Normally, the first indication is unexplained bug bites on a family member. During a through search of a room or structure bed bugs can be identified by various signs. Some of the most easily spotted signs are:
- Small brown or reddish spots on linens or mattress cover. The spots could be either droppings or blood spots from feeding.
- Small cast skin shells (called the excuvia) can been seen in the seams of furniture and hidden crevices.
- Beg bug bites can be identified on victims as being red, swollen, itchy welts. These bites are usually found in groups of 3 and could be mistaken for mosquito bites.
Where should I look for signs of an infestation?
When infestations are small, bed bugs like to stay in, around or near the bed, but as the infestation grows you can begin to see signs of bugs in other parts of the rooms as well. Here are some of the most common places where you might find bed bugs:
- Under seams, creases and folds of mattresses and box springs
- Inside cracks and seams of the bed frames and head board
- Under and inside chairs, couches, and other room furniture
- Between the folds of curtains
- Inside drawers
- Inside cracks in wall coverings and plaster
- Behind electric outlet plates
