In a recent article, we explained how to tell whether you need a new bed or just a mattress. One of the most common issues you are likely to come across, especially with older beds, is bed bugs. Some use bedbugs as a reason to replace the bed, but this may not make the problem go away. Bedbugs are not harmful but not completely harmless either.
What Are Bedbugs?
Bedbugs do not carry disease but can be transported from one place to another. Bedbugs have lived a parasitical existence alongside humans for centuries, and are difficult to eradicate once they have colonised a property. They are encouraged by mess; students are not known for their tidiness so leaving clothes strewn all over the place can encourage them. That’s why it’s important for a landlord to remain vigilant. They are more prevalent today due to the transitory nature of our sleeping patterns – more hotel stays (at home and abroad) and more sleepovers between young couples.
What to Do About Bed Bugs
Whether you identify them yourself during the summer deep clean or whether your departing student tenants have reported them, it’s vital to act as soon as possible. Leaving the problem will only make it worse.
Laundry
Unless the students brought their own bedding, this will need a good wash. You should have required them to wash their own bedding while in residence. Nevertheless, it will not harm to wash all of the bedding again just to be on the safe side. At least you’ll know it’s done and at a sufficient temperature.
A Thorough Vacuum Clean
Get into all the cracks, nooks and crannies using a powerful cleaner. Bedbugs can live in carpets. Ensure you cover every inch and remove as much clutter as possible from the floor (should be easy as the property is now vacant). Go under the bed and other furniture for a thorough clean. Also, vacuum upholstered furniture.
Bedbug Spray
You’ll find many supermarkets, pharmacists and suppliers carry bedbug sprays. They work similar to sprays used to remove flea infestations from homes. They should be used on the beds, carpets, and any other upholstered furniture such as armchairs and sofas and especially in the sheltered places where they are more likely to thrive.
Deep Clean
If all else fails or the problem is so deep-rooted you don’t know where to begin, you could try a deep clean which should involve cleaning all furniture with a stiff brush. This will remove the eggs and prevent a repeat performance. Be warned that this could mean dismantling all furniture and scrubbing it clean. If you don’t have the time or inclination, there are specialist pest removal services too.