Bed Bug Removal Services in Westminster

Physical Features of Bed Bugs

• Flat, broad oval body (like a shield) when unfed
• Swollen, elongated body when recently fed
• Six legs with no wings - they cannot fly or jump
• Short, club-shaped antennae with four segments
• Beak-like feeding tube (proboscis) tucked under head
• Small compound eyes on sides of head
• Fine golden hairs covering body (visible under magnification)
• Distinctive sweet, musty almond-like odor when crushed

Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

• Generally silent
• Rare clicking sounds when moving in large groups
• Slight rustling in severe infestations

Droppings: Dark brown to black spots (like ink stains), rusty or reddish stains on bedding, small blood smears

Tracks: Dark fecal spots along mattress seams, sweet musty odor in heavily infested rooms, shed skins (exoskeletons) near hiding spots

Eggs: Tiny white or pearl-colored eggs (about 1mm, size of a grain of salt), often found in clusters in cracks and crevices, sticky coating helps them adhere to surfaces, hatch in 6-10 days at room temperature

Common Bed Bug Hiding Spots

• Mattress seams, tags, and button tufts
• Box spring fabric tears and wooden frame joints
• Bed frame cracks, screw holes, and joints
• Headboard mounting brackets and wall attachments
• Behind baseboards and skirting boards
• Inside electrical outlets and switch plates
• Picture frames and wall hangings near beds
• Nightstand drawers and furniture joints
• Curtain folds and window frames
• Wallpaper peeling edges and cracks
• Clothing stored in closets or on floors
• Upholstered furniture seams and zippers

Our Bed Bug Treatment Methods

We use a combination of professional-grade treatments tailored to your specific infestation:

• Heat Treatment: Thermal chambers raise room temperature to 56°C+, killing all life stages including eggs in 2-4 hours. Chemical-free, no preparation needed, single-visit solution for severe infestations.
• Chemical Spray Treatment: Residual insecticides (pyrethroids, neonicotinoids) applied to all harbourage areas. Kills on contact plus 3-month residual protection. Requires 2-3 follow-up visits over 4-6 weeks.
• Steam Treatment: Superheated dry steam (120°C+) kills bed bugs on contact in cracks, crevices, and fabric. Ideal for mattresses, sofas, and delicate items. Often combined with chemical treatment.
• Powder Dust Application: Silica-based desiccant powders applied to wall voids, electrical outlets, and inaccessible areas. Provides long-term protection (6-12 months) in hidden spaces.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combination approach using multiple methods, monitoring devices, and prevention strategies for long-term control and minimal chemical use.

How to Prepare for Bed Bug Treatment

Proper preparation maximizes treatment effectiveness:

• Before Treatment: Strip all bedding and wash at 60°C+ for 30 minutes. Tumble dry on high heat for 30 minutes. Vacuum all floors, furniture, and mattresses (dispose of vacuum bag immediately in sealed plastic outside).
• Clear the Space: Remove all items from under beds and inside wardrobes. Move furniture 30cm away from walls. Empty drawers and nightstands. Remove or reduce clutter to allow technician access to all harbourage areas.
• Protect Your Items: Seal clean clothing, bedding, and soft items in sealed plastic bags. Don't throw away furniture (this spreads infestation). Remove pets, plants, and fish tanks. Cover or remove food items.
• After Treatment: Stay out for 4-6 hours (chemical treatment) or as advised. Don't vacuum or clean treated surfaces for 2 weeks. Use mattress encasements on all beds. Monitor for 6-8 weeks and report any activity immediately.