As the winter months set in, many Brits are looking for ways to keep themselves warm — but many may not know their electric blanket could be signalling something worse in bed
Chilly Brits keeping cosy in their electric blankets are sparking a surge in bed bugs. Pest experts have warned that the combination of heated bedding and cosy indoor environments is creating ideal conditions for the pests to thrive.
It comes after the number of people reporting signs of bites and itching to pest controllers. James Rhoades, from heat treatment specialists, ThermoPest, is urging homeowners to stay vigilant and take simple steps to prevent a potential infestation from taking hold.
He said: “Bed bugs are drawn to warmth and carbon dioxide — often more present in warmer, less ventilated homes – as both signal ideal conditions that help them reproduce and survive. During colder spells, bed bugs slow down and often slip into a semi-dormant state.
“But once the temperature rises, thanks to a heated room or warm bedding, they begin feeding again. Warmer surroundings also speeds up their metabolism, helping them lay eggs faster and move around more frequently.
“This increased activity makes them easier to notice,” he continued. “Items like electric blankets and hot water bottles can create just the right conditions for bed bugs to emerge, and you might spot them crawling across seams or leaving visible signs behind.
“Other items such as heated throws, mattress pads, duvets, and pillows can provide cosy creases and folds where bed bugs may hide if an infestation is already in the home.” He added: “If you do have a bed bug infestation, professional heat treatments are a safe, chemical-free way to eradicate bed bugs without introducing toxins and chemicals into your home.
“Unlike chemical treatments, which can sometimes miss hidden pests, or even develop immunity with bedbugs, heat penetrates deep into fabrics and fibres, destroying the unwanted pests quickly. By understanding how warmth affects bed bugs and knowing the signs to look out for, we can continue to enjoy the comfort of winter bedding while staying alert to any hidden issues.”
Bed bugs are already causing havoc across the UK after a new breed of bed bugs has infiltrated the country. The insects are able to suck on victim’s blood whilst they are sleeping and, once discovered, cannot be killed either.
As generations of the disgusting creatures continue to spread, it appears they are becoming more and more resilient against pesticides, meaning they cannot be killed by simple chemical treatment. Rhoades explained that despite their best efforts, some insects are managing to power through.
“We’re finding that bed bugs are becoming resistant to even professional-grade insecticides,” he explained. “The ones that survive are the hardiest, and when they breed, they pass on that resilience to the next generation.
“Over time, this cycle creates a population of bed bugs that are significantly less affected by insecticides than before. It’s a gradual process, but once resistance builds up; Chemicals are no longer a reliable solution.”
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