It seemed that bed bugs had disappeared in the 1950s, but in recent weeks they have re-emerged in several cities in Europe, especially in Paris, where cases have been detected in homes, cinemas, hospitals and public transport.
The bed bug infestation In France it has generated great social and media alarm, as well as a request for urgent measures by the authorities. Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne has described the situation as an “ordeal” for those affected and has announced the creation of an observatory dedicated to this phenomenon.
These insects are a very difficult pest to eradicate, since they can go unnoticed for months and resist many insecticides. Therefore, it is necessary to become aware of the problem and act quickly and effectively. Only in this way can the advance of these parasites that threaten the quality of life of citizens be stopped.
How to find bed bugs
One of the most common forms of find bed bugs is to observe if there are blood stains or excrement on the bedding or mattress. These spots are usually dark brown or black and may have a sweetish odor. You can also look for shed skin or bed bug eggs, which are small, white, and found near hiding places.
Bed bugs are usually between 1 and 7 millimeters in size, and vary in color from light brown to dark red, depending on whether they have eaten or not, so another way is to use a flashlight or magnifying glass to examine the bugs. possible hiding places. Attention should be paid to cracks and crevices in furniture, walls, baseboards, sockets and switches.
A most accurate way to find bed bugs is to use specific traps or detectors for them. These devices can attract bed bugs with heat, carbon dioxide, or pheromones and capture them with glue or tape. They can be placed in places where bed bugs are suspected, such as under or around the bed, and checked periodically.
How to get rid of bed bugs
If you have already observed the presence of bed bugs in your home, it is time to take action and eliminate them. To do this, we leave you some tips that may help you:
- If you live in a very cold place, ventilate the room and leave the windows open so that the frozen air can enter and kill the bed bugs. These do not tolerate extreme temperatures, so the cold can be a good ally to eliminate them. You can also put clothes, sheets and cushions in plastic bags and freeze them for at least 48 hours.
- If, on the other hand, you live in a warmer place, wash bedding, towels, curtains and clothing you have used in hot water (over 60ºC) and dry them in a dryer at high temperature. This will kill the bed bugs and their eggs.
- Use EPA-registered insecticide products (United States Environmental Protection Agency) or by the health authority. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the product to places where you have seen bed bugs or their traces. Be careful not to breathe the product or leave it within the reach of children or pets.
- Try some natural remedies that can repel or kill bed bugssuch as vinegar, baking soda, diatomaceous earth, neem oil, peppermint oil, isopropyl alcohol, guava leaves, cloves, or turmeric. You can spray them on the affected surfaces or make a paste and apply it to the bites to relieve itching.
If bed bugs persist or you have a severe infestation, it is best to contact a professional specialized in pest control. They will be able to evaluate the situation and offer you an appropriate solution.
How to eliminate bed bugs quickly with home remedies
As we have mentioned, there are several methods to combat bed bugs, such as the use of insecticides, heat, cold or vacuuming. However, you can also choose to use home remedies:
- Baking soda: This product has properties that can absorb moisture and dehydrate bed bugs. Additionally, it can alter the pH of bed bugs’ skin and blood, making it difficult for them to survive. To use this remedy, you must spread a thin layer over the corresponding areas and leave it to act for a few days and then vacuum up the dust.
- Tea tree oil: This essential oil has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and repellent properties that can help prevent and treat bed bug bites. Additionally, it has a strong odor that can scare away bed bugs. A few drops of tea tree oil should be diluted in water and sprayed on the affected areas. You will have to repeat the process every two or three days until the infestation is eliminated.
- The vinegar: This liquid has acidic properties that can burn and kill bed bugs on contact. To use it, soak a cloth or sponge in vinegar and rub the areas where you can see bed bugs or their traces. Be careful not to damage fabrics or delicate materials with this product.
Prevent bed bugs from appearing
“Prevention is better than cure.” Let’s use the Spanish proverb to prevent bedbugs from appearing at home by following these protective measures:
- Check second-hand furniture before buying it or bringing it into your home.: It is possible that they contain eggs or adult bed bugs that can infest the home. If you detect any signs of bed bugs, such as blood stains or excrement, discard the furniture or treat it with specific products.
- Use protective covers on mattresses and box springs: These covers prevent bed bugs from accessing the inside of the mattress or leaving it. Check them periodically for holes or tears.
- Maintain order and cleanliness in the house: Vacuum floors, rugs, upholstered furniture and curtains frequently. You should also wash bedding and clothing at high temperatures and dry them well.
- Take precautions when traveling: The hotel room, especially the mattress and headboard, should be inspected for bed bugs. Avoid placing luggage on the floor or near the bed. When you return home, check your luggage and wash any clothes you have worn.