A pest control expert has warned homeowners about the key bed bug infestation signs to look out for, including a specific smell
Here’s what you need to know(Image: Maliflower73 via Getty Images)
An expert has warned people to watch out for a “tell-tale” sign that could indicate a bed bug infestation in their home. Bed bugs are tiny, wingless insects that feed on human blood and typically nest near beds to remain close to their source of sustenance.
According to the British Association of Dermatologists, these pests aren’t deterred by cleanliness – they’re simply seeking their next meal. Norman Smith, who operates Invicta Environmental, a pest control company, urges people to stay alert for an unexpected almond-like odour, which may signal the presence of bed bugs.
This distinctive smell is released when the insects produce pheromones after gathering in substantial numbers, and it’s frequently missed by those unfamiliar with what it means, causing them to blame the scent on other problems like damp.
Smith explained: “When bedbugs have established themselves in large numbers, they release pheromones that create a musty, sweet almond smell. Many people don’t connect this smell with bedbugs and might search for other causes like damp.”
He also emphasised the insects’ ability to stay hidden, which makes them particularly difficult to spot. Smith added: “Most people think they’ll easily see bedbugs crawling around, but they’re incredibly sneaky insects. Their flat bodies allow them to hide in the tiniest cracks and seams of mattresses, bed frames, and furniture.”
Smith warned that these minute pests have mastered the art of stealth, venturing out to feed only when humans are in their most profound slumber and unlikely to detect them. He said: “Bedbugs typically feed for two to five minutes before retreating back to their hiding places. This usually happens between 2am and 5am when people are in their deepest sleep stage.”
How to spot bed bugs in your home
The bedroom expert also highlighted another tell-tale sign – rust-coloured stains on sheets and mattresses, which are frequently misidentified. He explained: “People often mistake these small brownish stains for dirt or other marks, but they’re actually bedbug droppings.
“The dark brown or rust-coloured spots can stain bed linen and mattresses, and are a major red flag that bedbugs have moved in.”
He went on to say that discovering blood spots on sheets serves as another crucial warning sign. He explained: “After feeding, bedbugs can leave small blood spots behind. These aren’t usually from the bite itself, but from the bedbug being squashed if you roll over in your sleep.”
A distinctive bite configuration can also reveal a bedbug infestation. Smith observed: “If you notice bites in a straight line or clustered in a small area, this could be bedbugs.
“It’s sometimes called the ‘breakfast, lunch, and dinner’ pattern because if a bedbug gets disturbed while feeding, it will move a short distance and try again.”
What steps to take if you discover bed bugs
The specialist highlighted how quickly action is needed when tackling bedbug problems, explaining: “Bedbugs reproduce extremely rapidly – a female can lay approximately 200 eggs in just five days. This means a small problem can quickly become a major infestation if not addressed immediately.”
For those worried about bedbugs, Smith advised: “Strip the bed completely and check all seams and piping of the mattress. Don’t forget to inspect the bed frame, particularly in corners and joints. Bedbugs can hide in the smallest cracks – as thin as a credit card.”
When addressing a confirmed infestation, Smith stressed the importance of high-temperature washing, recommending: “Wash all bedding and clothing at 60C if possible, as this temperature kills bedbugs and their eggs. Follow this with a hot tumble dry for at least 30 minutes.”
The British Association of Dermatologists endorses this approach, noting that thermal methods such as laundering at elevated temperatures of 60C or tumble drying for a minimum of 30 minutes can prove effective in eradicating bedbugs and their eggs.
