Bed bug infestations are on the rise - get rid of the pests for good with an 'important' hack

Woman making bed

Bed bug infestations have risen year on year

PEXELS
Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 17/09/2023

- 06:00

Updated: 18/09/2023

- 15:28

There has been a dramatic rise in bed bugs since last year, according to experts

Bed bug infestations were up a whopping 65 per cent since last year.

An expert has shared how to know if they are in your home and ways to get rid of the pests.


Bed bugs can bite in the night leaving skin broken and itchy, and itchy spots are a common indicator you have bed bugs.

Bed bugs like the dark so they could be easiest to find at night.

Pillow on bed

Bed bugs can be difficult to spot

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Speaking exclusively to GB News, operations manager at The Best Master Sarah Beck explained the signs to look for on furniture that indicate the pests could be in your home.

She said: "First, identify the areas in your home that are infested with bed bugs.

"Look for dark spots or live bugs on mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and even on walls and floor cracks."

Once bed bugs have been found, it is time to get rid of them.

Washing and drying on the highest heat settings is the best way to banish the pests.


Homeowners can also scrub the affected areas with a stiff brush and vacuum the fabric.

Sarah continued: "Once you've identified the infested areas, aim to contain the bugs to prevent them from spreading.

"You can do this by removing and washing all bed linens, curtains, and clothing in hot water and drying them on the highest heat setting.

"Heat treatment is one way to kill bed bugs. If possible, put your clothing and bedding in a dryer on high heat.

"Alternatively, use a stiff brush to scrub mattress seams and remove bed bugs and their eggs before vacuuming thoroughly.

Clean made bed

Keeping a home clean will make them less likely to appear

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"After cleaning and treating the affected areas, monitor them closely for signs of remaining bugs.

"This might include checking for live bugs or dark spots on your mattress and other furniture."

If that doesn't work, Britons can turn the professionals for more in-depth targeting.

Sarah added: "If the infestation persists after these steps, you may need to consider hiring a professional pest control service.

"They can provide more comprehensive and effective treatments, such as insecticides. However, remember that using insecticides alone is not the best solution - maintaining cleanliness and reducing clutter is just as important."

If dealing with pests, experts have shared the best way to get spiders out of the home.

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