With cases of bed bugs on the rise and warmer temperatures in the UK, Britons have been warned about the pests.

Not only are they a pain to get rid of once they enter our homes but sometimes they can be hard to spot.

However, one expert has come to the rescue with a word of warning about what you need to do if your home becomes infested.

Howard Carter, a bite prevention expert and founder of insect repellent Incognito, said: “Bed bugs are becoming an increasing problem around the world and at home in the UK.

“Reported incidents of bed bugs in the UK more than doubled over a year, according to a report by Rentokil.”

There were more than twice as many incidents between September and December last year, compared to the same period the previous year.

Carter continued: “The increase is mainly due to warmer temperatures and the cost of living crisis is also a factor, prompting more people to buy second-hand beds and mattresses, along with bed bugs’ increased resistance to common insecticides. Increased travel has also played its part.”

How do you spot bed bugs?

“Bed bugs are about 5mm long and red, brown or dark yellow. They live on furniture and bedding.

“Their bites can be itchy, but do not usually cause other health problems. On white skin, the bites are usually red, whilst they may look purple on darker skin. They are usually on exposed skin, such as the face, neck and arms.”

What to do if you find them in your home?

“If you discover one in your home, wash bedding at 60C for at least 90 minutes. Then tumble dry the bedding for 30 minutes. It’s also helpful to vacuum your bed and mattress plus any places near to where the bed bugs have been found.

“Preventing them is better and easier than removing them. Spray the bottom of bags and luggage with a good insect repellent which will stop them from climbing onboard and from there into your bed.”