How to get rid of Bed Bugs

Eliminate Bedbugs - Home Call Out Service

Our call out service offers professional, convenient solutions to get rid of bedbugs quickly and safely:

  • 24 hour response (Mon - Fri) with appointment times convenient for you
  • Friendly and knowledgeable local technicians, ensuring the highest level of safety for your family and pets
  • Call us NOW on 0800 218 2210 to arrange for a Rentokil technician to visit and get rid of bedbugs quickly and efficiently

For more information and advice on how to get rid of bedbugs from your home please see below.

What are Bedbugs? 

Bedbugs (or bed bugs) are small, crawling parasitic insects. All species feed on warm blooded animals. Cimex lectularius is the bedbug that feeds on blood from humans, which can result in painful  bites. Adult bedbugs are small (usually 4-5mm long) flat, oval in shape and reddish-brown in colour. They stay close to a food source, so are found in areas where people tend to rest and sleep, hence the name bed bug.

Image of a Bedbug (Cimex lectularius )| Rentokil Pest Control UK

Bedbugs are becoming an increasing problem in this country and around the world. Their resurgence may well be related to a global increase in international travel (bedbugs are known to travel in luggage or clothing), as well as a possible increase in their resistance to certain pesticides. There is also a general lack of awareness of signs that point to an infestation.

Bedbugs spread easily and are complicated to treat, resulting in a rapid growth in the number of outbreaks around the world.

The key to beating the problem is to raise awareness of the signs to look for and to ensure bedbugs are dealt with quickly and effectively by a professional pest controller once discovered.

The Impact of Bedbugs

Image of bed bug on hand | Rentokil Pest Control

While it is theoretically possible for bedbugs to transmit disease, currently there is no documented evidence of this occurring. Instead, the main concern is irritation and distress generated by bedbug bites, along with the possibility of secondary infection from constant scratching.

Bedbug bites themselves do not hurt. It is the itchiness that results from the body’s reaction to these bites that can cause great discomfort.

Treating bed bug bites soothes the irritation, but it can still be very distressing when bites are plentiful, as is often the case.

Multiple bites can also lead to an itchy rash or eczema. Always consult a pharmacist for advice and treatment if this occurs.

Getting rid of Bedbugs

Bedbugs are an objectionable pest and one of the most difficult to eradicate.

High levels of hygiene, deep cleaning and the use of a DIY bedbug spray will help to reduce numbers, however, professional bed bug treatment will be required to eliminate an infestation. Rentokil offer an award winning 'chemical free' heat treatment for bedbugs called Entotherm.

Insectrol, part of Rentokil's range of DIY pest control products, can help get rid of bedbugs in certain areas of the house. However it should not be used directly on clothes, mattresses or bedding. Always read the label and product information before use.

If you are concerned that you may have bedbugs in your home and would like further advice or to arrange a visit from an experienced Rentokil technician, call us free on 0800 218 2210.