From time to time, we read something that makes us want to rush home and throw something out. Today, it happened and what we’re throwing out is all of our black and red bed sheets.
That’s because a new study has pinpointed those colours as the ones that bed bugs are most attracted to.
According to Net Doctor, researchers at the University of Florida and Union College did an experiment to find out which colours were preferred by the critters.
The experts gave the bed bugs 10 minutes to find a hiding spot within a petri dish with little bits of coloured material.
It was found that they were attracted to black and red, avoiding colours such as green and yellow.
Dr. Corraine McNeill, who was involved in the study, explained that the most likely reason for this is that bed bugs are red and they exist in groups hence why they prefer this colour.
She said: “I always joke with people, ‘Make sure you get yellow sheets!’ But to be very honest, I think that would be stretching the results a little too much.”
In other words, don’t go burning your sheets or changing your colour scheme based on this study. But maybe do follow these quick tips:
- Inspect your bed and bedclothes regularly.
- Wash your sheets at 40 degrees or over.
- Change your bedclothes every week.
- Vacuum your bed and the surrounding area frequently.
- Keep the area surrounding your bed free from clutter.
- Check beds when travelling and don’t leave suitcases on the bed.
- Keep holiday clothes separate from other washing.
