Bed bugs are small, flat, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood. They're notorious for hiding in the smallest cracks and crevices during the day, making them challenging to spot. However, knowing what to look for can help you catch an infestation early, when it's easier and less expensive to treat.
What Bed Bugs Look Like
Proper identification is the first step to effective treatment. Here's what to look for:
Adult Bed Bugs
- Size: About 4—5 mm long (roughly the size of an apple seed)
- Shape: Oval and flat when unfed, more swollen after feeding
- Color: Reddish-brown, becoming darker red after feeding
- Features: Six legs, antennae, and a distinctive tear-drop shape
Nymphs (Young Bed Bugs)
- Size: 1-4 mm long
- Color: Translucent to pale yellow
- Visibility: Much harder to see than adults, especially before feeding
Bed Bug Eggs
- Size: About 1 mm (size of a pinhead)
- Color: White or pearl-colored
- Location: Often found tucked into mattress seams, furniture joints, and cracks
💡 Pro Tip
Use a flashlight and magnifying glass for the best inspection results. Bed bugs are most active at night, but evidence of their presence can be found during daytime inspections.
Common Signs of Bed Bug Infestation
Even if you don't see live bugs, several telltale signs can indicate their presence:
Physical Evidence
- Blood stains: Small rust-colored spots on sheets, pillowcases, or mattresses
- Fecal spots: Dark or black spots about the size of a period on bedding and furniture
- Shed skins: As nymphs grow, they leave behind translucent shell casings
- Eggshells: Tiny white shells in mattress seams and furniture joints
Bites and Symptoms
- Bite patterns: Often appear in lines or clusters on exposed skin
- Common locations: Arms, legs, face, neck, and shoulders
- Timing: Bites are usually discovered upon waking
- Important note: Not everyone reacts to bed bug bites, and reactions vary widely
Odors
In heavy infestations, you may notice a sweet, musty odor in the affected room. This scent comes from the bugs' pheromones and is more noticeable in severe cases.
Where Bed Bugs Hide
Knowing where to look is crucial for effective detection:
Primary Hiding Spots
- Mattresses: Seams, tags, and piping along the head of the bed
- Box springs: Underneath, especially at the head of the bed
- Bed frames: Joints, screw holes, and crevices
- Headboards: Behind and between the wall connection
Secondary Locations
- Nightstands and nearby furniture
- Baseboards and carpet edges
- Picture frames and wall hangings
- Electrical outlets near sleeping areas
- Curtains and window treatments
DIY Inspection Checklist
Follow this step-by-step process for a thorough inspection:
- Strip the bed: Remove all bedding and examine sheets for blood stains or dark spots
- Inspect the mattress: Use a flashlight to check all seams, tags, and the head of the mattress
- Check the box spring: Look underneath, especially along the head of the bed
- Examine the bed frame: Check joints, screw holes, and any crevices
- Look at nearby furniture: Inspect items within 6-8 feet of the sleeping area
- Check walls and floors: Look along baseboards and behind picture frames
- Monitor overnight: Consider placing bed bug interceptor cups under bed legs
When to Call a Professional
While early detection is valuable, there are clear signs that indicate you need professional help immediately:
- You find live bed bugs during your inspection
- You discover shed skins or eggs in multiple locations
- The infestation appears to be spreading to other rooms
- You're experiencing multiple bite incidents
- DIY monitoring reveals ongoing activity
"Early professional intervention is significantly cheaper and more effective than delayed DIY attempts. The faster you act, the easier it is to eliminate the problem completely."
Quick Prevention Tips Before Treatment
If you suspect bed bugs, take these immediate steps to prevent spread:
- Avoid moving items: Don't relocate infested furniture or bedding to other rooms
- Contain clothing: Store clean clothes in sealed plastic bags
- Wash bedding: Use hot water (120°F+) and high heat in the dryer
- Vacuum carefully: Use a strong suction around bed areas, then dispose of the bag immediately
- Document everything: Take photos of evidence for professional consultation
What to Expect During Professional Inspection
A trained CleanSure technician will perform a comprehensive assessment that includes:
- Thorough visual inspection using specialized tools
- Detection methods including monitors and trained observation
- Assessment of infestation level and spread
- Customized treatment plan including chemical-free heat options
- Clear timeline and guarantee information
- Prevention education and follow-up planning