UK homeowners issued winter bed bug alert amid fresh infestations

As the cold sets in, UK households are cranking up the heating and welcoming visitors into their homes. But human guests aren’t the only ones finding their way indoors. There’s another species — far less loveable — which also tends to surge in numbers during the winter, and it’s safe to say no one is a fan. Winter in Britain has started bringing an unexpected problem that’s spreading rapidly: bed bugs.

The combination of cosy, warm homes coupled with increased social activity creates an ideal environment for these persistent pests. They hitch rides on clothing, bags, and soft furnishings before settling into bedrooms and living spaces — and sucking our blood, quite literally.

Pest expert James Rhoades from ThermoPest is warning UK residents of a rise in infestations across the country, which is leaving homeowners scrambling for effective ways to protect their families and prevent these tiny invaders from taking over.

James explains: “Bed bugs thrive in consistently warm environments, and central heating gives them exactly what they need. During colder months, heating is on for longer, which speeds up their reproduction cycle. That, combined with increased travel, creates a perfect storm for infestations. Even dormant bugs can become active again when warmth returns.”

Now, the pest control specialist has shared seven of his top tips on how to easily spot a bed bug infestation in your home. 

Step 1: Look out for bites and reactions

One of the initial signs many individuals notice is the emergence of red, itchy bites on their skin. Not everyone reacts to bed bug bites, but they often appear in lines or small clusters on exposed areas, such as the neck, arms, and legs.

Step 2: Inspect the bedding for blood stains

Following bites, bed bugs frequently leave tiny blood stains on sheets. These marks can appear when you inadvertently crush a bed bug while sleeping.

Look out for minuscule rust-coloured or red spots on your sheets, pillows, or mattress. Pay particular attention to the areas where your body comes into contact with the bed, especially near the headboard or foot of the bed.

Step 3: Look for faecal marks

Bed bugs excrete dark spots of digested blood, which can be another significant indicator. These resemble tiny dots or smudges and are typically found in places where bed bugs hide. 

Examine the seams and edges of your mattress and box spring. Inspect closely around the corners of your bed frame, beneath pillows, and within the folds of bedding. Check any nearby furniture, like bedside tables or the crevices of upholstered chairs.

Step 4: Search for shed skins

As bed bugs mature, they shed their skins, leaving behind minute, translucent shells. These skins are often discovered near their hiding spots, so inspect along the edges of your mattress and box spring. Look within the crevices of your bed frame and headboard. Don’t overlook the baseboards and cracks in the walls close to your bed.

Step 5: Seek out live bed bugs

The most conclusive evidence of a bed bug infestation is the sighting of live bugs. These critters are known to hide during daylight hours, but a thorough inspection can reveal their presence.

Strip your bed and examine the seams of your mattress and any folds. Use a torch to illuminate dark corners, crevices, and cracks where these pests may be lurking. Focus on areas around the bed, such as the frame, headboard, and even nearby wall decorations or picture frames.

Step 6: Search for bed bug eggs and eggshells

Although bed bug eggs are tiny and hard to spot, they are a critical indicator of an ongoing infestation. These minuscule, white eggs are typically found in clusters in concealed spots. Scrutinise the seams and tufts of your mattress meticulously. Inspect any fissures in the bed frame, behind peeling wallpaper, or along the skirting boards.

Eggs are minute, approximately 1 mm long, and pearly white, often nestled in dark nooks or along furniture seams. Discovering these eggs or eggshells signifies that the infestation is in its reproductive stage, necessitating immediate intervention.

Step 7: Examine surrounding furniture

Bed bugs aren’t limited to your bed. They frequently spread to adjacent furniture, particularly if the infestation has been ongoing for an extended period.

Inspect the seams and cushions of upholstered items, such as sofas and armchairs. Look behind picture frames, curtains, and other objects near your sleeping area. Be vigilant about any small fissures in wooden furniture, as bed bugs can easily conceal themselves in these gaps.

When it comes to eradicating bed bugs, a specialised heat treatment is the most effective and efficient method. It’s swift, leaves no lingering odours or residues, and can be completed in a single visit.

In contrast, more conventional pest control techniques may necessitate multiple visits and are not always entirely successful in fully eliminating the infestation.

During the heat treatment process, specialist heaters elevate the temperature of the affected area to between 50–60°C for several hours. This is sufficient to penetrate deep into furniture and exterminate bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle.

Following a comprehensive inspection, rooms are cooled down to safe temperatures and can be reoccupied on the same day.