While it is certainly nice to see family, friends and loved ones during the holiday season throughout December and January, it is more increasingly tainted by the unwanted guests that can sometimes tag along, and stick around undetected for months.
That’s right, while your loved ones are sofa surfing or staying in cheap hotels and B&B’s, there’s an increased risk of picking up bed bugs along the way – leaving you to foot the bill for subsequent bed bug pest control services.
Of course, it isn’t the fault of your friends and family or even the places they have stayed at, per se. Bed bugs can go unnoticed for long periods of time, particularly because not all those who are bitten have the reaction that gives the bed bugs away. For many, the itchy raised bites are the biggest tell-tale sign, but if this is not present, then the problem remains somewhat ignored.
It is hard to determine the root cause of bed bug infestations, because of their nature. They can travel unseen on clothing, animals, suitcases and luggage, hopping on and off hosts along the way until they finally settle in your home.
The number of people traveling across the country and world this season can cause an infestation to emerge in your home. If you suspect you have a problem, then we urge you to contact us for bed bug pest control services immediately, as they can be difficult to get rid of.
Control Methods
There are a number of control methods you can put in place to stop the bed bugs from spreading, feasting on your body and blood each night, not to mention giving you the creeps. First of all, after travelling, vacuum the inside of your suitcase, wash all clothes at a hot temperature and tumble dry to kill off any bed bugs that may be hiding. The same applies for linens, coats, towels and any other wearable items. Store in tightly sealed plastic bags to avoid contaminating again, until the pests have been eliminated.
The areas to check for bed bug activity include your mattress or sofa, headboard, skirting boards, wardrobes, chest of drawers and any other area close to where you sleep. Look out for signs of droppings, dried blood from bites and skin shedding.
You can purchase a mattress encasement that will prevent any bed bugs from living where you sleep – which is a cheap way to put your mind at ease compared to the cost of a new mattress!
The only way to safely remove bed bugs from your home is to call in bed bug pest control services. Here’s to a happy New Year, free from creepy crawlies and bed bugs alike. Please contact us should you require a quote on any of our pest control services in London.
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