A pest control expert has warned that if you smell a particular smell in your house, it could mean you have a bed bug infestation.
These small, flightless insects are notorious for feeding on human blood and are found close to sleeping areas. Annoyingly.
The British Association of Dermatologists says bedbugs can thrive even in spotlessly clean dwellings due to their need for a blood host.
Norman Smith, the owner of Invicta Environmental, urges vigilance for the unusual whiff of almonds, which may indicate a bed bug infestation.
🛏️ Bedbugs: The Unwanted Cuddle Buddies You Never Asked For! 🪳❌
— iPest Management (@IpestM) June 4, 2025
They’re sneaky, persistent, and definitely not paying rent, but somehow, they’ve made themselves at home in your bed. From itchy bites to sleepless nights, these freeloaders are nothing but trouble. pic.twitter.com/eeauKsMb6N
The scent comes from pheromones given off when there is a substantial bed bug population, a detail Norman points out often goes unnoticed as people look for more obvious signs such as bites or sighting the insects themselves.
Mr Smith said: "When bedbugs have established themselves in large numbers, they release pheromones that create a musty, sweet almond smell. Many people don't connect this smell with bedbugs and might search for other causes like damp."
He also emphasises how difficult these pests are to spot due to their expert hiding abilities, saying: "Most people think they'll easily see bedbugs crawling around, but they're incredibly sneaky insects.
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"Their flat bodies allow them to hide in the tiniest cracks and seams of mattresses, bed frames, and furniture."
Smith has sounded the alarm on the sly behaviour of bedbugs, highlighting their adaptation to become increasingly sneaky.
He said: "Bedbugs typically feed for two to five minutes before retreating back to their hiding places.
"This usually happens between 2am and 5am when people are in their deepest sleep stage."
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