Our Bed Bug Story: Treatments, Advice, Prevention, Financial Cost & Mental Toll

The Irish Podcast

Tune in to The Irish Podcast as Jane and Cormac navigate a bed bug infestation, offering both a cautionary tale and practical advice for anyone facing similar challenges.

In this gripping episode, Jane and Cormac share how they initially discovered bed bugs, mistaking them for harmless critters until a closer examination revealed the truth. From finding them predominantly in one room of their apartment to setting up makeshift traps to monitor their activity, every detail of their discovery sends shivers down the spine.

But the horrors didn't end there. Armed with newfound knowledge about the life cycle and habits of bedbugs, the couple embarked on their first extermination attempt. They spared no expense, throwing out bed frames, mattresses, and even wicker furniture, and calling in the highest-rated fumigator in Florence. However, as they soon discovered, battling bed bugs is no easy feat, and mistakes were made along the way.

Learn from Jane and Cormac's missteps as they candidly discuss the errors they made during their de-infestation attempts, from moving their sleeping arrangements to underestimating the extent of the infestation. They share valuable insights into what needs to be thrown out and what could have been saved, providing listeners with crucial information and products for their own bed bug battles. This episode also deals with topics of mental health and PTSD.

In the midst of their bedbug saga, Jane and Cormac endured two more exterminations, each one accompanied by a glimmer of hope that the nightmare would finally be over. However, as the weeks dragged on and the pests persisted, they began to entertain the idea of a drastic solution: moving. Through diligent investigation and communication with neighbours, they uncovered that the infestation was stemming from another area of the building entirely. Their journey serves as a stark reminder that sometimes, the true source of a problem may lie beyond what meets the eye, emphasising the importance of thoroughness and perseverance in overcoming adversity.

LINKS

Our Exterminator: De.Di. Disinfestations https://www.dedidisinfestazioni.it/

Mattress Encasements: https://www.amazon.com/Queen-13-16-SureGuard-Mattress-Encasement/

No Rat Glue to make traps: https://www.lolloshop.net/prodotto/no-rat-kollant-colla-non-velenosa-per-topi-160gr/

Vacuum seal bags: https://www.amazon.com/Amazon-Basics-Vacuum-Compression-Storage/

CrossFire Pesticide: https://www.amazon.com/MGK-1852-Crossfire-Concentrate-Insecticide/dp/B01NAE47Q0

Reddit Bed Bugs Forum: https://www.reddit.com/r/Bedbugs/

Bed Bug Foundation: https://www.bedbugfoundation.org/

Guardian Article: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/oct/11/when-bedbugs-move-into-your-home-every-night-we-sleep-in-fear

FOLLOW US

Website: www.theirishpodcast.com

Instagram: @theirishpodcast

TikTok: @theirishpodcast

Youtube: /Altlivin or search the irish podcast

ABOUT SEASON TWO

Meet Jane and Cormac, your companions on a captivating journey through the highs and lows of embracing an Irish life in Italy. Join us as we unravel the tales of our relocation, navigating life as digital nomads and bartenders, and immersing ourselves in the daily hustle of a new country.

Prepare to venture into the heart of Tuscany with us, where we'll uncover the enchanting nuances and quirks that define Italy. From awe-inspiring landscapes to side-splitting misadventures, including our memorable 'Bed Bug' experience – a story that's not to be missed!

Take a special detour with us to the Edinburgh Fringe, where we'll regale you with our escapades and encounters in one of the world's most dynamic cultural festivals.

Whether you're a seasoned travel enthusiast or simply curious about the intricacies of relocating to a new land, our podcast offers you a front-row seat to a medley of stories, laughter, and the warm embrace of Irish hospitality. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and let us entertain you! 🌍✈️

ABOUT US

Cormac is a hospitality worker having worked in the hotel and bar industry for 10 years. Originally from Leitrim, he studied Hotel Management and Business at GMIT. He was working in Galway in the bar trade for 5 years before he decided to move abroad. His original plan was to work on a vineyard in Northern Italy using WWOOF.

Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net

Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)

Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 Week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:

• Naples
• Salerno
• Sorrento
• Rome
• Siena
• Florence
• La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
• Venice
• Desenzano del Garda
• Sirmione
• Malcesine
• Riva del Garda

Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.theirishpodcast.com/shop