Bed bugs are tiny bloodsucking insects that creep out of their hiding places at night to feed on blood, according to the NHS. They live in tiny cracks around the bedroom, most commonly in or around the bed frame. While being bitten by a bed bug isn’t necessarily dangerous, they can be very annoying and may leave some people with bad reactions to their bites. Your bedroom could be at risk of a bed bugs infestation if you notice a musty smell in the air, it’s been revealed.
Some people with a bed bugs infestation notice a sweet or musty smell in their bedroom, according to exterminator Terminix.
You may confused the smell with that of a herb – coriander to be specific, it said.
If you notice a funky smell in your bedroom, it may be a good idea to check for bed bugs around your bed.
“Although adult bed bugs are easily visible with the naked eye, they can be difficult to find,” said Terminix.
“They often avoid light and motion by hiding in dark cracks and crevices during the day. But even if you don’t see them, you might be able to smell them.
“Like many species of bugs, bed bugs release odours called alarm pheromones. When a group of bed bugs gets disturbed, you may be able to smell that odour.
“Odours may also result from bed bug faecal material. The odour is described many different ways and has been compared to the smell of coriander, a herb.
“Older publications even refer to the bed bug as the coriander bug. Others describe the smell as ‘sweet’ or ‘musty’.”
If you notice the smell, you should check for other wanting signs of bed bugs, including blood stains and skins from moulting.
You should also check your body for bed bug bites.
Common bed bug bite symptoms include raised, red welts.
The bites can be very itchy, and they’re usually found in a line across the body.
If you do have a bed bugs infestation, it’s best to clean all of your bedding, curtains and clothes in hot water. Use the highest setting on your dryer when you dry them.
Vacuum your bed and the entire surrounding area. After finishing, empty the contents into a plastic bag and put it straight in the bin.
If your mattress has bed bugs, it’s probably worth just getting rid of it and buying a new one.
Bed bugs can survive for several months in the bedroom without feeding. They usually feed for about five minutes before retreating back to their hiding spaces.
