An infestation of bed bugs can quickly spiral out of control. Therefore, it is best to identify an infestation as soon as possible. Fortunately, there are ways you can check for signs of bed bugs in your apartment.
Physical Signs
One of the first steps you need to take is to look for physical signs of an infestation and before calling a bed bug exterminator. Keep your eyes peeled anytime you change and wash your bedding. Signs of an infestation include:
- Stains that are a reddish brown colour on your mattress or sheets (caused by bed bugs getting crushed as you roll around in your sleep)
- Dark stains on your mattress or sheets, which is bed bug feces (tends to bleed and cause stains to appear)
- Eggs found in the crevices of your mattress
- Yellow coloured skins shed by nymphs as they grow into adulthood (typically 1mm in length)
- Living bed bugs, typically the size of an apple seed (5-7mm), brown, oval-shaped, and flat
Where to Look
Just as their name suggests, bed bugs prefer to take up residence within the crevices of your mattress. However, that is not the only place where you would find bed bugs. Knowing where to look will help you identify an infestation quickly so you can stay ahead of the problem. Other places where bed bugs like to hide include:
- Among carpet fibres (especially thick, shaggier carpet)
- In couch and chair cushions
- The joints of dresser drawers
- Underneath loosened wallpaper
- In crevices, such as door jambs, and where the wall and ceiling meet
- In electrical outlets and appliances
- Within curtain folds
Make sure you check all of these hiding places thoroughly each time you clean your apartment. If you suspect that you have a problem but you are unsure, make sure you clean each room as very well. Vacuum frequently and empty the vacuum cleaner after each use. Also, make sure you wipe down surfaces and wash bedding often.
