Bed Bug Infestations on the Rise in Somerset – Prevention & Treatment
Why Bed Bug Infestations Are Increasing in Somerset
Bed bugs are incredibly resilient insects that feed on human blood, often at night while their hosts sleep. Increased travel, higher population density, and a preference for environmentally friendly pest control methods (which can make chemical resistance more common) have all contributed to a rise in bed bug cases across Somerset. Towns like Taunton, Yeovil, and Wells have seen an uptick in reports from hotels, B&Bs, and residential homes alike.
Even the cleanest homes can fall victim to bed bugs. These tiny pests hitchhike on clothing, luggage, and furniture, easily spreading from one location to another. Once they’ve settled into a mattress, sofa, or carpet, they’re incredibly difficult to remove without professional help.
Common Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
Bed bugs are expert hiders, but there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for. You may notice:
- Small red bites on your arms, legs, or torso, often in a straight line or cluster.
- Tiny black or dark brown spots on bed sheets — this is bed bug excrement.
- Blood smears or stains on bedding or mattresses.
- A musty, sweet odour, especially near the headboard or skirting boards.
- Visible live insects — although bed bugs are only about the size of an apple seed, they can sometimes be seen moving across bedding or walls at night.
If you’ve spotted any of these signs, it’s essential to act quickly. Bed bugs reproduce rapidly, and a small infestation can become a major problem in a matter of weeks.
How South West Pest Fumigation Treats Bed Bugs
At South West Pest Fumigation, we specialise in safe, effective, and discreet bed bug removal throughout Somerset. When you contact us, we’ll start with a thorough inspection of your property to confirm the extent of the infestation. Once identified, our trained technician, Martin — fully qualified to RSPH Level 2 standards — will create a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your property’s needs.
Our bed bug treatments often include a combination of professional-grade insecticides, fumigation, and heat treatments to ensure that both adult insects and eggs are completely eradicated. We also provide follow-up visits to ensure the infestation is fully cleared and offer preventative advice to help stop them from returning.
Prevention Tips for Homeowners and Businesses
While bed bugs are notoriously difficult to prevent completely, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your risk of infestation:
- Inspect second-hand furniture carefully before bringing it into your home.
- Wash and dry bedding, curtains, and clothing regularly at high temperatures.
- Vacuum floors, mattresses, and upholstery thoroughly and frequently.
- Seal cracks and crevices around skirting boards, headboards, and bed frames where bed bugs may hide.
- Use protective mattress and pillow covers to create a barrier against bed bugs.
For businesses such as hotels, B&Bs, and student accommodation in Somerset, regular inspections are vital. Early detection can prevent larger infestations, saving time, money, and reputation damage.
Why Choose South West Pest Fumigation?
Our local experience sets us apart. Based in Somerset, we understand the specific pest control challenges faced by residents and businesses in the region. We offer fast response times, competitive pricing, and discreet service — with unmarked vehicles available for sensitive situations. Each treatment is carefully planned to ensure safety for your family, pets, and property.
We serve all major Somerset towns, including Wells, Glastonbury, Taunton, Yeovil, Bridgwater, Weston-super-Mare, and the surrounding villages. Wherever you are in the South West, you can rely on us for professional pest control and fumigation services that get results.
Contact Us for Professional Bed Bug Treatment
If you suspect you have a bed bug infestation, don’t wait for it to worsen. These pests multiply rapidly, and DIY solutions rarely provide lasting relief. Let the experts handle it — contact South West Pest Fumigation today for a fast, effective, and discreet solution.
We’re available for both domestic and commercial clients across Somerset. Call us today or fill out our contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation quote.
