Bed bugs are oval-shaped, typically nocturnal pests that feed on human blood. They have a reddish-brown color and are roughly the same size as an apple seed, which makes them easy to miss. These pests are often found in box springs, mattresses, and headboards but can also hide in furniture crevices and baseboards.
Though they don’t carry diseases, bed bugs bring plenty of problems. Their bites are itchy and irritating, often leaving small red marks on the skin. For many, it’s not just the physical discomfort but the stress and frustration that make these pests such a nightmare. At first glance, you might believe these pests are beetle bugs, but there is a clear difference between the two. Carpet beetles and bed bugs differ significantly in terms of behavior and appearance. While carpet beetles feed on organic materials like fabrics, bed bugs thrive on human blood.
They spread fast and are excellent hitchhikers, latching onto luggage or furniture. If ignored, a small presence can quickly grow into a bigger one.
In this blog, we’ll explore the early signs of bed bugs and how to recognize a potential infestation. Let’s dive in!
5 Early Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
Identifying bed bugs early on can help you avoid the hassle of managing a significant infestation. Here is some common evidence of bed bugs to watch for.
1. Bites and Skin Reactions
Bed bug bites commonly appear as tiny, red, and itchy welts, usually found in groups or lines on exposed skin areas. You can notice these marks on the arms, neck, and legs. Unlike mosquito or flea bites, bed bug bites often lack a central puncture mark.
2. Blood Stains on Bedding
Another common sign of bed bugs on a bed or mattress is finding small, rust-colored stains. These spots are usually caused by crushed bugs or blood that seeps out after they feed. You might notice these stains near pillowcases, corners of mattresses, or in areas where bed bugs hide.
3. Dark Spots on Sheets or Furniture
Dark spots, often mistaken for dirt, could be bed bug feces. These tiny droppings are usually black or dark brown and can smear when touched. You’ll often find them along mattress seams, fabric folds, or furniture crevices.
4. Shed Skins and Eggshells
As bed bugs grow, they shed their outer shells. These pale yellow, translucent skins can often be found near their hiding spots. Similarly, their tiny white eggs or eggshells are often left behind in cracks, crevices, or fabric folds.
5. Musty Odor
A heavy infestation may give off a distinctive, musty odor. This sweet yet unpleasant smell comes from the bugs’ scent glands.
Where to Find Bed Bugs: 4 Common Spots Where They Hide
Bed bugs are expert hiders, often evading detection until the infestation becomes more widespread. Knowing where to look is key to finding them early. These pests tend to settle near their food source, meaning they often hide close to where you sleep or rest. Below are the primary areas to inspect:
1. In and Around the Bed
The bed is the first place to check when you suspect bed bugs. Begin with the mattress seams and look for small dark spots, shed skins, or eggshells. Pay attention to the folds, edges, and corners of the mattress. Next, inspect the box spring, especially underneath it, as bed bugs often hide in this area. Bed frames and headboards are also common hiding spots. Use a flashlight to check the joints and cracks where bugs might be hiding.
2. Furniture
Bed bugs don’t just stop at beds. They often make their way to sofas, chairs, and cushions. Look along the seams and under the cushions. Pay close attention to any tears, cracks, or worn-out areas where they could hide.
3. Wall and Floor Crevices
Where do bed bugs hide if they aren’t in your furniture? Bed bugs are small and easily fit into tiny spaces. Cracks in walls, baseboards, and gaps between the floor and wall are also ideal hiding spots. You can also find them behind electrical outlets, picture frames, or loose wallpaper edges. A thorough check of these areas can help uncover their presence.
4. Luggage and Personal Items
Travel often brings unexpected guests like bed bugs. They can latch onto suitcases, backpacks, or clothing. After a trip, check your luggage’s zippers, seams, and linings. Even items stored near infested areas can harbor bed bugs.
How To Check for a Bed Bug Infestation
Bed bugs are tiny, sneaky, and persistent, which makes finding them a challenge. The good news? A few smart strategies can help you uncover their hiding spots. Whether you’re using tools or professional help, here’s how to check for bed bugs:
Grab a Flashlight and Magnifying Glass: If you’re wondering how to tell if you have bed bugs, your best bet is a flashlight and magnifying glass. Shine the flashlight into the seams of your mattress, bed frames, or furniture cracks. Bed bugs are small, and their eggs are even tinier. A magnifying glass can help you spot those tiny eggs that are otherwise easy to miss.
Use DIY Tools:If you don’t see bed bugs but suspect their presence, try using traps or interceptors. Place interceptors under bedposts, where they’ll catch bed bugs moving between the bed and the floor. Sticky traps are another tool for checking furniture or baseboards.
Bring in the Pros When Needed: How do you really know you have bed bugs? Unfortunately, you can’t always tell. Sometimes, bed bugs can stay hidden no matter how hard you search. Pest control experts use advanced tools to find what you might not be able to spot on your own. If you’re unsure or if the infestation seems widespread, calling in an expert can save time and hassle. It’s important to address the problem early, as bed bugs can spread quickly once they find new hiding spots. A professional service provider like Preventive Pest Control can help you seal cracks, improve sanitation, and use preventive treatments to stop future infestations. In addition to our subscription plans, we also provide regular follow-ups or maintenance treatments, especially if you’re in an area prone to bed bugs.
Sniff Out Unusual Odors: If you notice a sweet, musty odor, it could indicate a bed bug infestation. This scent usually appears in severe cases, so it’s worth paying attention to.
Cover Your Mattress: Investing in bed bug-proof mattress covers is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent an infestation. These covers create a barrier that traps any existing bed bugs inside while also preventing new ones from getting in, making them a great long-term protective measure.
Immediate Steps if Bed Bugs Are Spotted
Discovering bed bugs in your home can be a stressful experience. However, taking immediate action is essential to prevent the infestation from spreading. Here’s what to do if you find bed bugs:
Contain the Infestation
Once you spot signs of bed bugs, the first step is to contain them. If you notice the early signs of bed bugs on mattresses or other furniture, isolate the affected items. Begin by placing bedding, clothing, and furniture that might be infested into sealed plastic bags. This helps prevent the bugs from moving to other areas. Be sure not to shake these items out, which can cause the bed bugs to scatter. Instead, gently fold and bag them.
You can also place bed bug interceptors under the legs of your bed or furniture. These traps can catch bed bugs moving to and from your bed.
Clean and Vacuum Thoroughly
Now that you know how to look for bed bugs, it’s time to clean and vacuum the area. This is one of the most effective methods to reduce bed bug infestation. Vacuum mattress seams, box springs, baseboards, and cracks where bed bugs are likely to hide. Also, pay close attention to upholstered furniture and furniture joints.
Once you’ve finished vacuuming, immediately discard the vacuum bag outside your home in a sealed plastic bag. This prevents the bed bugs from re-entering your home. After vacuuming, wipe down surfaces with a mild cleaning solution to ensure no remaining eggs or bed bugs are present.
Wash and Dry Fabrics at High Heat
One of the best ways to kill bed bugs is to wash fabrics at high temperatures. Start by washing your bedding, clothes, and any washable fabrics that may be affected. Finding bed bugs in your linens can be tricky, but washing them at temperatures of at least 120°F will eliminate them and their eggs.
After washing, dry the fabrics on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes. Bed bugs cannot survive this heat, so this step prevents them from returning. Once your items are dry, inspect them carefully to ensure no bed bugs remain.
Call a Professional
While these immediate steps will help contain the infestation, remember that finding and handling bed bugs on your own can be challenging, especially with a larger infestation. If the problem persists or if you’re unsure, it’s time to call a pest control professional. They have the tools and expertise to eliminate the infestation and fully prevent future problems.
When to Seek Professional Help
Dealing with bed bugs can be extremely frustrating, especially when DIY methods aren’t producing the required results. If you’ve already tried home remedies and are still finding signs of pests, it’s time to call a professional. A large or persistent infestation may require expertise and specialized treatments. If you’ve learned how to search for bed bugs but can’t locate them even after thorough checks, it may indicate that the infestation is more severe than initially thought.
Pest control experts like Preventive Pest Control will conduct a thorough inspection and treatment process to eliminate the infestation. We use heat treatments, chemical pesticides, or vacuum-assisted removal to address the problem. The process may take a few visits, but our professionals will ensure the infestation is completely eradicated, offering long-term solutions and advice on preventing future issues.
Be proactive in keeping your home safe. Whether you use interceptors, clean fabrics, or call in professionals, each step helps. The quicker you act, the better you’ll prevent a larger issue. Stay vigilant, and you’ll be better equipped to handle any bed bug problems that come your way.
Are you looking for extra peace of mind? Consider Preventive Pest Control in Southern California to stop future infestations. Get in touch with us to schedule an inspection and keep your home safe from bed bugs year-round.