Bed bugs are one pest you don’t want hanging out in your home. They love warm environments and having easy access to blood meals. Unfortunately, your home checks these boxes. Identifying an infestation early will make it easier to control the situation. We’ve made a list of five signs that warn of a bed bug infestation.
1. Bed Bug Sightings
Spotting bed bugs is the most obvious sign of an infestation. These pests are about ¼ʺ and have a flat, oval body. They’re brown but have a reddish-hue after feeding. You are likely to see them on your mattress, bedding, headboard, and furniture near beds. Since they are small, these pests can hide in cracks and crevices.
2. Spots on Bedding & Furniture
If you crush a bed bug, a rusty or red bloodstain can be left behind. These are sometimes seen on light-colored sheets and bedding. You may also notice small brown or black spots on the mattress, bedding, walls, and furniture. These darker spots can be bed bug droppings.
3. Bed Bug Bites
When bed bugs feed on blood, they sometimes cause bite marks. These are red and can be itchy. Bed bugs bite at night, so any areas exposed while you sleep can have bites. The most common spots are your arms and legs. Bites usually appear in clusters, rows, or in a zig-zag pattern. While some people will have bite marks, not everyone has a reaction to the bite.
4. Unpleasant Odor
Bed bugs release pheromones that result in an unpleasant odor. It’s often described as a musty scent. This odor is more noticeable when dealing with a large infestation. Odor from bed bug droppings may also occur. If you notice an unusual odor, check for bed bugs or other signs of their presence.
5. Finding Bed Bug Eggs & Skin
When bed bugs grow, they shed their skin. Molted skin is lighter than a bed bug’s usual coloring and often has a golden tint. Their skin can be found in places bed bugs like to hide. You may also notice white specks on furniture, fabric, or your bed. These could be bed bug eggs. They are white and shaped like a grain of rice. Since they’re small, they can be more difficult to spot.
No one wants to have bed bugs for roommates. Knowing what to look for can make it easier to identify and eliminate an infestation. If you’re dealing with these pests, we have your back! Check out our Bed Bug Killer dust for an effective and long-lasting solution for bed bugs.