In the quiet corners of our homes and businesses, a silent invader is making its presence known. Recent reports from Pest Control leader Rentokil have exposed a startling 65% surge in bedbug cases across the UK in the second quarter of 2023 compared to the previous year. Bed bugs, if left unchecked, not only pose a threat to our well-being but can also lead to significant financial consequences.
Know Your Enemy: Adult Bed Bugs
Meet the adversaries: adult bed bugs. Approximately 5mm in size, these pests sport round brown bodies, appearing flat when unfed and more rounded when fed. Their uncanny ability to hide anywhere within a property and easily transport to new locations makes them a formidable foe. Keep a watchful eye for tiny rust spots on bed linens or under cushions—tell-tale signs of their presence.
Prevention is Key: The Simple Vacuuming Rule
In warm environments around 21 degrees Celsius, the bed bug life cycle from egg to adult takes approximately 37 days. Implementing a simple yet effective vacuuming rule can significantly reduce the risk of bed bug breeding. Vacuum mattresses, on both sides, pull out beds, vacuum carpets thoroughly (including skirting boards), and address all movable items, repeat every two weeks. Dispose of vacuum bags cautiously, sealing them in a bin bag, especially before venturing into other properties if you do so.
Treatment: Beyond Vacuuming
Discovering an infestation demands more than a mere vacuuming routine. Chemical treatment by a competent professional is imperative. However, it’s crucial to understand that there’s no quick fix to bed bug infestations. Post-chemical treatment, diligently continue the vacuuming rule at least every two weeks for six weeks, then transition to a monthly routine for ongoing prevention.
Long-Term Prevention: A Comprehensive Approach
Adopt a proactive stance against bed bugs by assessing the soft furnishings in your property. Are your cushions washable? Schedule professional carpet cleaning yearly and invest in steam extraction cleaning for curtains and mattresses.
How We Conduct Treatment: Meticulous and Thorough
At Spick ‘N’ Span Services we’re committed to providing you with a secure and pest-free environment. Our approach involves treating each room meticulously, from ceiling to floor, using a slow-acting chemical to halt egg development. Plastics, timber, stone, and soft furnishings undergo a thorough wash, while carpets receive a meticulous vacuuming. Upholstery, carpet, and curtains are cleaned, and the room is fogged with a chemical, ensuring comprehensive bed bug removal. This chemical strips bed bugs of their waxy coating, causing dehydration and preventing reproduction and feeding.
In the face of this growing concern, we urge you to take action against these unwanted invaders. Should you require our expertise or have any questions, our team at Spick ‘N’ Span Services is here to help.
Call us at 01758 614 200 or email enquiries@spicknspanservices.co.uk.