Are There Bed Bugs in Central London?
Yes, and lots of them! June marks the beginning of London’s peak tourist season, but it’s not just the two-legged visitors arriving. Bed bugs, also known as ‘Genus Cimex’, are parasitic insects that feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals, primarily birds and mammals, but often unsuspecting humans too.
There are two well-known species, Cimex lectularius (the common Bed Bug found in London/UK) and Cimex hemipterus (the tropical Bed bug), which are both known for feeding on humans, but the former is more commonly found in the UK.
Bed Bugs are notorious hitchhikers which spread rapidly through hotels, public transport, Airbnbs and shared accommodation, especially in the summer months.
Why Summer Spikes Bed Bug Cases
Although common all year round due to temperature-controlled buildings, Bed bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide and body heat, which are emitted by humans while they sleep. This makes beds and bedrooms prime locations for infestations.
How Bed Bugs Spread Fast in Summer Months
- Increased Travel: Bed bugs are commonly transported in travellers’ luggage, clothing and bedding.
- High-Turnover Stays: Hotels, hostels and short-term lets rarely have time for deep inspections and become neglected.
- Public Transport Exposure: Trains, buses and tubes can spread bugs citywide.
Signs You May Have Bed Bugs
- Small, bloody-looking stains on sheets or mattresses. This can be the Bed Bug expelling blood and also excretion, which can appear as rusty stains, left behind as they crawl back to the nest.
- Itchy, red bites in clusters on arms and legs
- Musty odour in the bedroom
How to Prevent & Eliminate Bed Bugs
- Wash bedding on high heat regularly
- Use mattress protectors and vacuum often
- Avoid placing luggage on beds or upholstered furniture
- Check the creases & folds of bedding, suitcases and clothing for signs of activity
Through our years of experience dealing with bed bugs, our BPCA-certified technicians offer fast, discreet and effective specialist heat treatments to target infestations at the source. The treatment is fast, non-destructive, and leaves no harmful residues, making it an ideal solution for homes, hotels and heritage sites.
Act Fast with Professional Help
Don’t suffer in silence. Bed Bugs are resistant to many shop-bought treatments and can go months, and in some cases up to a year, without feeding. At Obsidian Environmental, we respect your space (unlike these pests) and use discreet, effective heat and chemical treatments that target all lifecycle stages.
Suspect bed bugs in your home or rental? Contact our Central London Pest Specialists today for an expert inspection and swift treatment.
