Spotting bedbugs
Bed bugs are actually small, oval-shaped, flat-bodied insects that have no wings and are brown in color. They can measure between 4 and 7 mm long. Once they have bitten, they take on a reddish tint, this comes from the blood.
Bed bugs then leave small black spots on the sheets or mattress. It’s actually their excrement.
These are insects that live at night and rather in dark and quiet corners. They are attracted to the vibrations, heat, odors and CO2 that humans give off.
Bedbug bites
Bed bug bites can cause skin lesions. It looks like raised red spots that can measure between 5mm and 2cm. They are called maculopapules. Bites can appear on exposed areas of the body: the arms, legs and back in particular. Bedbugs will tend to favor bodies that give off the most heat.
When the infestation begins, the bites group together and form “rows of onions”. If you continue to live in an infested area, then it is possible that the bites will spread to your entire skin. In the early stages of the invasion, it may happen that only one person is affected by the bites, even if two people sleep in the same bed.
How do you know if you have been bitten by bedbugs? You will see bites in a triangle shape, which often come in threes. They are smaller than mosquito bites so you won’t be able to confuse them. The itching is particularly unpleasant and can last at least two weeks!
How to avoid bringing bedbugs into your home?
If you have to take public transportation but are worried about bringing bed bugs with you, you can always use an essential oil spray. Regarding cloves, there are no real scientific studies proving its effectiveness against bedbugs. These insects have developed great resistance as well as several defense mechanisms with several repellents. You can also simply inspect the seat carefully before sitting on it.
It is advisable, if you take public transport, not to put your belongings on the ground but to use specific supports, tables or luggage racks while keeping your bags securely closed.
You should know that the presence of bedbugs does not necessarily mean that a place lacks hygiene. One in ten households are affected by bedbugs according to an ANSES study. Anyone can get bedbugs! You take the risk of bringing some home when you travel. If you are sleeping in a hotel or accommodation, inspect the room, the cupboards, the bed (mattress, pillows, headboard and even box spring). This is the only way to see if there are bedbugs.
As for public transport, the advice is the same, as well as for cinemas. If you return from a trip, avoid putting your luggage or clothes on a bed or armchair. Also take the time to inspect everything. Wash your clothes at least 60°. If possible, put your items in the freezer for 72 hours. If you see bed bugs on your clothes, put them in a plastic bag and seal it tightly until you can treat them.