How to Look for Bed Bugs

Bed bugs recently have resurged into society. They were generally considered to be eradicated over the last 30 years but, due to greater amounts of travel, more hostel and hotel usage, and chemical bug treatments that are less harsh, they have crept back. The term bed bug is a misnomer; the insects can live in any location in a home where they are able to feed on blood. It is common, however, for bed bugs to reside in a bed, as they are able to feed on the sleeper all night.

Things You'll Need

• Magnifying glass (optional)

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Instructions

• 1

  Smell the room. If there is a large bed bug infestation, there will be an aroma similar to almonds or raspberries. This smell, however, may be too subtle to detect.

• 2

  Check for bed bugs near any place used for resting. This may be a bed or couch in the living room. On a bed, it is important to check the box spring, mattress and bed frame.

• 3

  Check for bed bugs near any place where luggage is set down. This may be where a backpack is kept when brought home each evening.

• 4

  Look for bed bugs in small creases, folds, cracks and under edges. They insects are very small, about the size of an apple seed.

• 5

  Identify any dark blood spots. These spots are left when the bed bugs are feeding.

• 6

  Identify any darker red or brown spots and smears. This is excrement the bed bugs left behind.

• 7

  Identify any light brown shells in the area. These are exoskeletons that the bugs shed as they grow.

• 8

  Treat any infestation immediately. Bed bugs will find a new location when exposed.