Bedbug Guide

1. THE DANGERS: WHY WE CONTROL BEDBUGS

ITCHY BITES AND SLEEPLESS NIGHTS

Controlling bed bugs is primarily essential because they are biters. While bed bugs can harbour various pathogens, there's no conclusive evidence of transmission to humans, and it's believed to be unlikely. However, the bites themselves can cause acute irritation and distress.

Bed bug bites can result in different reactions among individuals. Some may develop red, irritating marks and lumps, while others may not react visibly. The bites are often itchy and can lead to painful swelling, and excessive scratching may even cause infections.

Beyond the physical effects, bed bugs can also cause mental distress. In extreme cases, individuals may experience ongoing delusional parasitosis, persisting even after successful treatment has eradicated the infestation.

2. The impact

BEDBUGS AROUND BUSINESSES

Bed bug infestations are most likely to occur in businesses such as hotels, hostels, or bed and breakfasts.

However, it's important to note that bed bugs can also be found in other places with high traffic or favourable conditions, including office buildings, movie theatres, airplanes, and similar locations.

For hospitality businesses, bed bugs can be particularly costly. The expenses may include the replacement of furniture, mattresses, towels, and bedding. In addition to the financial costs, businesses may need to close for extensive treatment.

If customers observe signs of a bedbug infestation on your premises, they may be hesitant to engage in business with you.

3. Pest Facts

BED BUG APPEARANCE

Adult bed bugs exhibit an oval and flattened shape, resembling a small brownish-red disc, approximately the size of an apple seed and measuring between 4-6mm in length. Shed skins of bed bugs are lighter brown, resembling flaky exoskeletons.

These pests lack wings but posses six well-developed legs, facilitating crawling up most vertical surfaces. Their mouthparts are specialised for piercing skin and sucking blood. Bed bug eggs are elongated and whitish-cream, darkening as they approach hatching into larvae.

In their early stages, bed bugs are known as nymphs, appearing tiny and challenging to detect with the naked eye.

4. MANAGING BED BUGS

PREVENTING BEDBUGS

Preventing a bed bug infestation entirely may be challenging due to their unpredictable spread, often occurring through sheer bad luck. However, there are measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of encountering an infestation. Before staying in or moving into accommodation, carefully inspect the area for signs of bed bugs. Focus on checking the edges of the mattress and the headboard.

Avoid placing your luggage directly on the bed or furniture, as this minimises the risk of bed bugs attaching themselves to your belongings. When purchasing second-hand furniture, conduct a thorough check before bringing it into your home. Regular housekeeping practices, such as frequent hoovering and washing of bedding, contribute to a clean environment and may help deter bed bugs.

DIY BEDBUG CONTROL

If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it is strongly advised to take immediate action by contacting a professional pest control company. Attempting self-treatment with amateur pesticides is unlikely to be successful, especially without accurate knowledge of bed bugs.

A 2013 study in the journal Nature Scientific Reports suggested that bedbugs have developed resistance to some insecticides. Using amateur products may exacerbate the infestation, causing bed bugs to migrate to other areas in the house or neighbouring properties.

Professional pest control experts possess the technical knowledge required and have access to a range of products and equipment not available to the general public. If you discover bed bugs, there are steps you can take to eliminate them from your luggage, clothing, and bedding. Wash items at a hot (60°C) temperature setting, tumble dry at a hot setting for at least 30 minutes, dry clean, or place items in a bag and then in the deep freezer for at least three days.