Bed Bug Control

There’s an old saying ‘sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite’, but bed bugs or Cimex lectularius are not just confined to beds. And they can travel.

What are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are bloodsucking or hematophagous insects and are attracted to the presence of a host by carbon dioxide, warmth and certain chemicals which we humans exude. They prefer areas of exposed skin to feed on, so bedtime is an ideal time for them as we generally have exposed arms, neck and face.

Adult bed bugs grow to around 4-5mm and are reddish brown in colour and can sometimes be mistaken for other insects but will emit a bad odour when crushed. They can come into your home in various ways; on clothing, used sofas or beds and in luggage – and because of their flattened bodies, can hide in tiny spaces.

What are the signs that bed bugs are present?

Have you woken up itching? Then you may have a bed bug problem. The only way to be sure you have bed bugs is with a visual confirmation — that means finding actual bed bugs, bed bug cast skins, bed bug eggs, or bed bug fecal stains, and having these confirmed by someone who is qualified to ID them.

What can I do?

You can help to reduce the risk of bed bugs in your home by checking any second hand furniture you buy before you bring it home. Using a protective mattress cover to eliminate places where bugs can hide and vacuuming frequently making sure you include the bed and surrounding area, will all help. However, if you do find that you have an infestation then  the best thing to do is to call in the experts who understand the issue and are best placed to treat and eradicate the problem.

They can also advise on disposal of infested beds, sofas, carpets and treat luggage. Pest control professionals will have access to chemicals that will treat the problem effectively as bed bugs have become increasingly resistant to over the counter insecticides making it safer for you and your family. And you’ll know that the bed bugs won’t be biting anymore!

Did you know …

Bed bugs feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals, their most common target is humans because, unlike animals with fur, we have a lot of skin exposed for them to bite. As their name suggests they live in beds, but also clothes which helps them to move long distances and also why people coming back from trips bring bed bugs into their homes in their luggage. Whilst bed bugs do not spread disease their bites can become red, itchy and infected.