How to check if there are ticks in the bed? - briefly
Use a strong flashlight to examine the mattress, sheets, and bed frame, focusing on seams, folds, and hidden crevices for small, dark specks. Afterwards, run fingertips over the fabric to feel for moving insects and shake bedding over a white surface to reveal any dislodged ticks.
How to check if there are ticks in the bed? - in detail
Detecting the presence of ticks in a mattress requires a systematic visual and tactile examination. Begin by removing all bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, and laundering them at a temperature of at least 60 °C to eliminate any attached parasites. Inspect the fabric for small, dark specks that may resemble pinheads; these can be adult ticks or their detached legs.
Next, examine the mattress surface. Use a bright, focused light source—preferably a handheld LED lamp—to illuminate seams, folds, and tufts. Run fingertips gently over the fabric, feeling for hard, oval bodies that do not easily crush. Pay particular attention to:
- Edges and corners where the mattress meets the box spring
- Stitch lines and quilting patterns
- Areas beneath the mattress if a removable cover exists
If a tick is suspected, capture it with a fine‑toothed comb or a pair of tweezers. Place the specimen in a sealed container for identification; professional labs can confirm species and assess disease risk.
For a thorough assessment, repeat the inspection after a 24‑hour interval. Ticks may have moved or attached during the first check, and a second pass increases detection reliability. Additionally, inspect the surrounding environment—bed frame, headboard, and nearby floorboards—because ticks can migrate from adjacent surfaces.
When evidence of infestation is confirmed, treat the mattress with an approved acaricide following manufacturer instructions. After treatment, re‑launder all bedding and repeat the visual inspection after the product’s recommended waiting period to ensure complete eradication. Regular monitoring, performed weekly during peak tick season, maintains a tick‑free sleeping area.