Bedbug infestations up 65% - how to get rid of them
Warning! This article is likely to make you itch!
Bedbugs are causing quite the buzz right now, mainly because the blood-sucking critters are said to have taken over Paris.
A wave of viral footage shared to social media has seen the pests spotted scuttling over cinema seats, public transport and airport seating and in hotels.
"No one is safe" from bedbugs Emmanuel Gregoire, Paris' deputy mayor warned last week, sparking fears of a wider infestation in nearby towns and countries.
Transport for London are currently keeping an eye on any potential bedbug outbreaks caused by the critters hopping on the Eurostar to roam freely around the capital’s tube network. Yikes!
While Paris is currently clocking up headlines for battling the bugs, it seems the UK has also seen a rise in the pest population, with bedbug infestations surging by over 50% in the past five years.
This makes them the most common pest issue, accounting for more than a quarter of all pest control call-outs, according to the British Pest Control Association.
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Last month alone, pest control company Rentokil reported a 65% increase year-on-year in infestations across the UK.
So what's causing this itch-inducing infestation?
Some experts have put the influx down to increased travel during the summer months as Brits jet off and return from their sunny holidays.
But according to the British Pest Control Association the summer and early Autumn months are particularly risky when it comes to bedbugs as they thrive in warm temperatures between 21 and 32°C.
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However, there is another potential cause in the form of the growth in popularity of second-hand furniture.
"The pre-loved market is booming in the UK due to the current cost-of-living crisis," explains Martin Seeley, the CEO and bed expert at MattressNextDay. "However, this growing trend comes with a cautionary note, as the increased trade in second-hand furniture also correlates with a rise in bedbug infestations.
Seeley says the resilient pests are capable of concealing themselves within various surfaces, including upholstered furniture such as headboards and chairs.
"Unfortunately, bedbugs can also last up to 18 months without food. So, buying used furniture that has been stored for several months is still not completely safe and can still be home to thousands of bedbugs."
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What are bedbugs?
The NHS says bedbugs are small insects that often live on furniture or bedding. Their bites can be itchy, but do not usually cause other health problems.
How do bedbugs find their way into our homes?
Bedbugs don’t just scuttle in through open doors or windows, they need to be carried in and commonly attach themselves to luggage, bags, clothes or through second-hand furniture and even laptops.
How to spot a bedbug infestation
If you experience any of the following the BPCA say you may have bedbugs:
Red, irritating bites, typically in rows on your neck, shoulders, back, legs or arms
Small reddish-brown clusters or dark faecal spots (about 1mm wide) that look like an ink dot are usually found on the bed frame, upholstery or the bottom side of the mattress
Small blood smears on the bed linen or headboard
Bedbug moult skins, pale-white eggs, empty eggshells are quite small but still visible to the human eye
Seeing the small brown insects themselves, in and around your bed frame or sleeping area.
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How to protect yourself from bedbugs
Jeannette Hudson, from Online Sofa Shop has put together some tips:
Be aware of signs: First and foremost, it's essential to familiarise yourself with the signs of a bedbug infestation. The insects primarily feed on human blood and are most active at night. Their bites often result in itching, redness, and swelling, typically occurring while you're asleep.
Inspect your home: Whether you’re at home, or staying in a hotel or Airbnb, take the time to thoroughly inspect your space for bedbugs. This includes scrutinising the bed, bedding, and furniture for any signs of infestation.
Launder your belongings: After staying in a hotel or Airbnb, wash your clothes and bedding in hot water. This can help kill any potential bedbugs or their eggs that may have hitched a ride with you.
Regularly vacuum: In your own home, make a habit of regularly vacuuming, paying close attention to potential hiding spots for bedbugs. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately to prevent any potential infestations.
Be cautious with used furniture: If you plan to purchase used furniture, exercise caution. Before bringing any secondhand items into your home, thoroughly inspect them for signs of bedbugs. This simple step can prevent the introduction of bedbugs to your living space.
Maintain cleanliness: Keeping your home clean, and avoiding clutter, can help reduce the risk of bedbug infestations. A well-organised home makes it harder for pests to find suitable hiding spots.
Seal entry points: Prevent bedbugs from gaining entry to your home by sealing any cracks in the foundation and exterior walls.
Seek professional help: If you suspect a bedbug infestation in your home, contact a pest control professional immediately. Bedbug infestations are notoriously challenging to eradicate, and expert assistance is often necessary.
