The 1 Smell That Signals Bed Bugs Are In Your Home

picture alliance via Getty Images If you’ve been blissfully unaware of what went on in Paris earlier this year, I’m incredibly sorry to break the news that a new infestation of bedbugs might be headed your way. Deputy mayor of Paris Emmanuel Gregoire called the infestation “widespread.” He said: “You have to understand that in reality no one is safe, obviously there are risk factors but in reality, you can catch bedbugs anywhere and bring them home.” Speaking of bringing them home, smaller populations of the insects are already here, according to experts who warn that “second-hand furniture, as well as a resurgence in travel and hotel stays since the coronavirus pandemic, are thought to be behind the rise in infestations.” Bed bugs have a smell you should look out for You might even be able to tell if you have an infestation due to the smell. “This is often described as a musty, sweet smell.” Dodson Pest Control explains: “Bed bugs can smell different to different people. Pattern “Bedbug bites usually appear in a clustered or linear pattern in areas of exposed skin such as arms, legs, neck, and face.” Appearance Day explains bites resemble small, red welts or raised bumps: “On black or brown skin, they may look purple and may be harder to see.” Itching “Bedbug bites can be intensely itchy, and the itching may persist for several days.” Nocturnal occurrence “Bedbugs are most active at night, so bites often occur while you’re sleeping.” How to treat bedbug bites Day explains although bug bites can be uncomfortable, they usually resolve on their own within a week or two. “Applying something cool like a clean cloth soaked in cold water can relieve itching and reduce swelling.” How to get bed bugs out of your home “Thoroughly inspect your bedding, mattress, and the surrounding area for signs of bedbugs,” Day explains.