How can I see bedbugs on a bed? - briefly
Examine the mattress, box spring, and bedding under a bright light, concentrating on seams, folds, and stitching. Identify «bedbugs» by their flat, reddish‑brown bodies about 5 mm long, dark spots on the abdomen, and the presence of tiny white eggs.
How can I see bedbugs on a bed? - in detail
Detecting bedbugs on a sleeping surface requires a systematic visual examination. The insects are small, oval, and flattened, measuring about 4–5 mm when unfed and turning a reddish‑brown after feeding. Their bodies have six legs and a distinctive “c‑shaped” abdomen.
Key inspection zones include:
- Seams, folds, and stitching of the mattress and box spring.
- Headboard, footboard, and bed frame joints.
- Tags, labels, and any fabric attached to the bed.
- Under the mattress and within the box spring’s internal layers.
- Pillows, duvet covers, and any nearby fabric.
Effective tools for the task are:
- A bright LED flashlight to illuminate dark crevices.
- A handheld magnifying glass (10–20×) for close inspection.
- A white sheet or paper placed beneath the mattress to reveal shed skins and fecal spots.
- Disposable gloves to avoid contaminating the area.
Visible evidence of infestation consists of:
- Live or dead insects.
- Exuviae (shed skins) that appear as translucent shells.
- Small dark specks (fecal stains) resembling pepper grains.
- Tiny white or ivory eggs, approximately 0.5 mm in length, often hidden in seams.
A practical inspection sequence:
- Remove all bedding and place the white sheet on the floor beneath the mattress.
- Illuminate each target zone with the flashlight, scanning slowly from one end to the other.
- Use the magnifier to examine seams, stitching, and folds for insects or signs.
- Rotate the mattress to view the underside and internal box‑spring layers.
- Inspect surrounding furniture, nightstands, and baseboards for additional activity.
Additional recommendations: