Preventing Bed Bugs
Preventing bed bugs completely is difficult, but precautions can be taken. The two most important times to be vigilant are when travelling, and during day-to-day cleaning routines at home.
When Travelling
- Check beds for signs of bed bugs before unpacking
- Keep luggage off the bed and away from soft furnishings
- Wash or heat-treat clothes after returning home
- Store suitcases in a cool place like a garage or shed, not a warm cupboard
At Home
- Vacuum regularly and thoroughly, including bed frames and headboards
- Empty the vacuum and dispose of waste outside immediately
- Reduce clutter - bed bugs love hiding places
- Inspect second-hand furniture before bringing it indoors
How Bed Bugs Survive
Bed bugs survive by regularly reproducing as close to their host as possible, and they are excellent at hiding - so you will not often see them in the early stages of an infestation.
Prevention is tough. If you suspect a problem, the most important step is to seek professional help straight away. JG Pest Control can treat the property and also treat luggage and belongings using heat treatment or freeze treatment where chemicals cannot be used. In most cases items can be saved without disposal.
Disposal of Bed Bug Infested Items
In severe cases, some items may need to be disposed of to support eradication. The most common items removed are beds, mattresses, sofas, carpets and rugs. We apply our experience to each situation and advise on what must go and what can be saved.
For items that can be treated, we offer treatment at our own facility plus a collection and delivery service.
More About Bed Bugs
Roy Couch is the Technician Manager at JG Pest Control, leading the technician team across the UK. He holds the BPCA Diploma and the RSPH Level 2 Award in the Safe Use of Aluminium Phosphide, and is qualified in the Safe Use of Rodenticides.
Peter Bowers-Davis is a board volunteer at the British Pest Control Association (BPCA), the UK trade body for professional pest management. He works across the Tyro UK group of companies, including JG, setting technical standards, treatment protocols and training programmes.