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What Causes Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are nature's hitchhikers, usually introduced to homes, hotels and businesses by latching onto clothes or luggage. Once they infest, it is near impossible to remove them without professional treatment.

It is a misconception that bed bugs are attracted to dirty areas. In fact, they are often found in luxury hotels and prestigious residential homes. Bed bugs do not discriminate by cleanliness - they go where the blood is.

Although it is unfortunate to fall victim to a bed bug infestation, it is not uncommon and can be treated quickly with professional help.

A single bed bug on fabric - bed bugs hitchhike into homes on clothing, luggage and second-hand furniture

Common Ways Bed Bugs Spread

  • Travel - hotels, B&Bs and hostels are common pickup points
  • Second-hand furniture, especially upholstered items
  • Visitors' luggage and clothing
  • Shared laundry facilities and changing rooms

Why They Are Hard to Stop

  • Adults can survive months without feeding
  • They hide in cracks too small for the human eye
  • Eggs are resistant to most pesticides
  • A single pregnant female can start an infestation

More About Bed Bugs

Bed Bug Treatment Services → Signs of Bed Bugs → How to Prevent Bed Bugs → Species of Bed Bug →
Reviewed by our experts
Roy Couch
Written / verified by
Roy Couch, Technician Manager

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.

LinkedIn

Peter Bowers-Davis
Technically reviewed by
Peter Bowers-Davis, Non-Executive Director, BPCA

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.

LinkedIn · BPCA volunteer profile