The first 24 hours
Once the property has cooled, ventilate by opening windows for 30 minutes. Vacuum harbourage points (mattress seams, headboard joints, skirting board edges) and empty the vacuum into an outdoor bin. Sleep in your own bed — there is no risk and we want you to confirm comfort the same night. You may still see one or two dead or dying bugs in the open over 24-48 hours; that's the residual barrier finishing its job.
The first two weeks
Do not move furniture between rooms, do not introduce second-hand items, and leave the residual barrier on skirting boards and door frames undisturbed (don't mop them). Place a mattress encasement on the mattress and box spring — bite-proof, washable, and your single best defence against re-infestation. Keep an interceptor cup under each bed leg for two weeks. If a cup catches anything, photograph it and message us; we re-treat under guarantee.
Long-term prevention
Inspect any second-hand mattress, sofa or upholstered chair before bringing it indoors. After hotel stays, unpack luggage outside or in a bath (smooth porcelain bed bugs can't climb), and wash travel clothes at 60°C on arrival. Vacuum behind the headboard once a month. None of this is paranoid — it's the same routine professional landlords and hoteliers run as standard.
If you think they're back
Don't wait. Photograph what you've seen and call us. Most callbacks turn out to be carpet beetles, biscuit beetles or skin reactions to old bites finally surfacing — none of which need a re-treat. The 6-month guarantee means we'll come and check at no cost regardless.
FAQs
Can I wash my bedding straight away?
Yes. A normal 60°C wash is plenty.
How long before I should stop worrying?
Most customers stop checking interceptor cups after two weeks. If you've seen nothing by week four, the infestation is gone.
Got a worry? Call 0204 569 0701 — under-guarantee inspections are free.
0204 569 0701