How to check for bedbugs in bedding? - briefly
Inspect sheets, mattress seams, and folds with a bright flashlight and magnifying glass for tiny reddish‑brown spots, live bugs, or shed skins. If any signs appear, isolate the bedding, launder at ≥60 °C, and arrange professional treatment.
How to check for bedbugs in bedding? - in detail
Inspect the sleeping surface before laundering. Remove all sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers, then fold them over a white sheet or towel. Look for the following indicators:
- Small, reddish‑brown spots about the size of a pinhead; these are fecal stains left by the insects.
- Tiny, translucent eggs attached to seams or stitching.
- Live insects, which appear as flat, oval, reddish‑brown bodies about 4–5 mm long.
- Shed skins (exuviae) that are light brown and look like tiny shells.
Use a magnifying glass or a handheld loupe with at least 10× magnification to enhance visibility. Examine seams, corners, and edges where the fabric folds. Pay special attention to the mattress tag, under the pillow, and the interior of pillowcases where bugs often hide.
If a flashlight is available, employ a bright, focused beam to illuminate crevices. The light should be angled to reduce glare and reveal movement. For a more thorough assessment, place the inspected bedding on a sheet of white paper and gently shake it; any dislodged insects will fall onto the paper and become easier to spot.
After confirming the presence or absence of evidence, launder all items in hot water (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat treatment kills all life stages. For items that cannot be washed, seal them in a plastic bag and expose them to a portable heating device or a professional heat‑treatment service.
Repeat the inspection after treatment to verify eradication. If signs persist, consider contacting a licensed pest‑control professional for comprehensive remediation.