Local pest controller shares his 3 top tips on how to get rid of bed bugs

Bedbugs are one of the most difficult pests to get rid of. They are small, elusive and can live for months without feeding. They also multiply quickly, so if you have bedbugs you need to act, and fast.

When it comes to bed bugs, there's no one better to ask than local pest control expert Warren Smyth from Smyth Pest Control. If you have bedbugs, here are his three top tips on how to get rid of these pesky insects:

1. Identify bedbugs' hiding spots. Look for smears of blood on your bedsheets or small brownish- red bugs crawling on your mattress. Bedbugs like to hide in cracks and crevices, so take a close look around your bed, furniture, and floorboards for any gaps where they could be hiding. Once you've found them, seal up the cracks with tape or caulk to prevent them from coming back.

Another important thing to identify is where the bedbugs have come from – have you recently bought a second-hand item of furniture or clothing? If so, bedbugs could be lurking inside. Inspect any items carefully before bringing them into your home.

2. Wash everything that you can in hot water – bedbugs can't withstand high temperatures, so washing your bedding and clothing in hot water will kill them and hopefully remove any blood stains from your bedsheets.

If you can't fit it in your washing machine, vacuum it. This will help to remove any bedbugs that may be lurking in your furniture. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag afterwards to prevent the bedbugs from crawling back out and infesting your home again.

3. Use insecticide sprays – These can be effective at killing bedbugs and their eggs. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and only use products that are safe for use around children and pets, or you could run the risk of causing more harm than good.

A pest controller will always have access to the most effective solutions, and it's highly recommended that you seek professional help to get rid of bedbugs once and for all.

Bonus tip: The easiest way to tell the difference between the cowboys and the experts is by looking for a member of the British Pest Control Association. All members of the BPCA have to adhere to a strict code of conduct and are fully insured.

If you think you may have bedbugs, act fast and follow these tips from Warren to get rid of them for good. Bedbugs multiply like rabbits, and the sooner you start to treat the problem, the easier it will be to get rid of them.

If you need any help or advice, contact a local pest control expert who will be happy to help you out.