Are you waking up with itchy areas on your skin that were not there the night before? If so, you could have a bed bug infestation. Commonly mistaken for mosquito bites, especially in the summer months, bed bugs are often hard to spot unless you look closely at your bed sheets. Knowing the key signs of an infestation can help you address the problem early and protect your home.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood. They are nocturnal and typically hide in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas, such as mattresses and bed frames. Despite their small size, they can cause significant discomfort with their bites, leading to itching and sleepless nights.
What Are the Signs of Bed Bug Infestation?
Here are the three signs to look for that could indicate that you have bed bugs:
1. Small Bloodstains on Your Sheets or Pillowcases
Bed bugs feed by attaching to exposed skin, sucking the host’s blood for 3-10 minutes before detaching. It is in the detachment that small droplets of blood may fall on the bed sheets or pillowcases. They will be very tiny, like small red pinpricks, but if you notice them, then you could be dealing with bed bugs.
2. Dark-Colored Excrement
This is usually the first sign people see. Bed bugs leave a nasty trail of poop behind, and these can easily be spotted on light-colored sheets, clothes, or walls. Also, look for eggshells or shredded skins.
3. Musty Odor
Bed bugs emit a musty or mothball-like smell from their scent glands. Depending on the size of the infestation, the smell could be subtle or very pungent.
Good to Know
Bed bugs can live for a year without feeding, so an infestation can pop back up well after you think it's gone.
What How Do I Get Rid Of Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are highly resilient and can live for up to a year without feeding. If you suspect an infestation, follow these steps to address the problem:
- Remove and Inspect Bedding and Clothing: Take all bedding and clothing from the infested area. Wash them in hot water and dry them on the highest setting.
- Treat Non-washable Items: For items that can’t be washed, such as shoes or stuffed animals, place them in the dryer in the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes.
- Clean Your Mattress and Furniture:
- Scrub mattress seams with a stiff brush.
- Vacuum your mattress and couch thoroughly.
- Dispose of the vacuum contents in a sealed trash can outside.
- Protect Your Mattress: Encase your mattress with a zippered cover to trap any remaining bed bugs. Keep the cover on for at least a year to ensure any leftover bugs are contained.
- Call a Professional: If you’re still unsure how to deal with bed bugs, call a licensed exterminator or pest control expert to come and evaluate the situation.
Tackle Your Bed Bug Infestation with At Home Pros
Getting rid of bed bugs can be both time-consuming and frustrating, which is why using a licensed pest control company like At Home Pros’ recommended servicer, Terminix Pest Control , can be the best route to use. They can quickly exterminate the bed bugs and help you take your space back. They have the expertise to address bed bug problems efficiently and effectively so you don’t have to lose sleep over bed bugs in your home.
Learn how much you should be paying for pest control near you. 