'Red flag' signs that could mean you have bed bugs

An expert has issued a warning urging people to watch out for a "tell-tale" sign of a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs are tiny, wingless insects that feed on human blood and are usually found near beds to remain close to their food supply. The British Association of Dermatologists confirms that cleanliness won't deter these pests - they're simply seeking a meal. Norman Smith, who operates Invicta Environmental, a pest control company, recommends staying alert for an unexpected almond-like odour, which could signal the presence of bed bugs. This distinctive smell is created when the insects release pheromones after gathering in substantial numbers, and it's frequently missed by those unfamiliar with its importance, causing them to blame the scent on other problems such as dampness, reports the Daily Record . Smith said: "When bedbugs have established themselves in large numbers, they release pheromones that create a musty, sweet almond smell. Many people don't connect this smell with bedbugs and might search for other causes like damp." He also emphasised the creatures' talent for hiding, making them particularly difficult to spot. Smith added: "Most people think they'll easily see bedbugs crawling around, but they're incredibly sneaky insects. Their flat bodies allow them to hide in the tiniest cracks and seams of mattresses, bed frames, and furniture." Smith warned that the minuscule creatures have mastered evasive strategies, only surfacing to feed while humans are in deep sleep and less likely to notice them. He said: "Bedbugs typically feed for two to five minutes before retreating back to their hiding places. This usually happens between 2am and 5am when people are in their deepest sleep stage." The bedroom specialist also highlighted another tell-tale sign - rust-coloured marks on bedding and mattresses, which are frequently misidentified. He explained: "People often mistake these small brownish stains for dirt or other marks, but they're actually bedbug droppings. "The dark brown or rust-coloured spots can stain bed linen and mattresses, and are a major red flag that bedbugs have moved in." He continued that discovering blood marks on bedding is another key warning sign. He said: "After feeding, bedbugs can leave small blood spots behind. These aren't usually from the bite itself, but from the bedbug being squashed if you roll over in your sleep." A distinctive bite arrangement can also help confirm a bedbug infestation. Smith observed: "If you notice bites in a straight line or clustered in a small area, this could be bedbugs. "It's sometimes called the 'breakfast, lunch, and dinner' pattern because if a bedbug gets disturbed while feeding, it will move a short distance and try again." The specialist stressed the immediate action needed when tackling bedbug problems, explaining: "Bedbugs reproduce extremely rapidly - a female can lay approximately 200 eggs in just five days. This means a small problem can quickly become a major infestation if not addressed immediately." For those worried about bedbugs, Smith advised: "Strip the bed completely and check all seams and piping of the mattress. Don't forget to inspect the bed frame, particularly in corners and joints. Bedbugs can hide in the smallest cracks - as thin as a credit card." To handle a confirmed outbreak, Smith highlighted the importance of high-temperature washing, recommending: "Wash all bedding and clothing at 60C if possible, as this temperature kills bedbugs and their eggs. Follow this with a hot tumble dry for at least 30 minutes." The British Association of Dermatologists backs this approach, confirming that heat-based treatments, such as washing at high temperatures (60C) or tumble drying for a minimum of 30 minutes, can prove effective in eradicating bedbugs and their eggs.