Preventing  bedbug infestations

It can be difficult to avoid bedbugs, as they can be transported easily in luggage, clothing and furniture.

Once in your home, they can quickly spread from room to room. They don't jump or fly, but can crawl long distances.

It can help to:

  • inspect your mattress and bed regularly for  signs of an infestation and get professional advice if you think you have bedbugs
  • avoid buying second-hand mattresses and carefully inspect second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home
  • keep your bedroom tidy and remove clutter

Bedbugs aren't attracted to dirt, so they're not a sign of an unclean home, but clearing up any clutter will reduce the number of places they can hide.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018