Why Do I Have Bed Bugs? My House Is Not Dirty
At Watford Pest Exterminators, we often hear the same concern: “Why do I have bed bugs when my house is spotless?” The truth is, bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene. Anyone can get them, regardless of how clean their home is.
How Bed Bugs Spread
- Travelling – bed bugs hide in luggage and clothing.
- Public transport – they can transfer from one person to another.
- Hotels and rentals – one night’s stay is enough to bring them home.
- Second-hand furniture – they hide inside mattresses, sofas, and chairs.
- Shared housing – bed bugs spread easily through flats and adjoining walls.
Why Clean Homes Still Get Bed Bugs
Bed bugs feed on blood, not dirt. They’re attracted to human warmth and carbon dioxide. This means even the cleanest homes can become infested if a few bugs hitch a ride back with you.
What To Do If You Have Bed Bugs
Don’t feel embarrassed or assume cleanliness will stop the infestation. Professional pest control is the only way to fully eradicate them. Request a free quote today to book a discreet, effective treatment.
FAQs – Why You Have Bed Bugs
Q1: Are bed bugs linked to dirty homes?
No, bed bugs are not caused by dirt or poor hygiene.
Q2: Do bed bugs spread quickly?
Yes, they breed rapidly and can spread throughout a property in weeks.
Q3: Can bed bugs live without feeding?
Yes, they can survive for months without a meal.
Q4: Can pets carry bed bugs?
Bed bugs prefer humans but can travel on pets’ bedding or fur.
Q5: Will washing sheets remove them?
Washing at 60°C will kill some, but it won’t eradicate an infestation.
Q6: Can bed bugs spread to neighbours?
Yes, in flats and terraced houses they can spread through walls and floors.
Q7: Is heat treatment better than chemical?
Heat treatments are highly effective and can kill bed bugs at all life stages instantly.