Bed bugs: Smelling an acidic odour or a smell of marzipan could indicate an infesta

When bed bugs attach themselves to people or clothing, often in infested public places, they can be inadvertently introduced into homes. People can spot signs of an infestation in a number of ways, including by certain odours.

Many bugs emit odours called alarm pheromones, and bed bugs are one of them said Dodson Pest Control.

The site added: “If a large group of bed bugs is disturbed, such as when someone plops themselves on a bed that they have made their home, they may emit these pheromones.

“Bed bug odours can also come from faecal matter.

“Interestingly, bed bugs can smell different to different people.

“Many people report smelling coriander, but another common description is the scent of spoiled raspberries.

“Others report a strong acidic scent or that of almonds or marzipan.

“If you notice an unusual smell in an otherwise clean room, it may be time to call in a professional.

“If you do not smell anything, don’t be concerned, as not everyone can detect an infestation through scent.”

“Some professional exterminators use portable devices to raise the temperature of a room to a lethal temperature,” explains Mayo Clinic.

According to the health body, all stages of bedbugs can be killed at 50 degrees Celsius.

There are two roads to go down: chemical treatments and non-chemical treatments.

Chemical treatments are called insecticides – substances designed to kill insects.

If you are attempting to eradicate an infestation without professional help, it is advisable to steer clear of chemical treatments, however.