To ask for reassuring stories about getting rid of bed bugs without too much hassle

[CaragianettE]

Had an encounter with bed bugs at a hotel in autumn and it has really spooked me. I have no choice in my current job but to travel for work, it used to be something I looked forward to. But now I’m really worried about the idea of bringing them back. I’ve read the many many threads on Mumsnet about them being a nightmare to get rid of. Does anyone have any reassuring stories about getting them in the house but getting rid of them without too much hassle (either DIY or an effective pest control visit)? PLEASE don’t reply with negative stories, I already know there are many out there. I’m hoping for at least a few balancing stories where someone got them in the house (though obviously I will try not to) but it wasn’t actually Armageddon.

Hiya ~ I can share a DF's experience. She has a waterbed and unfortunately acquired bed begs after returning from holiday. She initially tried a spray bought from the internet which didn't work so she called in a pest control firm who were excellent. The crucial thing in this case was to empty the water from the mattress and treat the bed frame. The firm said it sometimes needed three treatments but DF's bed was OK after two. DF and her DH moved into their spare room whilst their bed was being dealt with.

Hope this helps

I watched this Mark Rober video and did everything he said. They were in my daughter's bed, and now they have gone. Wasn't cheap though.

Heat/Steam treatments work much better than chemical ones. Single treatment, all gone.

Probably caught them from the London underground. Relevant clothes and bedding washed at 60C, everything fine again within a few days.

The psychosomatic itching lasted longer though.

Thanks so much to everyone who has replied so far. Bumping in case there are any more reassuring stories! It’s really getting me down having to worry about another form of contamination after all the pandemic stuff…

Just a suggestion: since you travel regularly, could you keep a packed travelling suitcase in your garden shed or similar with most of what you need, then strip off on arrival home, clothes straight in hot wash, you in the shower?

They can't get into your home if you don't bring them in!

Eta I read they mostly attach to you and your nightclothes when in bed, or to your suitcase if you place it on infected bed or carpet instead of the luggage rack.

I learned a few years ago that bedbugs can’t fly, so when you are away, a good place to start is to hang everything up away from the floor and soft furnishings.

When you return home from anywhere, always unpack on a hard floor such as kitchen and either wash everything or use temperature extremes - freezer or tumble drier to kill off any travellers.

Fingers crossed for no more episodes.