Don’t Let The Bed Bugs Bite! How To Spot A Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bugs are one of the most disgusting pests that can infest your home. These tiny insects lurk in the crevices of mattresses, hiding during the day and coming out at night to feed on their prey: you. A bed bug infestation can cause itchy bites, skin reactions, and sleepless nights. Worse yet, an infestation can spread quickly, and getting rid of bed bugs can be tough. Knowing how to spot bed bugs early on can help you prevent a full-blown infestation. In this post, we’ll go over signs of a bed bug infestation and what to do if you find these pests in your home.

Look for the Signs

The first step in identifying a bed bug infestation is to look for the signs. Bed bugs are incredibly small, flat, and hard to spot. They’re usually no more than 5mm in length, and their bodies are reddish-brown in color. Bed bugs leave several signs of their presence. The most common signs include tiny black dots on your sheets, mattresses, and walls and itchy bites on your skin. You may also see discarded skins or shells, tiny white eggs, or rust-colored stains on your bedding.

Inspect Your Bed

Bed bugs are most often found in and around your bed since they feed on your blood while you sleep. Start by inspecting your mattress and box spring. Look for any signs of bed bugs in the crevices, seams, and folds of your bedding. Check the headboard and frame of your bed as well since bed bugs can also hide in those areas. Use a flashlight to help you spot any signs of the tiny insects.

Check the Furniture

Bed bugs can often spread to other areas of your home, so check any nearby furniture, such as chairs, sofas, and even luggage. Look for signs of bed bugs, like tiny black dots or specks. Remember to look underneath the furniture, too! Bed bugs can hide out of sight under corners or on the back sides of furniture. Move your furniture away from the walls to give you a better view.

Call an Exterminator

If you are not sure whether you have bed bugs or if you found evidence of a bed bug infestation, contact a professional exterminator, like those at Area Wide Exterminators. An exterminator can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and ideas on what to do about an infestation. In addition, a professional exterminator can use non-toxic and safe treatments that can get rid of bed bugs quickly.

Prevention Tips

The best way to avoid a bed bug infestation is to prevent it in the first place. Regularly clean and vacuum your home, especially in areas where bed bugs may hide, such as the bedroom, living room, and furniture. When traveling, check your luggage before leaving your hotel room, and keep your luggage off the floor. When purchasing used furniture, thoroughly inspect it and consider having an exterminator treat the piece before bringing it into your home.

Bed bugs are a frustrating pest to deal with, but you don't have to let them take over your home. By knowing how to identify signs of an infestation early on, you can take steps to rid your home of these parasites by calling a professional exterminator, cleaning regularly, and practicing prevention. Remember, the earlier you catch an infestation, the easier it is to get rid of the bugs. Happy snoozing, bed bug-free!