A WARNING has been issued to Brits over a bed bug explosion in the UK – these are the five signs they have invaded your home.
The disgusting creatures can hide in many places around the home including bed frames, mattresses, furniture, clothing, behind pictures and under loose bits of wallpaper.
Cases have risen recently by 65 per cent year-on year as more and more households fall victim to the creepy crawlies.
They are also thought to be becoming resistant to insecticides and pest control experts may need several visits to a property as treatments do not always work first time.
So the best thing to do is catch them early and prevent them from spreading.
And there are five tell-tale signs that you could have an infestation.
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Experts also warned that a shopping habit could increase your chances of having bedbugs.
Professor James Logan at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine said that people buying furniture from sites such as Facebook Marketplace and eBay could be contributing.
Nic Shacklock told The Sun the five things to look out for are:
1. Blood on the sheets
When the bugs get squashed they release a lot of blood.
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"This is especially around the seams of mattresses – which is where they tend to hide," Nic said.
These spots can start to look a rusty colour the longer they have been there.
"Ensure both sides of the mattress are free from any blood stains before hitting the hay," he added.
2. Dark spots on walls
Although this is slightly less common, bed bugs can also leave stains on walls too.
"If you do notice any dark spots this could be bed bug excrement," Nic explained.
"Make sure not to touch any of the affected areas and notify the hotel or apartment staff straight away," he added.
3. Bug shell and eggs
Much like many other creatures, bed bugs shed their skin and lay eggs.
"When trying to identify a shell you should look for small, husk-like specks that may crunch if squashed," Nic said.
They are often found amongst fabric, so make sure to check mattresses, headboards, sofas and any other upholstery.
Eggs can be a little harder to spot, but can also be found in furniture.
From far away, they could look like a bunches of small white spots.
Nic said: "They are about 1mm wide and are often a pale yellow colour.
"If you do find any of these eggs, it could mean the bed bugs are still very much alive and this should be reported immediately."
4. Worn or aged upholstery
Old fabrics that may not have been cleaned thoroughly and could be second hand can often home families of bed bugs.
"If the place you’re staying is of a slightly older nature or a boutique style, it’s always best to double-check the fabric and furnishings before settling in," he warned.
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5. Bites
If you can't find any obvious signs of the critters in the hotel room, you might notice some spots on your body in the morning which could be a good indicator the bugs are lurking between the sheets.
"The bites will often form a straight line across a part of your body, this is a hallmark bed bug trait," Nic said.
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