British tourists have been urged to make a simple check while travelling this summer, or they risk bringing bed bugs back home with them. Little you may know, it’s easy for them to travel back with you from hotels, and they can then make themselves comfortable in your bed, which isn’t what anyone wants.
With many people jetting off to get some sun over the next few weeks, the advice is crucial and could just make the difference between your holiday ending on a high or in total disaster. If you listen to expert advice, you just need to make a simple check when you arrive to avoid the pesky creatures from coming home with you.
Laurence Barnard, Country Business Manager and pest control specialist at BASF Pest Control Solutions, shared some advice to help holidaymakers out. With hundreds of followers on Facebook, the company know what they’re talking about.
When asked what attracts bed bugs, Laurence said: “Nothing, in many situations it is simply bad luck if you get them. Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers and can easily be brought into your home without you noticing.
“People often unknowingly attract bed bugs by bringing in used furniture, mattresses or clothing that are already infested. They also catch a ride on luggage, backpacks or even clothing after staying in infested places, like hotels.”
He added: “To reduce the risk, always inspect second-hand items carefully before bringing them indoors, and, when traveling, check beds, headboards and upholstered furniture for signs of bed bugs such as small rust-coloured spots.”
The expert also shared some advice on what people can do to prevent bed bugs too. It turns out, there are a few things people can put in place to deter them.
Laurence said: “Preventing bed bugs requires a proactive approach. Maintain a clean living environment by regularly vacuuming floors, mattresses and upholstery to remove any stray bugs or eggs.
“Reduce clutter where bed bugs can hide, such as piles of clothing or boxes from under the bed. When returning from trips, unpack luggage in a garage or laundry room and wash all clothing in hot water immediately.
“If you suspect an infestation, don’t delay in seeking professional pest control services.” Following these simple rules can really make a difference to preventing the pests from taking over.
What are bed bugs?
The NHS states: “Bed bugs are small insects that often live on furniture or bedding. Their bites can be itchy, but do not usually cause other health problems.”
They can hide in many places, such as on bed frames, mattresses, clothing, furniture, behind pictures and under loose wallpaper. There are a few signs you can look out for to spot them.
Firstly, they bite the skin while you sleep, so you could notice bite marks on areas such as the face, neck and arms. As well as this, there may also be blood on your bedding.
This is because sometimes you can bleed when they bite, or you may simply squash the little creatures while you sleep too. There may also be small brown spots on bedding or furniture that could be bed bug poo.
If you’re worried you have beg bugs, contact a pest control expert for advice. They’ll be able to best advise what to do next.