Tips to protect your home from bed bug infestation

Bed Bug Alert: Paris Rugby World Cup Fans Face Unexpected Souvenirs – How to Protect Your Home from Infestation

There are thousands of Britons currently enjoying the scenes at this years Rugby World Cup in France, however they may be returning home with more than just good memories.

It has emerged that Paris is currently in the midst of a bed bug epidemic, with tourists and residents reporting infestation throughout the French capital.

The team at Brosnan Facility Management can reveal that Google searches for “Bed bugs” have increased by 1900% in the UK over the past 7 days, indicating a growing concern, whilst there’s also been a 2400% increase in searches for the term “Get rid of bed bugs”

But the question is – How do you get rid of these intruders if you’ve traveled back from the French capital?

“When you get home, don’t bring your baggage and suitcases inside straight away. First, put them in an area like a porch or garage. Take a close look at your luggage and everything you brought with you, like bags and clothes, then inspect for the bugs paying close attention to the seams and folds.”

Notes a spokesperson for Brosnan Facility Management

Get your clothes in the washing machine ASAP. Bed bugs can’t handle extreme heats, so a good hot wash is a great starting point, this heat should also get rid of any eggs that may be lurking. From here, grab your hoover and give your luggage a thorough clean. If your bags or clothes have come in contact with any upholstered furniture you’ll want to give them the once over too. Pay close attention to cracks, corners and seams as this is where bed bugs love to hide. Once you’re finished empty the hoover into a sealed bag and throw it out immediately.

Brosnan Facility Management

How Can I Tell If I Have Bed Bugs?

If you’re unsure whether or not there’s bed bug presents, there are a few tell tale signs

“Well the most obvious sign is visible bugs, they’re usually small and a reddish-brown type colour, usually around 5mm long. They do produce eggs which are usually found clustered together and are very, very small, slightly oval shaped and a whiteish colour.“

The Most Common Signs of an Infestation –

Bed bugs usually leave behind little stains wherever they roam, these appear as dark, small spots on surfaces like your mattress, upholstery and bedding. There can also be a scent, described as musty, so if you notice an unusual smell coming from your luggage or clothes, it could be a sign.

What About Bites?

It’s not just a phrase! They do bite and can cause itchy, red blotches. If you do wake up in the morning with a line of random bites on your skin, you’ve got to investigate further as chances are, it’s bed bugs.

Generally speaking if you are worried about a potential bed bug infestation you should isolate the bags/clothing in question in sealed plastic bags until you can confirm there is an issue, then take it from there. Bed bugs are fantastic at staying hidden so you need to be incredibly thorough when searching for them.

About Brosnan Facility Management ; Established in 1997 by brothers Ray and Desmond Brosnan, the team at Brosnan Faciltiy Management specialise in complete facility management and building services.