March is synonymous with spring in the collective consciousness. However, the temperatures are still quite wintry and our homes are still a popular shelter for many pests. As linen specialists, we have taken an interest in bed bugs and in this article we share with you some natural tips that will be useful in the event of an infestation.

How do you know if you have bed bugs ?

Adult bed bugs are visible to the naked eye, unlike mites. They have a brown or dark red colour when they are bloody. They do not fly or jump. They are not necessarily found in unhygienic homes or in unclean environments. They are only attracted to humans, whose blood feeds them.

What attracts bedbugs ?

Bed bugs are attracted to heat, human odours and breath, and vibrations. They use the night to feed on our blood. They are usually concentrated in the bedroom, especially on mattresses, but can be found in all textiles in contact with humans.

How to get rid of bedbugs ?

Bed bugs are not heat resistant above 60°C. Wash all your textiles: bed linen, cushion covers, carpets at the foot of the bed, lint, etc. Use steam cleaner (between 110 and 180°C) to wash surfaces that cannot be washed in a washing machine: fabric headboards, large floor mats, carpets, curtains, etc. If you have an outdoor area, pour boiling water over the mattress and leave it to dry for a few days. This will remove any galleries and eggs laid.
Conversely, exposure to -20°C or colder for 5 consecutive days will eliminate bed bugs. For extreme cases and if you find yourself overwhelmed by the situation, the French government has set up a special number to call : 0806 706 806 (local call rate).

Our tips for preventing an infestation :

These preventive methods are effective and natural. However, they are not a guarantee that you will not be infested with bed bugs. Any warm home is a potential target for a bed bug seeking insulation from the cold. Outside of the pest season, you can find all our linen care tips here.