Bedbugs are small, wingless insects the size of an apple seed. They feed exclusively on blood, and prefer human blood. These nocturnal creepy crawlies are most commonly found living in bedding and the seams of mattresses, but may also found in any small, dark crevice of your home, including wall cracks, furniture and even between the pages of books.

Bedbugs are found worldwide and are the ultimate hitchhikers. They are frequently found in motels, hostels and other buildings with close proximity and high occupancy turnover. Hiding in your luggage and clothing, the bugs can hitch a ride and invade your home. Returning from a holiday can be a prime time to expose yourself to a potential infestation of your home.

Medical News Today recommends the following measures to reduce the risk of importing bed bugs to your home

• Prevent bugs from getting into luggage - by also using a large plastic bag
• Before settling into a hotel room, check for signs of infestation
• On return from a vacation, vacuum suitcases, launder all clothing and freeze other possessions
• Avoid second-hand furniture, mattresses and box springs, or look for signs of a bed bug infestation before taking them home

Any household may be targeted by these creatures. A high standard of hygiene can discourage bedbugs from spreading widely throughout a home, and early detection will prevent the spread to a full scale infestation. As bedbugs have been found to live for up to a year without feeding, and repeat professional treatments with insecticides are usually required to eradicate an invasion, prevention is definitely worthwhile.

Good night sleep tight, don't let the bedbugs bite!