UK Heatwave - protect against unwanted bed bugs | Soak&Sleep

As the UK basks in an unexpected heatwave (with temperatures expected to reach 29° on Thursday), spirits are high, but while many welcome the sunshine, there's one unwelcome guest that thrives in the heat: bed bugs. 

With rising temperatures comes the perfect breeding ground for these pests, and your bed may be more vulnerable than you think! With the Easter holidays just behind us, many households across the UK took the opportunity to travel. But what many don’t realise is that bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers, often latching onto luggage, clothing, or soft furnishings and making their way back home unnoticed.

Image by Pixabay - woman backpacking

The bed bug outbreak in Paris (2023) serves as a warning of how quickly infestations can escalate in urban environments during warm weather. Like Paris, UK cities are densely populated and rely heavily on public transport, both of which are perfect conditions for bed bugs to spread. During heatwaves, increased travel, crowded indoor spaces, and changes in bedding habits (warmer nights and sweat) create the perfect storm for a surge in activity. Without greater public awareness, the UK could see a similar rise in infestations if precautions aren’t taken.

In Paris, the spike in reports was linked to high tourism during summer, as well as major events like Fashion Week. The UK sees similar behavior in a heatwave - more travel, packed public transport, increased overnight stays, all of which are known risk factors for bed bug spread.

Our recent survey carried out in April, revealed that just over half of UK respondents consider a mattress protector an essential household item. However, with 30% declaring they haven't replaced theirs in over five years, many may be unknowingly leaving themselves vulnerable. While heatwaves spark excitement, they also create the ideal conditions for pests like bed bugs to thrive, turning what feels like a seasonal luxury into a hidden risk. A simple, affordable product like a quality bed bug mattress protector offers twofold protection: it helps safeguard both your purchase and your health. Investing early can save significant discomfort and expense down the line.

Before you throw open the windows and strip down to lighter bedding, it’s worth considering how to protect your sleeping space from an uncomfortable and unhygienic invasion.

Tips to avoid bed bugs:

  1. Invest in good quality anti bed bug mattress and pillow protectors 
  2. Clean bedding regularly and also Vacuum mattresses, around bed frames and furniture and carpets frequently, especially in warm weather
  3. Reduce and sort clutter - bed bugs love to hide in quiet secluded areas, so minimise their chances by spring cleaning any unnecessary clutter
  4. Be prepared and know the signs - watch out for small reddish-brown bugs, blood spots on bedding and itchy, red bites in a line or cluster

Understanding these patterns can aid in effective prevention and control strategies. From as little as 2p per night you can protect your bedding and your sleep. 

Survey questions:
How often do you replace your mattress protector? 29.56% replace every 5+ years.
Do you regard a protector as an essential item? 60.52% agree. 
1,209 respondents April 2025