Just the thought of bed bugs is enough to send a chill down your spine, isn’t it? At Meelu, we know how unsettling it is to imagine those tiny pests sneaking into your sanctuary. We’re here to help you understand what causes bed bugs, how to spot them, and most importantly, how to keep them far, far away from your home (and your bed!).

What causes bed bugs?

Bed bugs are the ultimate hitchhikers. They don’t magically appear in your home but are usually brought in from somewhere else. Here are the main culprits:

Travel: Hotels, planes, and public transport can all be hotspots for bed bugs. They’ll latch onto your luggage or clothing and come home with you.

Used furniture: That thrift-store couch or secondhand mattress might look like a steal, but it could be hiding some unwanted guests.

Close living spaces: If you live in a duplex or flat, bed bugs can crawl through walls or pipes from a neighbouring unit.

Their small, flat bodies allow them to slip into tiny cracks and crevices — think the thickness of a credit card! Once inside, they settle in wherever they can find a meal (a.k.a. you).

Signs of bed bugs

Now that you know what causes bed bugs, let’s go over the telltale signs of a bed bug infestation. If you’re dealing with these pests, you’ll likely notice:

1. Itchy, red bite marks

Waking up with clusters of red, flat bites that weren’t there the night before? Bed bugs might be the culprit. They tend to bite exposed skin, often leading to restless nights (and lots of scratching).

2. Blood spots on bedding

Tiny, rusty-coloured spots on your sheets or pillowcases could be bed bug leftovers from feeding. Gross, but useful to know.

3. Shed skins

As they grow, bed bugs shed their skin. These oval, brownish shells are often left behind in their hiding spots.

4. A musty smell

Got a mysterious wet-towel smell in your room? A strong musty odor could indicate a heavy bed bug presence.

5. Live bugs

Finally, you might spot the bugs themselves. Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed — small, flat, and brown (or reddish if they’ve recently fed).

How to stop bed bugs from entering your home

The good news is that with some simple precautions, you can make your home much less inviting to bed bugs.

1. Be smart when travelling

When staying in hotels or visiting friends, keep your luggage off the floor or bed. Use a suitcase stand if available. When you return home, wash your clothes immediately and toss them in the dryer on high heat for extra peace of mind.

2. Inspect used items

Love a good secondhand deal? Check used furniture, mattresses, and even clothing thoroughly before bringing them inside. Look for signs of bed bugs, like shed skins or tiny black spots.

3. Protect your bed

Invest in a zippered, bed-bug-proof mattress cover. These covers trap any bugs already inside and prevent new ones from getting in. Check it regularly for tears.

4. Keep your space tidy

Clutter gives bed bugs more places to hide. Regular vacuuming and reducing mess around your bed can make a big difference. Don’t forget to vacuum your mattress and upholstered furniture!

5. Seal cracks and crevices

Bed bugs are sneaky little things. Seal cracks around baseboards, outlets, and windows to limit their hiding spots.

What to do if you already have bed bugs

If you’ve confirmed an infestation, don’t panic. Here’s how to take action:

Wash everything: Strip your bedding, wash it in hot water, and dry it on high heat. Do the same with curtains, clothes, and any fabric items nearby.

Vacuum daily: Vacuum your mattress, bed frame, and surrounding areas. Empty the vacuum into a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it outside immediately.

Use heat: Bed bugs can’t survive high heat. If you live in a warm area, place infested items in sealed bags in your car on a sunny day. 

Call the pros: Sometimes, you just need professional help. Pest control experts have the tools to eliminate even stubborn infestations.

You may also be interested in: Cleaning the bed: Hygiene habits to add to your routine

And if you’re ready to upgrade to a comfy, cosy, bed-bug-free mattress, check out Meelu’s selection of high-quality options that’ll make bedtime your favourite time of day. Bed bugs might be small, but understanding what causes bed bugs and how to keep them out of your home is a big deal.

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