How can I check if I have bedbugs? - briefly
Inspect mattress seams, box‑spring folds, headboard joints, and nearby furniture for live reddish‑brown insects about 5 mm long, as well as dark fecal spots, tiny shed skins, or tiny yellowish eggs. Use a bright flashlight to examine cracks and set disposable interceptor traps beneath the bed; finding any of these signs confirms an infestation.
How can I check if I have bedbugs? - in detail
Bedbugs leave distinct evidence that can be identified through a systematic inspection of sleeping areas and adjacent spaces.
Begin with the mattress and box spring. Remove all bedding and examine the seams, folds, and tags for tiny, rust‑colored spots (fecal stains) or small, translucent shells. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying glass to spot live insects, which are about the size of an apple seed and reddish‑brown after feeding.
Inspect the headboard, bed frame, and any nearby furniture. Look for live bugs, shed skins, or dark spots where insects have been crushed. Pay particular attention to cracks, joints, and upholstered cushions, as these provide hiding places.
Check the walls and baseboards. Bedbugs may hide behind wallpaper, picture frames, or electrical outlets. Small, round eggs are about 0.5 mm and may appear as white specks.
Examine personal belongings that spend time on the bed, such as clothing, backpacks, and luggage. Place items in a sealed plastic bag and shake them over a white sheet; any falling insects will be visible.
If visual clues are ambiguous, set up passive traps. Commercial interceptors or simple double‑sided tape placed under bed legs capture wandering bugs. Replace traps weekly and record any captures.
When uncertainty remains, enlist a professional pest‑control service. Certified inspectors use trained detection dogs or specialized equipment to locate infestations that are not apparent to the naked eye.
Document findings with photographs and notes on location and quantity. This record assists in determining the severity of the problem and guides treatment decisions.
Regular monitoring after treatment is essential. Repeat the inspection process weekly for at least one month, as bedbugs can survive several months without feeding. Early detection prevents the spread to other rooms or neighboring units.