Bed bugs, the blood-sucking insects that often reside in furniture or bedding, are a growing concern for UK residents. While their bites are usually just itchy, the NHS advises eliminating these pests at the first sign of infestation. These tiny, reddish-brown pests are experts at staying out of sight, often nesting in mattress seams, pillowcases, and your bed sheets.

While they don't spread disease, their bites can cause itchy welts and they are highly effective at spreading from place to place. If you've noticed mysterious bites, small rust-colored stains, or a musty odor around your bed, it might be time to take a closer look. Signs of bed bugs include bites, bloodstains on sheets, and tiny shell casings near your mattress.

In a desperate plea on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook group, one user's post read: "My daughter has come back from travelling and I think she's brought bed bugs back.

"I've continuously cleaned, wiped, vacuumed, and bought spray. Washed everything, but can't seem to get rid of them. Any advice would be greatly appreciated."

These critters reproduce quickly, with females laying numerous eggs, allowing populations to soar in mere weeks, hence why swift action is crucial. A top tip is laundering all bedding and blankets.

In response, pest control officer Anita Parker advised: "I'm a pest control officer. Steaming is great if you want to use a natural method.

"You should wash everything at 60C. Using baking soda is fine but the strength of the ingredient will be lower than if you were to call a professional in.

"If you are steaming, move the nozzle slowly to ensure the steam kills the eggs. They look like small grains of clear rice with a tunnel in the middle."

Bed bugs, including their eggs, die when subjected to high temperatures, which means a scorching 60C can "effectively" zap them out of existence.

For top-notch bug-busting results, toss your linens and throws into a 30-minute hot cycle in both washer and dryer.

While your bedclothes twirl in the laundry, seize the chance to give your mattress a thorough steam and vacuum.

Don't forget to inspect behind the mattress and delve beneath the bed too. Once everything is dry as a bone, dress your bed back up and keep an eye out for any pesky survivors.