Mistakes you could be making that are attracting vile bed bugs in your home

You might be unwittingly rolling out the red carpet for in your home.

The creepy-crawlies became a hot topic of conversation last year when , trains, and across .

These pests are tough nuts to crack, being resistant to pesticides, and once they settle in, they're notoriously difficult to evict. Experts warn that certain common blunders could be inadvertently inviting them into our homes.

READ MORE:

If you find yourself with a bed bug situation, it might seem logical to switch up your sleeping quarters to avoid further bites. However, this can actually help the bugs spread throughout your property or even hitch a ride to someone else's place – definitely not what you want.

suggests that if you suspect bed bugs, start by decluttering. They advise "cleaning and throwing away unnecessary items" to "reduce the spaces for bed bugs to hide."

Also, keeping the area under your bed clear is crucial. These measures will make it much easier for pest control professionals to do their job effectively. "Place items you wish to discard in a garbage bag, tie it off, and promptly remove it from the home", they recommend.

Experts at Smithereen have issued a stark warning about the risks of bringing second-hand furniture, clothing, or electronics into your home due to the threat of bed bugs. They cautioned: "While bargains on used goods are tempting, you never know if the original owner had a bed bug problem of their own."

The specialists also emphasised the importance of washing any bedding or clothing affected by bed bugs and advised that after washing, items should be placed in the dryer on the "hottest possible setting."

And for those who suspect an infestation and can't tackle it alone, they recommend seeking professional pest services to ensure your home becomes bug-free.