Getting rid of Bedbugs

Eliminate Bedbugs - Home Call Out Service

Our Bedbugs 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 getting rid of bedbugs from your home please see below.

What are Bedbugs? 

Bedbugs (or bed bugs) are small, crawling parasitic insects. All bedbug species feed on warm blooded animals. Cimex lectularius is the bedbug that feeds on blood from humans, resulting in painful bed bug bites. The 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

They are becoming an increasing problem in this country and around the world. The current resurgence in bedbugs may well be related to the increase in international travel, with bedbugs traveling in peoples luggage or clothing and what seems to be a possible increase in the bedbugs resistance to certain pesticides. There is also a general lack of awareness of what signs to look for with bedbugs.

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 this bedbug problem is to raise awareness of what signs to look for and to ensure bedbugs are dealt with quickly and effectively once discovered, by a professional pest controller.

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 the irritation and distress that is generated from bites caused by bedbugs. Along with the possibility of secondary infection from constant scratching of the bed bug bites.

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

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

Multiple bites and contact with bedbugs 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 bed bug spray will help to reduce bedbug 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 control 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.