Warning Signs: How to Know if a Home Has Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are sneaky and nasty pests that feed on human blood. These tiny bugs are found even in the cleanest of homes. Though not known to spread any severe disease, bedbugs are a nuisance, and no homeowner wants to share the home space with these tiny critters. These small, uninvited guests are tough to detect and trickier to get rid of once they have made themselves comfortable in the home environment. Hiring a pest control service to treat the infestation is the only way to eliminate them.

It is easy for homeowners to confuse the bed bugs with other insects, and this is why most of them don’t realize their presence until the infestation becomes severe. Bed bugs are nocturnal pests, and during the day, they hide in bed frames, mattress and box springs, tiny cracks in the furniture, and upholstery. 

Here are some easy to recognize signs of the presence of bed bugs in the home for homeowners to watch out for and take preventative measures:

Small, itchy bite spots

A noticeable symptom of the bed bug problem is the presence of small, itchy, and red bites in a distinctive pattern on the neck, shoulder, arms, face, ankles, and back, where they mostly bite. As they are good at hiding, their bite marks on the skin can bring attention to their presence. However, several people show no reaction to the bed bug bites.

Musty odor

An unexplained, unfamiliar, musty, or damp smell in the room also indicates bed bug presence. These pests release scent trails or pheromones for communication, and the odor is very prominent when they are present in a large number. A strong smell indicates a much larger infestation.

Bloodstains on the sheets

Blood is the primary food source of bed bugs which attracts them to humans. Noticing blood stains on the bedsheet after waking up is a sign of bed bugs hidden under the mattress. These stains occur when a bed bug gets squashed accidentally. However, it is not considered a prominent sign, and homeowners should rely on other definitive signs.  

Rusty stains on the mattress

The presence of dark and small rusty spots and stains on sheets, mattresses, or other areas signifies that the home has bed bugs. The pests leave droppings or fecal stains, which are easily smeared when pressed or touched.

Eggs and shell casings

Bed bug eggs are small, white, and found in clusters. However, they are small, and it is not unusual for homeowners to miss them.

Bed bugs shed skin as they grow. Look out for reddish or brown-colored translucent material around their possible hiding areas.

Live bed bugs

One of the biggest and most obvious signs is spotting a bed bug. However, it is an indication of a severe infestation. It is tough to find them as they are very good at staying hidden. Homeowners can confuse bed bugs with various other insects, and it is better to call an expert for identifying a bed bug.

The possibility of a bed bug infestation increases for people who frequently stay at hotels, have neighbors and friends with an invasion, or have recently purchased a used mattress or second-hand furniture. 

Did you see any of these warning signs?

If you notice any sign of bed bug infestation in the house, get in touch with a pest control service immediately. These professionals will check the severity of the case and get rid of the problem as soon as possible.

San Tan Pest And Weed Control offer reliable pest control for residential and commercial customers in Mesa, Tempe, Ahwatukee, Phoenix, Lower Santan Village, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Gilbert, and Chandler. Our pest management services control scorpions, ants, termites, bees, wasps, fleas, rodents, cockroaches, weeds, and more. We provide attic and crawl space cleaning and home sealing services to keep pests out. Call us at (480)405-0690.