Customers often ask us how bed bugs spread. Answering this question is critical if you want to fight bed bugs. You see, contrary to popular belief, these bugs are not only picked up from holiday accommodation. No, it’s possible to pick them up simply by going out in public. If you’re wondering how that happens, then here’s a simple explanation.

Why bed bugs spread so easily in social areas

The majority of people pick bed bugs up from places like hotels, backpacker hostels, air BnB and so on. But the thing is that bed bugs breed rapidly. When people bring back bed bugs from holiday, they don’t necessarily realise straight away.

Back home from holiday, the bed bugs usually start to multiply in the bedroom. However, bedrooms are also home to clothing, wallets, handbags, and other items. Bed bugs infest these household items and will often crawl onto these items and then get transported into the outside world. When this happens, bed bugs can get deposited in public areas.

How do you avoid picking up these bed bugs?

First of all, the main place to watch out for is public transport. People spend time sitting on things like trains and buses or in London taxis. This gives bed bugs time to crawl off clothing and onto seats. If you’re the next person to sit on that seat, the bugs may crawl into your own clothing.

These insects are also found in other places where people sit for long periods. For example, bed bugs spread in areas like pubs, restaurants, cinemas, hairdressers, and even libraries. Also, remember that it’s possible to pick up an infestation when visiting friends and family.

On top of all this, be aware that bed bugs are found in nature as well. They are not only confined to urban environments! It’s more than possible to find these bugs in forests, fields, beaches and parks.

Now you know which places you can catch bed bugs from, remaining vigilant is important. The first step is reminding yourself that bed bugs are found in public spaces. The second step is to make sure to check your clothing, hand luggage and other personal items for signs of these insects when you return home having used public seating areas for a prolonged length of time. Use a torch and carefully inspect every crease, seam and pocket. Something else you can do is throw clothing directly into the washing machine. This way, any bed bugs you’ve picked up are guaranteed to be killed. Of course, you will need to get professional London bed bug control if if you do end up with a bed bug infestation in your home.