Recognizing The Signs Of Bed Bugs

Have you woken up with new, itchy, red bumps on your body? Worried you might have bed bugs? Here are the signs of a bed bug infestation and what steps you should take next.

How Can I Tell If I Have Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are nocturnal insects that hide in cracks and crevices found anywhere near where humans sleep. They can been seen with the naked eye, but because they only come out at night and are great at hiding, it can be difficult to spot them. There are some clear signs that indicate that you might have bed bugs. If you see any bed bugs or recognize any of the signs listed below, call Pest Control Experts today to schedule a home inspection. Bed bug infestations can be difficult to treat if left for too long.

Where Should I Check For Bed Bugs?

Because bed bugs feed on humans while at rest, the best place to look for bed bugs is where humans sleep. Check for signs around boxsprings, mattresses, bed frames, tufts, folds and buttons on mattresses. They may also hide in cracks in your walls, wall paneling or behind peeling wallpaper. Check in other furnishings around your bedroom such as clocks, mirrors, desks, chairs and picture frames, under the edge of your carpeting or in any cracks in the floor or floorboards.

Telltale Signs of Bed Bugs

While you can’t necessarily see bed bugs during the daytime, they do leave behind clues that can help you detect whether or not you have an infestation. When looking in all the places listed above, check for spots and smears. Bed bugs often leave behind fecal spots which consist of dried blood while they are feeding. These look like dark reddish or dark brown spots or stains on sheets, pillowcases, mattresses and mattress seams. You may also find discarded exoskeletons or cast skins that bed bugs have left behind as part of their maturation process. As bed bugs grow larger, they leave behind empty shells or skins as they grow out of one life-stage and into the next.

If I’ve Found One Bed Bug Do I Definitely Have an Infestation?

Bed bugs commonly stick together in groups in out-of-the way areas of your home or apartment or any other place that people may sleep such as hotel rooms, train cars and buses. Some bed bugs will live by themselves away from an infestation, however, so it’s not always easy to tell what is really going on if you wake up with bed bug bites. It’s always best to consult a professional and knowledgeable pest control expert to truly identify a bed bug infestation.

When Should I Call Pest Control for Bed Bugs?

If you find small stains, cast skins, or bed bugs themselves, stop your inspection and begin control activity. Once bed bugs are disturbed they will move from their hiding place and find somewhere else to remain undetected making the whole process that much harder. Any inspections you conduct after you initially find the signs of bed bugs should be accompanied by control measures. Since bed bug infestations are notoriously difficult to control, your best course of action is to call a knowledgeable pest control professional right away. Doing inspections and control correctly from the outset can save you a lot of money and, more importantly, can save you from a lot of mental anguish. 

Call Pest Control Experts today to get a free quote and to schedule your home pest inspection as soon as possible!