Effective ways to manage bed bug bites this summer
Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, beach holidays and warm nights under the stars. But as wonderful as summer is, it often brings unwelcome guests into our homes and travels: bed bugs.
These tiny pests are more than just an annoyance; their bites can cause itchy welts, discomfort, and sleepless nights. If you’ve found yourself battling bed bug bites, don’t worry.
There are effective, low-cost ways to manage the bites and deter these pests without relying on expensive solutions.
Bed bug bites typically appear as small, red, itchy welts, often in clusters or lines. While they’re not known to transmit diseases, they can trigger allergic reactions in some people or lead to secondary infections if scratched excessively.
The key to managing bed bug bites is soothing the irritation, preventing further bites, and ensuring you don’t scratch and harm your skin.
Let’s explore practical, affordable ways to tackle bed bug bites and keep your home pest-free.
Soothe the itch naturally
Scratching bites may provide momentary relief, but they can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of infection. Instead, try these simple remedies to calm the itch:
Cold compress: Applying a cold, damp cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a towel to the affected area can reduce swelling and numb the itch. Hold it on the bite for 10-15 minutes as needed throughout the day.
Baking soda paste: Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water to create a paste. Apply it to the bites and leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing off. Baking soda’s alkaline properties help neutralise the skin’s pH and reduce irritation.
Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel, freshly extracted from a plant or store-bought, can soothe itching and promote healing. Its natural anti-inflammatory and moisturising properties make it an excellent remedy for irritated skin.
Honey: Raw honey is a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory. Dab a small amount onto the bites to reduce swelling and prevent infections.
Keep your skin protected
If you’ve already been bitten, protecting your skin can prevent further irritation or infection. Here’s what you can do:
Use calamine lotion or over-the-counter creams
Calamine lotion and hydrocortisone creams are budget-friendly options that can reduce itching and inflammation. They’re widely available and safe for most people.
Try natural essential oils
Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or chamomile have soothing and antimicrobial properties. Dilute a few drops with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) and apply to the bites.
These oils can also deter bed bugs due to their strong scents. For example one could try The Aromatic Apothecary Bugs Away spray repellent is based on a carefully formulated blend of geranium, citronella, lemongrass and lavender that is safe to use on the body and surrounds.
Prevent future bites
Managing bed bug bites is only part of the solution — you also need to prevent them. Here’s how:
Wash and heat-treat your bedding: Bed bugs often hide in mattresses, pillows, and sheets. Wash your bedding regularly in hot water and tumble dry on high heat to kill any pests.
Declutter your space: Bed bugs thrive in cluttered environments where they can hide. Keep your bedroom clean and minimise piles of clothing, books, and other items near your bed.
Natural bed bug deterrents
Essential oil sprays: Create a homemade bed bug spray using a mix of water and essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or peppermint. Spray it on your mattress, headboard, and surrounding areas to deter the pests.
Double-sided tape: Wrap double-sided tape around the legs of your bed to trap bed bugs trying to climb up. It’s a cost-effective and chemical-free method to monitor and reduce their movement.
Protect yourself while travelling: Bed bugs are notorious for hitchhiking on luggage, clothing, and other items.
Here’s how to minimise the risk:
- Inspect hotel beds and furniture for signs of bed bugs (small, rust-coloured stains or live bugs).
- Keep your luggage elevated on a rack, away from the bed or floor.
- Wash your clothes in hot water immediately after returning home to kill any potential stowaways.
As Doryce Sher, pharmacist and aromatherapist, advises, addressing bites quickly and avoiding scratching is key to healing.
“Natural solutions, like essential oils and soothing gels, not only calm the skin but also prevent infections, which are a risk when scratching inflames the bites.”