A pest expert has revealed an ingenious tip for keeping holidaymakers’ clothes free of bed bugs, amid fears the UK could be hit with another invasion of the parasitic insects.
Pest-busting specialists Rentokil say they’ve seen a 117-percent increase in enquiries about the blood-sucking creatures, and are warning the millions heading abroad this summer to take steps to avoid picking up an infestation.
Paul Blackhurst, head of technical academy at Rentokil Pest Control says, packing clothes in plastic bags can add “an extra line of defence” while travelling.
He advised: “Pack your belongings in sealed plastic bags to add an extra layer of protection, making it more challenging for bed bugs to access and infest your items.
“When selecting plastic bags for packing, opt for sturdy, resealable bags that are specifically designed for travel or storage purposes.
“These bags should be durable enough to withstand the rigours of travel while maintaining a tight seal to keep bed bugs out.”
He also recommended packing items in separate bags or compartments “to minimise the risk of cross-contamination in case bed bugs are inadvertently introduced.”
Blackhurst also advised travellers to check out hotel reviews to make sure there haven’t been complaints over bed bug infestations.
It comes after experts sounded the alarm over a potential bedbug epidemic in the UK, with infestations already on the rise across the Channel.
The upcoming Paris Olympics is expected to exacerbate the situation as millions flock to the city, which saw a surge in infestations last year.
James Logan, CEO of Arctech Innovation, warned in an interview with the i newspaper: “This year is the Olympics in Paris. Big events like that mean people are travelling more than normal, so we might see more transportation of bedbugs.
“There is also likely to be a continued increase in infestations in the UK this summer”, he added.
The bugs are known to hide in luggage, clothing, and other personal belongings, reproducing rapidly to spread into other areas of the home.
Experts attribute the increase in cases to increased global travel and rising temperatures due to climate change, which aid in the breeding and spread of bedbugs.