We all remember the headlines in 2023, when bed bugs had a major outbreak in Paris.
Although most of us were thoroughly checking our beds and bedding during those weeks, it’s something that many will have forgotten about after the news articles ended.
However, bed bugs are still a big issue, affecting many homes, hotels and public transport vehicles. What’s more, they can spread extremely quickly. So, it’s imperative that you know how to prevent an outbreak in your home and, in the worst case scenario, how to quickly and effectively manage a bed bug outbreak.
Keep reading to find detailed guidance – from the PestCo pest infestation specialists – about how to handle bed bug outbreaks in your home.
What are bed bugs?
Bed bugs are small insects (but still visible to the naked eye), which are flat and are most active at night. They feed on the blood of humans and animals.
Often, they hide themselves in mattresses, bed frames and soft furnishings. But during the day, they can also be found in cracks in walls or floors. So, although they are most commonly associated with beds, they can exist anywhere in a property or public space.
Typically, they spread by transferring from fabric to fabric. For example, they can attach themselves to furniture, clothes or bags, and transfer themselves onto a new person by going from one spot to another.
Once they’ve made their way into a property, they will reproduce rapidly, causing a deeply frustrating and distressing problem.
The impact of a bed bug outbreak
Bed bugs can have a major impact on individual homeowners and businesses alike.
For homes
Bed bug infestations can cause significant stress and loss of sleep. They can also be extremely embarrassing and frustrating, and the treatment process can take a lot of time.
For businesses
If a bed bug outbreak occurs in a hotel, rental property or retail store, the businesses’ reputation can be extremely damaging, and result in poor reviews and financial losses. During the 2023 Paris outbreak, we saw just how much public confidence can be impacted by a bed bug outbreak.
For personal health
Bed bug bites usually look like small red welts, positioned in a line or group. The bites (although not dangerous) can cause irritation and in some cases, lead to skin infections.
How to prevent a bed bug outbreak
Thankfully, there are steps that you can take to minimise the risk of a bed bug outbreak occurring in your property.
Inspect hotel beds
When staying in a hotel, inspect the bed, mattress and any other soft furnishings, blankets or cushions. Look for any signs of bed bugs or their droppings.
Be cautious with your luggage
When travelling, avoid putting your luggage on the floor (use stands wherever possible). When you get back, inspect your luggage carefully.
Be careful when buying second-hand furniture
When buying second-hand furniture, be sure to inspect it first. You may also want to expose it to a light treatment, before bringing it inside.
Generally keep your property clean
Vacuum regularly, and clean your bedding and soft furnishing routinely.
How to manage a bed bug outbreak
If a bed bug outbreak has already occurred in your property, it is vital that you act quickly.
To manage the outbreak, follow these steps:
Contact a professional pest controller
Immediately get in contact with an accredited, licensed pest controller. They will use a range of precise, specialist methods, including heat treatments and targeted insecticides, and their services are, by far, the most effective and efficient way to treat an outbreak.
Keep your property clean
In parallel, you can help tackle the issue yourself by maintaining high cleaning standards across your property. Wash and tumble-dry all your bedding, clothing and curtains, on a high heat. Thoroughly vacuum the entire property, and then dispose of the contents in a sealed bag, outside the property. You may also want to cover your mattress with a specialist anti-bed bug covering, while the treatment is still taking place.
At PestCo, we are one of the UK’s leading pest control experts. Our skilled team have over 30 years of experience in the business, offering swift yet comprehensive services, at affordable prices.
To enlist our team to address a bed bug infestation in your property, get in touch today.
