious signs of a bed bug infestation is the appearance of bite marks on your face, neck, arms, hands, or any other part of your body while you are sleeping. It is important to note, however, that these bite marks may not show up for up to 14 days in some individuals. Therefore, it becomes crucial to look for other indicators when trying to determine if an area has been infested by bed bugs.
These additional signs include:
- The presence of bed bugs' exoskeletons, which they shed after moulting.
- Discovering bed bugs hiding in the folds of mattresses and sheets.
- Noticing rusty-coloured blood spots, which are caused by the bed bugs' poo that contains their blood meals. These spots can be found on the mattress or nearby furniture.
- Detecting a sweet musty odour, which can be an indication of a bed bug infestation.
How to prevent bed bugs
But fear not we are here to arm you with the knowledge and tips to keep these blood-sucking pests at bay. First and foremost, be vigilant when traveling or staying in hotels. Inspect your room thoroughly for any signs of bed bugs before settling in.
Here are some key prevention measures for your home:
- Keep your sleeping area at home clean and clutter-free, especially around your bed.
- Clean and vacuum regularly – bed bugs are found in both clean and dirty homes, but regular cleaning will help you spot them early. Additionally, vacuum your mattress regularly and use mattress and pillow protectors.
- Check second hand items thoroughly before bringing them into your home.
- Wash your bedding and nightwear regularly.
Bed bugs hate bamboo!
One of the best ways to prevent bed bugs taking up residence is by switching to bamboo bedding. Bamboo fabric is extremely absorbent and breathable, up to three times that of cotton. Bamboo’s naturally antibacterial and moisture-wicking properties create an inhospitable environment for parasites such as dust mites and bed bugs. These hypoallergenic properties also mean that bamboo is very kind to your skin, helping asthma and allergy sufferers.
Remember, prevention is key when it comes to dealing with bed bugs. By taking proactive measures like sealing cracks in walls or furniture, using protective covers on mattresses and pillows and switching to bamboo sheets, you can greatly reduce the chances of an infestation.
So rest easy knowing that with a little knowledge and some preventative measures, those bothersome bed bugs won't stand a chance!