Bed Bug Inspection: Key Signs And Tips

Investing time and effort in a bed bug inspection is always a good idea, and spotting them is easier when you know their signs, such as blood stains, feces, nests, shed skin, and vile bites.

If there is any reason to suspect the presence of bed bugs in your home, read this guide and clear up all the doubts about these pests, from how to spot them to how big they are. Become an expert in bed bug awareness! 

What Are The Signs Of Bed Bugs At Home?

Unexplained bites, blood stains, and a musty odor are some of the most common signs these tiny, bloodthirsty pests are infiltrating your home without an invitation, and detecting their presence is vital to preventing a full-blown infestation.

Unexplained Bites

Waking up with itchy, red bites (picture) in clusters is a classic sign of bed bugs. These bites are often arranged in a linear or zigzag pattern and can become inflamed and uncomfortable over time.

And bed bug bites are not the same as hives because hives are generally more random in their appearance and can be caused by various triggers, including allergies and stress. Anyway, if you are unsure, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Blood Stains

You may notice small bed bug blood stains on your sheets or pillowcases. These stains are caused by bed bugs being accidentally crushed during sleep, leaving behind traces of blood. Keep an eye out for this clue!

Rusty Or Dark Stains

Bed bug feces are tiny and dark specks frequently left behind by the insects and usually found on bedding, especially near the bug's hiding spots. If you see early bed bug stains on sheets, that is a clear indicator of bed bug activity.

Musty Odor

Bed bugs emit a distinct, sweet, and musty odor, often likened to overripe or rotten fruits like raspberries. This odor becomes more pronounced in areas with a substantial bed bug population and can be a key warning sign.

Visible Bed Bugs

Live bed bugs are rarely spotted, but… You know, right? They are flat and reddish-brown insects with six legs and an antennae, more or less like the picture below.

Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed, which makes them visible to the naked eye, and there is no kind of black bed bugs: If you find black bugs, they are not likely to be the bed ones.

Eggshells

Bed bug eggs are tiny and translucent, measuring about 1 mm in length. They are often clustered in groups, and you might find them near their hiding spots, such as seams and crevices. 

Shed Skin

Bed bugs shed their skin as they grow. In fact, they shed their exoskeletons, to be more accurate. These discarded skins are pale and papery, resembling the shape of a bed bug, and finding them is a strong indication of an active infestation.

Bed Bug Hiding Spots

The bed bug nests are usually in mattresses, couches, wallpapers, curtains, or similar, and the bugs themselves seek refuge in cracks, crevices, and folds of mattresses, box springs, and furniture. They are also known to hide behind baseboards and electrical outlets.

How To Check For Bed Bugs On Your Couch?

Start by carefully inspecting the seams and folds of the couch using a flashlight and looking for the signs. Pay close attention to any dark or rusty stains on the upholstery, and remove the cushions if you suspect infestation.

Inspect the frame and underneath the couch as well. Vacuum the couch thoroughly, including all seams and crevices, and, to prevent future infestations, consider using bed bug-proof encasements on your couch cushions.

How Big Is A Bed Bug?

The size of a bed bug is similar to an apple seed. They typically measure 4-5 mm in length and 1.5-3 mm in width. That is why those bugs can easily hide in the smallest cracks – which makes them a challenge to detect and eradicate, also making it worth paying a contractor for the job.

How Much Does A Bed Bug Inspection Cost?

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $ 50 to $ 200 or more for an inspection. Some pest control companies may offer free inspections, especially if they end up providing treatment services.

Ask for the prizes charged by multiple reputable pest control companies in your area to get a more accurate estimate for your specific situation or call Wisercosts' home security services to sleep soundly without worrying about unwanted bed bug guests.

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