How to Identify a Bed Bug Problem

Bed bugs are small, flat insects that hide close to where people rest. They are skilled hitchhikers and can be brought into a home on luggage, used furniture, clothing or bags. Because they hide so well, identifying a bed bug problem means knowing exactly what to look for.

What bed bugs look like

Adult bed bugs are small, oval and reddish-brown, roughly the size of an apple seed. They are flat when unfed and become rounder and redder after feeding. Young bed bugs are smaller and paler, which can make them harder to see. Eggs are tiny, pale and often found in clusters in crevices.

Common signs of bed bugs

Small rust-colored or dark spots

Look for small dark or rust-colored spots on sheets, mattress seams, pillowcases and box springs. These marks are among the most commonly reported signs.

Shed skins and eggs

As bed bugs grow they shed their skins, leaving pale, empty shells. You may also find tiny eggs or eggshells tucked into seams and crevices.

Live bugs

Checking mattress seams, piping, tags, bed frame joints and headboards with a flashlight may reveal live bugs.

Bites

Many people first suspect bed bugs after noticing bites. However, bites alone are not a reliable way to identify bed bugs — people react differently and other insects can cause similar marks. For any health concern, speak with a medical professional.

Where to look

• Mattress seams, piping and tags
• Box spring fabric and corners
• Bed frame joints and headboards
• Nightstands and drawer seams
• Upholstered chairs and couch cushions
• Baseboards and outlet covers near beds
• Luggage and bags after travel

What not to do

• Don't move furniture or mattresses into other rooms — this can spread activity
• Don't throw items onto the curb without wrapping them, which can spread bed bugs to others
• Avoid improvised treatments that may be unsafe or ineffective

What you can do now

• Wash and dry bedding using the hottest settings recommended for the fabric
• Reduce clutter around sleeping areas
• Vacuum seams and crevices and empty the vacuum outside promptly
• Inspect luggage after travel and keep it off the bed

How a bed bug inspection helps

A professional inspection focuses on sleeping and seating areas, furniture seams and nearby cracks and crevices. Treatment depends on what's found and the layout of the home. Preparation instructions provided by your technician are important — following them helps the service work as intended. See what happens during a pest inspection.

Libra Pest Services offers dedicated bed bug extermination. One customer who received bed bug service summed it up simply: "Great guy! Gets the job done, tells you how it is."

Key takeaways

• Spots on bedding, shed skins, eggs and live bugs are the clearest signs
• Bites alone don't confirm bed bugs
• Don't spread activity by moving items between rooms
• Call (347) 586-2463 for a free estimate on bed bug service