Quick Identification Guide: Do You Have Bed Bugs?

Bed Bugs must be identified by their physical presence. We must have a 100% positive ID on these bugs before we will treat. The only criteria we can use to know with certainty that you are in fact dealing with bed bugs is to perform a physical inspection.

Check for Physical Signs

• Bites on Skin: Bed bug bites typically appear as small, red, itchy welts. They are often found in a line or cluster and commonly appear on exposed skin areas such as the arms, neck, face, and legs.
• Reddish Stains on Sheets: Small blood stains on sheets, pillowcases, or mattresses can be a sign of bed bugs. These stains may occur from crushed bugs after feeding.

Look for Bed Bugs or Evidence of Their Presence

• Visual Inspection: Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects, about the size of an apple seed (5-7 mm). They have flat, oval bodies and are usually more active at night.
• Bed Bug Exoskeletons: As bed bugs grow, they shed their skin. Look for these exoskeletons, which appear as translucent, empty shells, around the seams of mattresses, bed frames, and other hiding spots.
• Eggs and Eggshells: Bed bug eggs are tiny, white, and oval-shaped. They are usually found in clusters and are sticky, often adhering to surfaces.
• Dark Spots or Fecal Stains: Bed bug excrement leaves small, dark spots or smears on mattresses, sheets, and walls. These spots are digested blood and may bleed into the fabric like ink.

Inspect Common Hiding Places

• Mattresses and Box Springs: Check along the seams, piping, and tags of mattresses and box springs. Bed bugs also hide in the cracks and crevices of bed frames and headboards.
• Furniture: Inspect upholstered furniture, especially along seams and under cushions.
• Wall and Floor Junctions: Bed bugs can hide in cracks in walls, behind baseboards, under wallpaper, and inside electrical outlets.

Differentiate from Other Pests

• Fleas: Fleas are smaller, dark brown, and have long hind legs for jumping. They are often found on pets and tend to bite lower on the body.
• Mites: Mites are tiny and usually require magnification to be seen. They cause general itching rather than specific bite marks.
• Carpet Beetles: Carpet beetles are often mistaken for bed bugs. They are small, round, and can be various colors. They do not bite but can cause skin irritation.