Everything You Need To Know About Bedbugs

Tuesday, 2 August 2022

 

What Are Bedbugs?

Bedbugs are tiny insects that bite humans to drink their blood, and can typically be found in bedding or furniture. Although they can be irritating, bedbugs generally don’t pose harm or health risks to humans. Regardless, it’s best to take action at the first sign of having bedbugs. 

What Do Bedbugs Look Like?

Bedbugs are small, brown insects. They can also have yellowish or reddish hues, depending on how much they have fed; they will typically also change shape depending on how much they have fed as well. 

What Do Bed Bugbites Look Like?

Bites from bedbugs are usually red and no larger than a ¼”. They can be itchy, and you can have multiple bites in one area. You may also experience a small amount of swelling in the area. 

Multiple bedbug bites on a childs legs
Bedbug Bites

How Do You Get Bedbugs?

Bedbugs usually find their way into your home on things like clothing and bags, upholstery, or used furniture. If you live in apartment buildings or shared accommodation they could also come from other rooms. 

How To Check For Bedbugs

Signs that you have bedbugs include

  • Small brown spots on your bed (bedbug poo)
  • Bite marks
  • Small blood stains on your bed
Bedbug poo markings on a mattress
Bedbug Poo

Make sure to thoroughly check any bedding, duvets, pillows and covers, mattress protectors, and any other fabrics. 

How To Get Rid Of Bedbugs

To get rid of bedbugs, start by cleaning all of your bedding and any clothing you may think has been infected in the washing machine, on the highest possible temperature setting. 

Mattress being hoovered for bedbugs
Hoover your mattress

You should also vacuum your mattress and the surrounding areas to be free of any debris. Continue to vacuum these areas frequently.

Summary

Whilst bedbugs aren’t the biggest scariest insects around, they can cause frustration and irritation. Bedbugs can also be a source of embarrassment or shame, but bedbugs love the taste of human blood, which means pretty much anyone can fall victim to these biting critters.

Following these simple steps can make sure that you remain bed bug free, and now you know how to get rid of them easily if they ever appear in the future!