As you have no doubt noticed, cases of bed bug infestation are on the increase, both in our homes and in public places. With the explosion in travel, global warming and a lack of knowledge about the subject, these little blood-sucking insects have found ideal conditions for spreading. The fight against this public health problem is being organised, starting with a thorough understanding of the biology and behaviour of bed bugs. Biological characteristics, lifestyle, reproduction: here is everything you need to know about Cimex lectularius. The aim is to understand them better in order to eliminate them more effectively.

The biological characteristics of bed bugs

These tiny but formidable insects have biological characteristics that explain their ability to adapt and proliferate in our homes.

According to an ANSES report, between 2017 and 2022, 11% of households in France were contaminated by bed bugs (source).

Cimex lectularius: the most common species in France

In France, the most common species of bed bugs is ‘Cimex lectularius’. For your information, there are two species on earth: ‘Cimex lectularius’ and ‘Cimex hemipterus’, which are part of the ‘Cimicinae’ subfamily.

Its main characteristics:

• Biting-sucking insect: it feeds solely on human blood to survive and develop.
• Oval, flattened body: handy for slipping into the smallest cracks, mattress seams, furniture or skirting boards.
• Adult size: apple seed.
• Nocturnal activity: bedbugs avoid light and mainly come out at night, when their host is still and asleep.
• Incapable of jumping or flying: unlike other pests, they only move by walking.
• Life expectancy: 6 to 12 months.

There are a few natural predators such as the common swift.

An insect that feeds exclusively on human blood

At each stage of its life, bed bugs need to feed on blood in order to survive.

What you need to know about their diet:

• Bed bugs must feed on blood before each moult.
• Average duration of a meal: 10 minutes.
• Time between 2 meals: 5 to 15 days.
• Both males and females bite.
• They are attracted to the CO₂ given off by our breathing and to our body odours, not directly to blood.

Good to know: Their saliva contains an anticoagulant that liquefies the blood and facilitates the meal. It also contains histamine, which is responsible for local inflammation and therefore for the appearance of the famous red spots.

Can they bite animals?

Even though Cimex lectularius clearly prefers humans, some related species can also bite bats or birds. But in a domestic environment, bed bugs feed almost exclusively on human blood.

➡️ To find out more: What you need to know about bed bugs and pets

Life cycle of bed bugs: from eggs to adults

Like all insects, bed bugs have a life cycle consisting of several stages, from tiny eggs to adults capable of reproducing.

Temperature plays a key role in the development of bed bugs. The warmer it is, the faster they develop. Conversely, low temperatures greatly slow their growth.

Key points to remember about the life cycle of bed bugs

➡️ Each adult female lays an average of 3 to 5 eggs per day.

➡️ A bed bug goes through 5 immature stages called nymphs (falsely referred to as larvae of bed bugs).

➡️ With each moult, a blood meal is essential to move on to the next stage.

➡️ The eggs are extremely resistant to conventional insecticides because of their waxy shell.

➡️ Temperatures strongly influence the speed of development:

• At 28°C: a complete cycle (egg → adult) lasts 45 days.
• At 18°C: the cycle is slowed to around 100 days.
• At 13°C: the evolution can take up to 5 months.

Lifestyle of bed bugs

Discreet, tenacious and perfectly adapted to the human environment, bed bugs develop very specific behaviours to survive and multiply.

Insects that live exclusively alongside humans

Cimex lectularius is a parasitic insect strictly linked to humans: it does not naturally live outside (except in exceptional conditions). It seeks out the proximity of a human host in order to feed on blood (it is a haematophagous insect at all stages of its life).

They are essentially nocturnal: they flee from light and mainly come out at night, when the host is immobile. When a population becomes too large, they can sometimes be seen during the day.

Where do bed bugs hide?

Their objective: to stay as close as possible to their food source (humans), in dark, narrow and difficult to access places.

They are mainly found:

• In clothing, curtains, bags or luggage in the event of an advanced infestation.
• In the seams of mattresses and box springs.
• Behind skirting boards, cracks in walls or furniture.
• Under bed slats, in the gaps of furniture.
• Behind headboards, frames, pictures or electrical sockets.

How do bed bugs move?

A bed bug moves quickly when walking. It does not fly or jump.

These insects can migrate from room to room through cracks, ducts, sockets or furniture.

In a building, they will move from floor to floor through pipes, electrical ducts, air conditioning systems, etc. They can also attach themselves to the clothes and other fabrics of the occupants.

Also beware of the presence of bed bugs in hotels or Airbnb accommodation.

How do they communicate?

Bed bugs use aggregation pheromones to group together in hiding places.

They are also guided by:

• The CO₂ released by human respiration.
• Body heat.

Reproduction of bed bugs

The reproductive capacity of bed bugs is one of the main reasons for their rapid proliferation. The cycle is short, there are numerous egg-laying episodes and the eggs are particularly resistant.

These eggs are tiny (1 mm), white and covered with a waxy layer that makes them very difficult to remove or kill with conventional insecticides.

A specific behaviour: traumatic insemination

Bed bugs mate in a particular way. The male directly pierces the female’s abdomen to inject his sperm. This is known as traumatic insemination. This method of reproduction is extremely aggressive for the female, which explains why some of them leave the nest to form satellite colonies in other areas of the home. For information, in a population of bed bugs, there are approximately 60% males and 40% females.

Satellite colonies: behaviour that causes massive infestations

When an infestation becomes significant, the females flee areas that are too crowded or too exposed to the males. They hide in other quieter places (distant furniture, other rooms, clothes, bags, etc.).

This is how the infestation gradually spreads throughout an entire apartment, building or even a hotel.

Effective treatment measures

When faced with an infestation of bed bugs, a partial or approximate treatment is often doomed to failure. To get rid of these insects for good, it is essential to combine several complementary techniques, following a rigorous protocol.

Thermal treatments: steam and cold

Extreme heat and cold are the only truly effective methods against all stages of development, including eggs.

Heat treatment

Use a dry steam cleaner (minimum 120°C). Direct contact with steam instantly kills bed bugs, larvae and eggs.

Important: steam is effective up to a maximum distance of 5 cm. Beyond that, it loses its lethal power.

Cold treatment

Place contaminated objects in the freezer at -20°C for at least 72 hours. Warning: freezing for 24 hours is not enough. Bugs can survive at -20°C if the time is too short. This type of treatment eliminates bed bugs, their larvae and their eggs.

Diatomaceous earth: a natural and long-lasting treatment

Diatomaceous earth is a mineral powder that acts by mechanical means. It kills and dries out bed bugs in 4 to 5 days.

It is particularly useful for areas that are difficult to access: behind skirting boards, in electrical sockets (only in sachets), under furniture, etc.

Good to know: clay from Somme is effective in killing bed bugs.

Vacuuming: an essential daily task

Vacuum thoroughly:

• Seams of mattresses and box springs
• Cracks in furniture and baseboards
• Dark corners where bed bugs like to hide

Then dispose of the contents in an airtight bag outside.

➡️ To find out more: The complete protocol for bed bug treatment.

FAQ

Have you noticed small translucent or whitish larvae in your home? If they are bed bug larvae, sound the alarm! They indicate that an infestation is underway. How can you identify this type of larva? What are the best practices and effective treatments? Here is all the advice from Sereni-d.

How can I recognise bed bug larvae?

Bed bug larvae are the first visible sign of an infestation. Unlike adults, they are more difficult to spot because of their tiny size. 

Size and appearance of the larvae/nymphs

• Small size: Approximately 1 mm at hatching and up to 4 mm before they moult into the adult stage.
• Oval and elongated shape.
• Translucent colour, which becomes darker after their first blood meal.
• Soft and fragile body, unlike adults, which have a more rigid shell.

Difference with other insects

Bed bug larvae are sometimes confused with other pests.

Here are a few tips to help you avoid mistakes:

Life cycle of bed bugs: difference between larvae, nymphs and adults

Understanding the different stages of the life cycle of bed bugs allows you to react effectively. The ‘Cimex lectularius’ goes through several stages of development: eggs, five immature stages (nymphs) and then adult.

1. Bed bug eggs

• Size: Approximately 1 mm when hatched, almost invisible to the naked eye.
• Colour: Whitish, translucent, making them difficult to spot.
• Appearance: Resemble a grain of sticky rice.

They are mainly found in mattress seams, furniture cracks, behind skirting boards and in dark places.

A female can lay up to 5 eggs per day and around 500 in her lifetime.

2. Bed bug nymphs

As soon as the egg hatches, it becomes a nymph. This is the stage of immature development or ‘juvenile stage’, which takes place in 5 phases. It is from the immature stage that the bed bug needs to feed on blood to gradually progress to its adult phase.

• Size: 1.5 mm to 4 mm, growing progressively after each meal.
• Colour: Darker than the larvae, becoming light brown as they develop.
• Appearance: Resemble the adult, with the same number of legs and the same shape.

They moult five times before reaching adulthood, requiring a blood meal at each moult:

• 1st nymph stage (1.5 mm)
• 2nd nymph stage (2 mm)
• 3rd nymph stage (2.5 mm)
• 4th nymph stage (3 mm)
• 5th nymph stage (4.5 mm)

The term ‘bed bug larva’ is a linguistic flaw. A larva is used for insects in which the immature stage does not resemble the adult (such as butterflies). For bed bugs, we speak of ‘nymphs’, because the immature stages resemble the adult form.

3. Adult bed bugs

• Size: Approximately 5 to 7 mm, visible to the naked eye.
• Colour: Reddish brown and darker than nymphs.
• Appearance: Oval and flattened when hungry, but can swell after a meal.
• Reproduction: An adult female lays up to 5 eggs a day and more than 500 in her lifetime, accelerating proliferation in a few weeks.

How quickly can an infestation develop?

The higher the temperature, the faster the bugs develop.

• At 28°C, a larva becomes an adult in 45 days.
• At 18°C, the cycle lasts about 100 days.
• At 13°C, it takes almost 5 months to reach the adult stage.

Where do we find the larvae of bed bugs?

The larvae of bed bugs remain discreet and hidden in dark and difficult to access places. Unlike adults, they do not travel far and remain close to their main food source: humans.

1. Bedding

• Seams and folds in mattresses: larvae like to lodge in the nooks and crannies of mattresses and box springs.
• Gaps in box springs: they hide under the slats or in the cracks in the wood.
• Pillows and sheets: they sometimes leave traces of blood and black excrement visible on the bed linen.
• Headboards and bed frames: they find refuge in the cracks of the wood or behind the padded structures.

2. Furniture and objects near the bed

• Bedside tables and chests of drawers: larvae infiltrate the drawers or under the furniture.
• Sofas and armchairs: they lodge in the seams and under the cushions.
• Curtains and carpets: they like thick fabrics where they can hide.
• Electrical sockets and cracks in walls: the larvae can also infiltrate dark and inaccessible corners.

3. Clothing and luggage

• Bed linen and clothes: they can cling to fabrics and move with them.
• Luggage and travel bags: a frequent source of contamination after a stay in a hotel infested with bed bugs.

Other signs of infestation

In addition to the larvae, there are several signs that may confirm the presence of bed bugs in your home:

• Traces of bites: red bumps grouped in a line or cluster, often on the arms, legs and back.
• Black spots on the mattress and sheets: these are excrement left by the bedbugs.
• Presence of exuviae: the transparent moults of nymphs are often visible near hiding places.
• Unusual odour: an advanced infestation can give off a sweet or musty odour.

➡️ To find out more, you can consult the different levels of infestation established by the INELP. In addition, canine detection is very effective in detecting bed bugs.

How to kill bed bug larvae?

If you spot bed bug larvae in your home, you must act immediately to prevent them from becoming adults and reproducing. We recommend that you combine the following methods:

Mechanical and preventive treatments

• Vacuum clean: Pay particular attention to cracks in furniture, mattress seams, bed bases and dark corners. Dispose of the bag immediately or empty the bin into a sealed bag, which you should then place in an outside bin.
• Wash infested laundry: All exposed textiles (sheets, clothes, curtains) should be machine washed at 60°C, then tumble dried on high.
• Use a steam cleaner: Dry steam at 120°C kills larvae, nymphs and eggs instantly, especially in mattresses, box springs and wall cracks. Steam works up to 5 cm away, beyond that it is not effective.

➡️ See also: Bed bug traps.

Chemical treatments and insecticides

The diatomaceous earth SERENID: This natural product has a cutting action that dries out larvae and adults in 4 to 5 days. Apply it in corners, along baseboards and behind electrical outlets.

Thermal treatments

• Cold treatment: Place infested textiles and small objects in the freezer at -20°C for at least 72 hours to kill the larvae and eggs.

➡️ To go further: The complete protocol against bed bugs.

How can I avoid another infestation?

The best solution against bedbugs is prevention.

Here are some good practices:

• Avoid buying second-hand furniture without disinfecting it.
• Check your bedding regularly (seams, bed base, mattress).
• Apply diatomaceous earth behind electrical sockets, under the bed and along skirting boards.
• When travelling, store your suitcase high up.

➡️ Find out all the information about bed bugs in an Airbnb.

FAQ

Bed bugs feed on human blood, but can they also bite our pets? Should dogs and cats be afraid of these pests? What are the right steps to take? Serenid answers all your questions on the subject. Let’s go.

⚠️ Important: This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.

Can bed bugs attack animals?

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) feed mainly on human blood.

It is difficult for a bed bug to move through the hair of our domestic companions (the same goes for humans, bites do not occur in the hair). Moreover, bed bugs wait for the host to be still to feed, which is more complicated with animals that move much more.

➡️ Read also: The causes of bed bug infestation

Bed bugs in dogs

Bed bugs do not settle directly on a dog’s coat like fleas or ticks would. However, if they do not have access to a human host, they can bite a dog, especially in bald areas such as the stomach, the inside of the legs or the ears.

What to do?

• Clean its environment: Wash its blankets, cushions, baskets, toys and any other fabric items at 60°C to eliminate bedbugs and their eggs.
• Vacuum thoroughly: Vacuum its basket, carpets and areas where it usually sleeps. Immediately dispose of the vacuum cleaner bag in an airtight bin.
• Treat bites: Wash the bitten area with lukewarm water and mild soap. Apply a soothing cream or a suitable veterinary product, as advised by your vet.
• Protect your dog: During anti-bedbug treatments in your home, keep your pet away to avoid any exposure to chemicals or hazardous residues.

Bed bugs in cats

As with dogs, cats can also be bitten by bed bugs, although this is rare. Thanks to their dense fur, bed bugs find it more difficult to reach their skin. They therefore target less hairy areas such as:

• The inside of the legs
• The abdomen
• EarsBed bugs in cats

What to do?

• Wash its environment: Machine wash its blankets, cushions and all textiles at 60°C or put them in the dryer at a high temperature to eliminate bedbugs and their eggs.
• Change its litter regularly
• Vacuum frequently-used areas: Vacuum its basket, cat tree, carpets and sofas. Empty the bag and dispose of it immediately in an airtight bin.
• Monitor its behaviour: If your cat is scratching excessively or showing signs of stress, consult a vet.
• Protect your cat: During a bed bug treatment, keep your cat away from the treated areas to avoid exposure to chemical insecticides that are harmful to its health.

➡️ To go further: The complete protocol against bed bugs.

Bed bugs in birds

Bed bugs can also bite domestic birds such as chickens, although this is very rare. The most exposed areas are the parts of the body without feathers, such as the legs or around the eyes.

A bitten bird may show:

• Unusual agitation
• Swelling of the skin
• Lesions on the legs
• Ruffled plumage
• Weight loss due to stress and bites

Bed bugs can hide in birdhouses, litter, cages, under perches or in the corners of the room where the bird lives.

Good to know: Bird nests can be a source of bed bug contamination

What to do?

• Change the litter regularly
• Inspect the bottom and surroundings of the cage every day
• Remove accessories from the cage: branches, etc.
• Wash the cage
• Apply a treatment specifically for bed bugs

Bed bugs in reptiles

Bed bugs do not generally attack reptiles (snakes, turtles, lizards), as they do not provide ideal feeding conditions. These parasites prefer warm-blooded mammals, such as humans and pets.

However, in the event of severe infestation, bed bugs may seek refuge in terrariums/vivariums or under accessories such as heating pads and reptile hiding places.

What to do?

• Clean and disinfect the terrarium regularly
• Check every nook and cranny and cracks where bugs could be hiding
• Avoid using chemical insecticides that are harmful to reptiles (move them in case of treatment)

How can you recognise bed bug bites on a pet?

1. Appearance of the bites

• Small red or swollen bumps, often grouped in a line or cluster.
• Itching and irritation, more pronounced in sensitive animals.
• Affected areas: stomach, ears, muzzle, legs, areas with little hair.

➡️ Read also: Everything you need to know about bed bug bites.

2. Behavioural changes

• The animal scratches, nibbles or rubs itself more than usual.
• It shows signs of discomfort or restlessness, especially at night.
• Loss of appetite or unusual fatigue in case of severe irritation.

3. Differentiating bed bug bites from other parasites

• Fleas: Bites often scattered, intense itching and presence of small black dots (flea droppings) in the coat.
• Ticks: A single swollen lump with a tick attached to the skin.
• Lice: Rarer, more likely in farms and kennels.

Are bed bug bites dangerous for pets?

However, their (rare) bites can cause various problems for dogs, cats, birds and other pets:

• Irritation and itching
• Allergic reactions
• Stress and behavioural disorders
• Mild anaemia in fragile animals

How can you relieve bed bug bites on your pet?

To soothe itching and prevent infection in your pet, here are the steps to take:

1. Clean your pet’s skin and coat.

• Gently wash the affected area with lukewarm water and mild soap suitable for animals.
• Dry the skin thoroughly to avoid maceration, especially in long-haired animals.

2. Apply a soothing treatment

• Use a specific soothing lotion for animals (based on aloe vera, calendula or camomile).
• You can also apply a cold water compress to relieve irritation.

3. Prevent your pet from scratching too much

.

• Trim your pet’s claws to limit injuries caused by scratching.
• For cats and dogs, a collar or a collar may be useful if licking is excessive.
• Consult a vet if necessary!

Are chemical bed bug treatments dangerous for pets?

Yes, chemical bed bug treatments can be toxic to pets. Many insecticides used to eradicate these pests contain substances that are harmful to dogs, cats, birds and reptiles.

Above all, ask for advice from the professional who treats your home. They will be able to give you specific instructions: airing, washing at a high temperature, etc.

Opt for natural solutions

Chemical treatments should be a last resort and only used in the event of a serious infestation.

Above all, opt for natural treatments such as diatomaceous earth, anti-bug covers or high-temperature dry steam, which are safe for animals.

Dogs: a formidable weapon for detecting bed bugs

Thanks to their highly developed sense of smell, dog bed bug detectors are one of the most reliable ways to detect an infestation. In a few minutes, they are able to pinpoint the presence of these pests, even in hard-to-reach places such as mattresses, skirting boards or cracks.

Used by pest control experts, these specially trained dogs enable a quick and effective diagnosis, thus avoiding unnecessary treatments and directly targeting the infested areas. An effective solution to act quickly and limit the spread of bed bugs!

FAQ

Do animals transmit bed bugs to humans?

No, bedbugs do not live on animals and do not cling to their fur like fleas or ticks. They prefer fixed places (mattresses, skirting boards, nooks and crannies, etc.) to hide and wait for their blood meal.

What is the natural predator of bedbugs?

Skull crickets, geckos and certain beetles are predators of bed bugs. However, their presence in a house does not completely eliminate the infestation.

Can bed bugs hide in animal bedding?

No, bedbugs prefer dry, smooth surfaces such as mattresses, box springs and cracks in furniture. Your pet’s bedding is therefore not a favourable place for them to infest.

Do you have suspicious marks and stains in your bedding? Feces near the skirting boards? You may have bed bugs in your home. We don’t need to remind you, but this little pest, also known as ‘Cimex lectularius’, is often very difficult to live with on a daily basis. Early detection is therefore essential to avoid any proliferation. Here’s a practical guide to identifying the different types of marks and stains and spotting the presence of bed bugs in your home. You’ll also find a list of effective treatments for eradicating them.

How can you recognise traces of bed bugs?

Bed bug droppings and excrement

Bed bug droppings are one of the most telling signs of an infestation. These harmful insects feed exclusively on human blood, and their excrement, composed of digested blood residue, leaves characteristic traces.

Here’s how to identify them:

• Appearance: Droppings appear in the form of small black or brown spots, similar to ink blots. They are usually clustered near areas where bedbugs hide: mattresses, box springs, the seams of sheets or skirting boards.
• Location: Look for these marks around mattress seams, on pillows, in the crevices of the box spring, or on furniture close to the bed. These stains can also be found on walls or behind the headboard.
• Texture: Excrement is dry and spreads slightly when rubbed with a damp cloth, leaving a brownish mark.

The droppings are often accompanied by dead bedbug skins or whitish eggs. These are very revealing signs of an infestation.

Practical tip: If you find these marks, don’t ignore them. Vacuum the affected areas immediately, then use a high-temperature steam cleaner (minimum 100°C) to decontaminate thoroughly, and apply our FREEZE aerosol.

➡️ To find out more: The complete bed bugs protocol.

Traces of blood on bedding

At night, if you move around while you’re asleep, it’s common to crush bedbugs that are full of blood after their meal.

What’s more, a bedbug can absorb up to twice its own weight. When it has eaten too much, it can leave a trail of blood behind.

How do you clean bloodstains from bedding?

1. Act quickly: As soon as you spot a stain, treat it immediately before it dries, as fresh stains are easier to remove.
2. Use cold water: Soak the affected area in cold water. Avoid hot water, which can set the stain.
3. Apply bicarbonate of soda: Prepare a paste with bicarbonate of soda and a little water, apply it to the stain and leave for 30 minutes before rinsing.
4. Mild soap or stain remover: Apply a mild soap or stain remover specifically for blood stains (such as percarbonate-based products). Scrub gently with a soft bristle brush.
5. Wash at high temperature: Put stained clothes in the washing machine at 60°C to remove all traces of stain and reduce the risk of parasites spreading.
6. Natural option: You can also use white vinegar or lemon juice.

Use a bed bugs with mattress cover

You can protect your bedding with a special bed bugs with mattress cover. Similar to an anti-dust mite cover, it’s made from a multi-layered non-woven fabric. It forms a total barrier against bed bugs trapped inside. Some covers guarantee a micron-level seal for total protection.

Other signs of infestation

Bites and pimples

How can you recognise bed bug bites?

Bites are often concentrated in areas uncovered during sleep, such as the arms, legs, neck and face.

In terms of appearance, they take the form of small red pimples, often grouped together in a straight line or in clusters, and cause severe itching.

The itching and redness may persist for several days, or even a week, depending on the person’s sensitivity.

➡️ For more information: Bed bug bites: recognising and treating them.

No visible stings?

Bites alone are not always enough to confirm an infestation. They need to be cross-checked with other clues, such as traces of blood on bedding, droppings or bed bug eggs in the nooks and crannies of the bedroom.

Difference from other insect bites

• Mosquitoes: Mosquito bites are often isolated and larger, with immediate itching.
• Fleas: Fleas generally bite around the ankles and leave slightly raised spots.
• Mites: They cause diffuse redness, accompanied by constant irritation, rather than well-defined pimples.
• Pyemotes and scleroderms: These insects can also cause red pimples, but their bites are less frequent and occur on contact with infested textiles or grain.

What should you do if you are bitten by bed bugs?

• Do not scratch to avoid aggravating the itching or causing an infection
• Apply a soothing roll-on such as ROLL ON Serenid
• Wash the area with warm water and mild soap
• Consult a doctor if necessary

➡️ See also: How can you relieve bed bug bites?

Bed bug eggs

Bed bug eggs and moults are clear signs of an infestation in your home. These traces are often left in places where bedbugs hide between their blood meals, such as bedding, cracks and dark nooks and crannies.

How can you recognise bed bug eggs?

• Size and appearance: Bed bug eggs measure around 1 millimetre, are white or translucent in colour and have an elongated, slightly oval shape. They look like small grains of rice.
• Location: They are generally found in the seams of mattresses, cracks in furniture, skirting boards and under bedsprings. Female bed bugs lay their eggs in hard-to-reach places.
• Number: A female can lay 5 to 7 eggs a day, with a total capacity of 200 to 500 eggs in her lifetime, which can quickly worsen an infestation.

Bed bug moults

Molts are the exoskeletons left behind by bed bugs as they grow from nymphs to adults.

They are light brown or translucent in colour and resemble immobile but empty bedbugs.

Like eggs, they are often found in bedbugs’ favourite hiding places, such as mattress seams, furniture crevices and dark corners.

What should you do if you find bed bug eggs or moults?

1. Vacuum infested areas, paying particular attention to mattress seams and crevices.
2. Use a high-temperaturesteam cleaner (at least 120°C) to kill the eggs.
3. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in strategic nooks and crannies to prevent the eggs from hatching.
4. Follow up with a natural insecticide treatment such as Serenid spray.

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The smell of bed bugs

One of the often overlooked but telling signs of a bed bug infestation is the distinctive odour they can give off.

Bed bugs give off a slightly sweet smell, sometimes compared to berries or a musty odour. This smell comes from their pheromones.

In the event of an advanced infestation, the smell becomes stronger due to the large number of bedbugs present and the accumulation of their faeces and excrement.

This odour is generally concentrated in areas where they hide, such as

• The seams of mattresses and pillows
• Cracks and nooks in furniture or walls
• Skirting boards and carpets near beds
• Box springs or headboards

Confirming the presence of bed bugs with dog detection

Dog detection is an effective and increasingly popular method of confirming the presence of bed bugs. Thanks to their exceptional sense of smell, trained dogs are able to spot bedbugs, even when they are hiding in hard-to-reach places.

Unlike a manual inspection, which can be long and tedious, a detection dog can inspect a room in just a few minutes. What’s more, dogs can target infested areas precisely, reducing the need for widespread, often costly, treatment.

Dog detection is particularly useful for early infestations, where other visual signs (eggs, droppings, moults) are still difficult to spot.

Once the bedbugs have been located, the professional will propose a suitable treatment plan.

With the explosion in tourism and travel, cases of bed bug infestation are becoming increasingly common in holiday lets. Airbnb accommodation is particularly affected, leaving travellers and owners often powerless to deal with the problem. What are the right things to do? Is it possible to get a refund? Who should pay for treatment? Here’s a practical guide to the subject of bed bugs in Airbnb accommodation.

How do you know if there are bed bugs in an Airbnb?

Before unpacking your bags and enjoying your Airbnb, it’s a good idea to check whether or not the accommodation is infested with bed bugs. Prevention is better than cure! Although these pests are often difficult to spot at first sight, they do leave some characteristic clues.

Here are the steps to follow to detect their presence:

1. Inspect the bed and bedding

Carefully examine the mattress, sheets, pillows and seams of the bed base. Look for traces of blood, black spots (droppings), whitish eggs or dead skin. Don’t forget to check the headboard and footboards.

2. Check the nooks and crannies

Bed bugs love to hide in cracks, skirting boards or furniture close to the bed. Use your phone’s torch to get a better look.

3. Detect an unusual smell

In the event of a major infestation, bed bugs give off a slightly sweet or musty smell due to their pheromones.

4. Keep an eye on your bites

If you notice bites grouped in rows or clusters on exposed areas of skin during the night, bed bugs are very likely to be present. These bites often cause intense itching.

In principle, bed bug bites are not dangerous to health, but they can cause allergic reactions.

What to do in the event of an infestation

Discovering bed bugs in an Airbnb can be very stressful. Don’t panic, here’s what you need to do to limit the damage.

Report the problem immediately

Contact your host and Airbnb customer service as soon as you suspect the presence of bed bugs. Take photos of any visible marks (black spots, bedbugs, eggs) and bites on your skin to support your report. Transparency is essential to avoid other travellers being affected as well.

Contact Airbnb user support

The Airbnb platform offers assistance for travellers.

Good to know: every booking on Airbnb includes AirCover protection, which means that in the event of a serious problem, you will be offered similar accommodation, subject to availability and at a comparable price.

Don’t move your luggage

Avoid placing your luggage on the floor, bed or surfaces close to infested areas. Place it on a metal support, such as a luggage rack, or in the bathroom, where bedbugs have fewer hiding places. In any case, up high! And lock your luggage at night.

Protect your personal belongings

Put your clothes and personal belongings in airtight plastic bags to keep bedbugs out. If you have any doubts, wash your clothes (worn or not) immediately at a minimum temperature of 60°C or freeze them at -18°C for at least 48 hours.

Inspect and clean your luggage

Before leaving your home, thoroughly inspect your suitcases and bags. Use a hoover to remove any eggs or bedbugs. Empty the contents of the hoover into an airtight bag and dispose of it outside.

Avoid carrying bedbugs home

When you return, take precautions to avoid contaminating your home. Unpack your luggage outside or in a tiled room that’s easy to clean, or even in your bathtub. Put your clothes in a tumble dryer at high temperature or use a steam cleaner on your luggage and textiles.

Don’t sleep in another bed in your home

Changing beds or rooms can worsen the infestation by dispersing bed bugs throughout the accommodation. It’s best to stay in the infested room until the host takes action.

Request a change of accommodation

If the infestation is confirmed and the host cannot resolve the problem immediately, ask to be rehoused.

➡️ Also worth reading: Bed bugs in hotels

Precautions to take when travelling

To avoid bringing bed bugs home with you after a stay in an Airbnb or other accommodation, here are the preventive measures to take before, during and after your trip.

Before you arrive

• Check the latest notices
• Prepare your bedbug repellent kit: Take along airtight plastic bags, a natural repellent spray (such as pyrethrum-based sprays), a repellent leaflet and, if necessary, adhesive traps.

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During your stay

• Avoid placing your luggage on the bed or floor
• Inspect bedding and furniture
• Store your belongings in airtight bags
• Use bed bug repellents

Before going home

• Wash your clothes at a high temperature: Run your clothes at 60°C minimum or tumble dry to kill any bedbugs or eggs.
• Inspect your luggage: Check the seams, folds and pockets to make sure no bedbugs have infiltrated. Vacuum your luggage and empty the bag into an outside bin.
• Put your luggage in the freezer if necessary: If you have any doubts, leave your luggage in a freezer at -18°C for 48 hours to eliminate any parasites.

Once you’re home

• Unpack your suitcases outside
• Never put your luggage on or near your bed
• Use a steam cleaner: steam dry your luggage, textiles or other objects to disinfect them completely.

Bed bugs in an Airbnb: can you claim a refund?

Refunding your stay

Here’s how to proceed:

• Report the problem immediately within 72 hours of discovering it.

You can contact Airbnb user support by email, online chat or by phone on +33 1 84 88 40 00.

• Provide proof: photos or videos.

Good to know: In principle, the owner is obliged to provide pest-free accommodation. In the event of a proven infestation, payment will therefore be cancelled in full or in part.

Reimbursement of medical expenses

Medical consultations, antihistamines or antiseptic ointments – bed bug bites can cost money. Here again, travellers can request reimbursement of these costs.

Airbnb owners: what to do if your accommodation is infested by bed bugs

The use of Airbnb accommodation by French and foreign travellers automatically increases the risk of contamination. It should be remembered that the presence of these pests is in no way linked to a lack of hygiene.

➡️ For further information: The complete protocol against bed bugs.

Here’s what landlords should do if they find bed bugs in their Airbnb rental property.

Schedule a specialist response

Airbnb can help you coordinate the services of a company specialising in bed bug treatment. Dog detection is also a very effective method.

The professional who carries out the inspection in your Airbnb property must provide you with a detailed report following the inspection.

Carry out appropriate treatment

In the event of an advanced infestation, chemical treatment against bed bugs is necessary.

We recommend that you use a service provider with Certibiocide accreditation (certifying that technicians are properly trained to handle powerful insecticides). To avoid fraudulent intervention, here is a map of approved professionals.

Does home insurance cover bed bug treatment?

The extent to which home insurance covers bed bug treatment varies from policy to policy and from company to company. Generally speaking, standard home insurance policies do not cover the cost of eradicating pests, including bed bugs, as these operations are considered to be part of routine home maintenance.

You should therefore check the clauses of your home insurance policy and contact your insurer to find out whether such cover is included or can be added.

The arrival of bed bugs in a home is often associated with a lack of hygiene. This is simply not true! Where do these pests really come from? What are the risk factors for infestation? And what are the best practices for preventing them? Find out in this article.

What causes an infestation?

Cause n°1 : Someone brings bed bugs into your home

This is one of the most common causes of infestation. It can happen when a guest, relative or even a professional, such as a mover or technician, visits your home after having been in contact with infested premises. Bed bugs can hide in clothes, shoes, bags or suitcases without the person concerned noticing. When it’s quiet, they come out to hide in furniture, skirting boards and other hiding places. 

Practical prevention tips

• When receiving visitors, ask them to deposit their luggage in a tiled area (avoid the bedroom or living room) and visually inspect their belongings, especially if they have just returned from a trip.
• If in doubt, isolate their clothes and suitcases in an airtight plastic bag or other closed container. Tell them to wash their belongings at 60°C.

Cause n°2 : Moving into an infested apartment or building

It’s quite possible to move into a dwelling already infested by these pests, either because previous tenants didn’t deal with the problem, or because bed bugs have spread from a neighboring apartment.

These pests can travel through walls, air ducts, cracks or baseboards, infesting several units in the same building.

By bringing your furniture and belongings into an infested apartment, you run the risk of contaminating your personal possessions. Bed bugs can then hide in your bedding, clothes or furniture, making the infestation even harder to eradicate.

Practical prevention tips

• Before you move in, ask your landlord or real estate agent about the history of bed bugs in your home. Don’t hesitate to ask about previous infestations and treatments.
• During the visit, carefully inspect the rooms, especially the bedrooms, for signs of infestation such as black spots on baseboards, mattresses or walls.
• In some cases, the presence of bed bugs may be hidden by the sellers. If you have any doubts, you can call in a dog detection professional. It’s an effective method.

Cause no. 3: Increased travel 

In 2023, there were 448 million overnight stays booked on Airbnb worldwide (source) and 1,049 million on Booking.com (source).

Travel is one of the main causes of the spread of bed bugs. Whether you’re staying in a hotel, renting a vacation property, or traveling on business, bed bugs can easily hide in your luggage and clothing. Hotel rooms, especially busy ones, are often hot spots for these insects.

The rise in international travel in recent years has also contributed to the resurgence of bed bugs, as they are often transported from one country to another, regardless of climate or season.

And beware of huts when hiking!

Practical prevention tips

• When staying in a hotel or rental, inspect bedding and furniture for signs of bed bugs (black spots, bloodstains, or small insects).
• If in doubt, you can use our bed bug repellent Shield Spray as a preventive measure.
• Keep your luggage on a raised support rather than on the floor or bed, and avoid storing your clothes in drawers.
• When you return, wash your clothes at high temperature (60°C minimum) and vacuum your luggage.

Cause n°4 : Buying second-hand items

Leboncoin, Vinted, etc. – second-hand furniture is very popular with consumers.

However, buying second-hand furniture or objects is a risk factor for bed bugs infestation. Bed bugs can easily hide undetected in mattress seams, sofa nooks and crannies, furniture drawers or even second-hand textiles.

Unfortunately, items offered on online sites, at garage sales, flea markets or second-hand markets are rarely inspected before sale.

Practical prevention tips

• Inspect carefully before buying second-hand;
• Check the seams of mattresses and sofas, and the crevices of wooden furniture for signs of infestation (black spots, small dead skins or insects).
• If in doubt, steam furniture at high temperature and wash textiles at 60°C before bringing them into your home;
• Avoid picking up items left on the sidewalk, even if they appear to be in good condition.

Cause n°5 : Public transport

Buses, trains and subways are another means by which bed bugs can spread rapidly. These insects hide in upholstered seats, cracks in carriages or buses, and can pass from one passenger to another, attaching themselves to clothing or bags.

A recent example of the psychosis surrounding bed bugs occurred in the run-up to the Paris Olympics in 2024. The media reported testimonies from metro and train passengers claiming to have seen bed bugs on Parisian public transport. This concern created a real panic, prompting many people to avoid certain journeys or take precautionary measures, such as not sitting in the carriages.

Practical prevention tips

• Try to limit direct contact with seats and textile surfaces, especially if you notice signs of infestation (black spots or visible insects).
• Use SHIELD Bed Bug Repellent by applying it to areas of contact with seats and luggage.
• After a journey, inspect your clothes and bags to make sure no bedbugs have latched onto them.
• Wash your clothes at high temperature and vacuum your luggage to avoid introducing these insects into your home.

Cause n°6 : Infested public places

Bed bugs can spread easily in busy public places, such as cinemas, libraries, waiting rooms or even offices. In these places, bedbugs find ideal hiding places in upholstered seats, carpets or even cracks in furniture. They generally feed at night, but can also bite in the middle of the day in dark places such as cinemas or theaters. Clinging to visitors’ clothes or bags, they can be transported elsewhere, causing new infestations.

Public institutions such as hospitals, schools and nursing homes can also be high-risk areas. An infestation in such places can have serious consequences, as it can spread rapidly to large numbers of people.

Practical prevention tips

• Avoid placing your belongings directly on seats or on the floor.
• If you’re visiting crowded places like cinemas or libraries, inspect your clothes and bags as you leave to make sure no bedbugs have latched onto them.
• Use a bed bug repellent spray.
• Wash your clothes at high temperatures after frequenting high-risk public places.

Cause n°7 : The use of inappropriate insecticide products

Some commercially available insecticides, often used by non-expert homeowners, are not specifically designed for bed bugs. This is the case, for example, with methylated spirits.

These products can sometimes repel bedbugs without actually killing them, causing them to hide even deeper in the nooks and crannies of your home. Eradication is then even more complicated. In addition to being ineffective, some products, such as Sniper 1000 EC, can be very harmful to your health.

Incorrect or abusive use of these products can make bed bugs even more resistant to certain types of chemical treatment.

Practical prevention tips

• Use safe, effective products like our Sereni d range, which has been awarded the Certibiocide Nuisibles and Certipunaise labels.
• In the event of an advanced infestation, call in a professional pest control technician, who will use certified and appropriate products. You can use this official website to find a certified expert near you.

Cause no. 8: Human errors that spread the infestation

Ignorance of the subject often leads us to make several mistakes that contribute to worsening infestations.

These include

• Recovering objects left outside.
• Shamefully failing to report an infestation;
• Moving house without saying anything;
• Throwing away infested furniture or mattresses without due care;
• Recovering objects left outside.

Cause 9: Insufficient response from public authorities

In the 1950s, France managed to get rid of bed bugs thanks to the use of pesticides such as DDT. DDT is now banned, as it is considered hazardous to health. Since then, proliferation has resumed, notably due to international travel.

The French government and the Social Security system have now set up comprehensive information systems on bed bugs. A “Certibiocide” certificate has also been created to professionalize the industry. It’s mainly at town hall level that work remains to be done. Paris, Marseille, etc. – some communes seem to be out of their depth, with many public and private households infested.

Where do bed bugs come from?

Origin of Cimex Lectularius

Bed bugs, or Cimex lectularius, are hematophagous insects that feed exclusively on blood, mainly that of humans. Although their arrival is difficult to date, their presence dates back to prehistoric times, when these pests lived in caves, feeding on the blood of bats before adapting to humans as they began to occupy the caves.

Bed bugs in the world today

Bed bugs are now a global problem, affecting both developed and developing countries. The United States, Canada, England, Belgium, etc. are all affected.

According to experts, frequent travel is the main cause of the problem.

Control methods are evolving, with chemical, thermal and mechanical treatments, but prevention remains the best weapon against their spread.