Bed bugs
Even in the cleanest of properties bed bugs can survive. They are frequently brought back from overseas holidays, wrapped up in suitcases. They usually feed at night when people are asleep. During the day they hide in crevices in walls, headboards, behind wallpaper and pictures, where parts of a bed are joined together around slats, around the tufts of mattresses and in the bed clothes. They are brown and ovoid in shape. When full of blood the body becomes swollen and changes to dark red in colour.
Carpet beetles
Infestations of carpet beetles can originate from birds nests attached to the outside of houses. The larvae subsist on the nest lining and then manage to crawl into the loft of a house under the eaves. From here they can crawl into the house itself, frequently using the hot water system, as they seem to prefer warm conditions. Airing cupboards are a favourite place for an infestation.
To help prevent beetle infestation remove birds' nests from your house. Some carpet beetles seem to be becoming resistant to modern insecticides and can be difficult to eradicate.
Psocids
Psocids are common, harmless household pests that live in dry, powdery type foods. They do not like the light and prefer to live in dark, humid places such as the folds of packaging inside kitchen cupboards. In ideal conditions they can rapidly increase in number. They feed on microscopic moulds and mildews which can flourish there. Smaller than a pinhead, they live for about six months.
To avoid psocids keep your dry foodstuffs in a cool, dry, well ventilated place. Clean out cupboards regularly and make sure everything is completely dry before you put anything back. Keep the kitchen well ventilated, especially when cooking, using appliances or even just boiling the kettle. If condensation forms on windows or other surfaces you are encouraging mould growth on which these pests thrive.
To get rid of psocids throw away any foodstuffs and packaging affected. Treat the affected area with a good household insecticide, cleaning out the whole area and dry well. Foodstuffs in packets can be stored in jars, tins or other airtight containers. Inspect your food cupboards regularly and try to avoid condensation forming in the kitchen. Always store dry foods in a cool dry place.
