4 Signs of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs have been around for a long time, but they disappeared for many years and only resurfaced about a decade ago. They are something of an epidemic for pest control in New Jersey. Bed bugs are notoriously hard to get rid of, in part because they multiply so quickly and are so difficult to find. In addition, bed bugs can live for a long time, even if they don’t have a human host to feed on.

If you are worried that you might have bed bugs, don’t panic. Instead, look for a few common signs and symptoms of a bed bug infestation. Once you have gathered enough evidence, you can determine how you want to proceed.

Blood Stains

If you are concerned that you may have bed bugs, put light colored sheets on your bed. When you wake up in the morning, carefully examine your sleeping surface. If you were bitten overnight, you should see small, rust-colored stains on your sheets. If you don’t see anything initially, make sure to keep looking over the course of several days to ensure that there isn’t an infestation.

A Bad Smell

Bed bugs release pheromones, and if there are a lot of them in a given space, they can cause a nasty odor. The smell is a combination of sweat and dirty laundry, so if you notice anything unusual, it is a good idea to take a close look at the mattress. Keep in mind that bed bugs can be anywhere, and it is not uncommon to find them in hotel rooms.

Bed Bug Bites

Bed bug bites are another sign that there is an issue. Keep in mind, though, that not everyone reacts to a bed bug bite, so you may not see any welts even if there is an infestation. Your bites may look different than someone else’s bites as well, even if you are both dealing with a bed bug problem.

Bed bug bites typically itch and usually pop up in groups of three. They are commonly located on the hands, feet, neck, back and chest.

It is difficult to tell whether a bite is from a bed bug or from another insect, like a mosquito or a flea. Therefore, the presence of bites alone is not enough to indicate a bed bug infestation. Look for some of the other signs as well before you jump to conclusions.

Fecal Matter

Bed bugs poop, too. If you look closely, you can find their fecal matter on your sheets. It has a brownish-red appearance, and if you wipe it with a wet cloth, it will smear. To find the poop, closely examine the seams and edges of the mattress and box spring.

If you believe you have a bed bug infestation, you don’t have to try and deal with the situation on your own. Instead, bring in a licensed pest control company to help you. Excel Termite and Pest Control will set up a free inspection for you. One of our licensed pest control technicians will look over your property and give you advice on how to proceed.

For more information regarding Bed Bugs red through our Bed Bugs FAQ page.