How to Spot Bedbugs
It can be quite hard to spot if you have an infestation of bedbugs. Bedbugs are small, usually measuring between 1 and 7mm, brown oval insects. Bedbugs are nocturnal insects that feed on blood, animal or human, they are not fussy. After feeding their bodies are engorged with blood and change to a reddish-brown colour. Whilst they do not carry or transmit infectious diseases they can be distressing to live with.
How Bedbug Infestations Occur
Contrary to common perception, an infestation of bedbugs is in no way related to the cleanliness of the home. Bedbugs feed on blood so the environment is irrelevant to them. Bedbugs are normally introduced to the home via clothing, mattresses, beds, headboards, sofas and other soft furnishings (especially second hand) and even via your luggage. They typically hide in mattresses, bed frames and headboards as they are within easy reach of their prey at night, that is you! Bedbugs live in groups but do not build nests, their flat bodies allow them to slip into the tiniest of spaces and so they can be rather hard to spot.
How to Spot Bedbugs
The most noticeable tell-tale sign of a bedbug infestation is their bites. If you or other members of your household wake up with itchy areas that you did not have before you went to sleep, it could be a sign of bedbug activity. The good news is that bedbug bites rarely cause health concerns, if you are worried, check out this Bedbug post from the NHS.
Bedbug signs to check for:
- Bites on exposed areas of skin, face, neck, ankles, feet, hands
- Blood spots on your bedding, this might be from the bites or inadvertently squashing them as you shift around at night
- Small brown spots on bedding, walls and furniture (bedbug excrement)
Less obvious signs:
- Strong musty odour created by the bedbug’s scent glands
- Egg shells and shed skin in the areas the bedbugs hide
What to do about Bedbugs
The first place to start when tackling a bedbug infestation is to clear all clutter from your bedside. Wash all bedding and clothing in a hot wash (60 degree) alternatively, enclose items in a sealed plastic bag and place in the freezer for 4 days. If you vacuum or have vacuumed the area, dispose of the contents in a sealed bag to prevent a re-infestation. Bedbugs can live up to a year without feeding and they are fairly resistant to common insecticides, so getting rid of them is not the easiest of tasks. If in doubt call a local Pest Control company like us as we have access to specialist equipment and treatment techniques!
At iX5 Pest Control, we offer bedbug pest control for domestic premises and businesses in Northampton, Daventry, Rugby, Market Harborough, Towcester, Brackley, Wellingborough, Kettering, Corby, Olney and all of the surrounding areas. Our team of specialists are available both evenings and weekends at no extra cost. Should you require assistance call us on 01604 328545 or email us on [email protected]