Grim ways you're luring bed bugs into your home without even realising

01 February 2024 , 16:44

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Bed bugs aren't something you want in your home (Image: Getty Images)

You could be making mistakes that are encouraging bed bugs into your home without you knowing.

The thought of a bed bug infestation horrified us all late last year as it was reported the bugs had been taking over schools, trains, and hospitals in Paris. And on Thursday it was announced that government offices in Canary Wharf would be evacuated overnight after the insects were found in the building.

Sniffer dogs have also been drafted in to search for infestations amid fears the bugs could spread through the capital. The insects are resistant to pesticides and can be a nightmare to get rid of once they've infiltrated your home, and according to experts, there are mistakes we all make that could be giving them an open invitation.

If you've noticed a bed bug problem in your home, it can be all too tempting to start sleeping somewhere else because you don't want to get bitten again. But this can actually spread the pests to other properties and different areas of your home, which is less than ideal.

Where you suspect there may be a bed bug problem, Smithereen Pest Management Services recommends decluttering the area. They said that "cleaning and throwing away unnecessary items" may help to "reduce the spaces for bed bugs to hide." Also, avoid storing items under the bed. These steps will make it easier for pest experts to eliminate them when they visit. "Place items you wish to discard in a garbage bag, tie it off, and promptly remove it from the home", they shared.

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According to the experts at Smithereen, you mustn't bring second-hand furniture, clothing, or electronics into your home to avoid bed bugs too. They said: "While bargains on used goods are tempting, you never know if the original owner had a bed bug problem of their own."

Experts also shared that it's vital to wash any bedding or clothing that has been impacted by the bed bug infestation. After washing, they said they would put the items in the dryer on the "hottest possible setting."

And of course, if you do suspect that you have bed bugs in your home and you've exhausted all other avenues, pest services will help to get rid of them so your home can be bug-free once more.

Zahna Eklund