How to identify bed bugs in furniture? - briefly
Inspect seams, cushions, and joints for tiny, oval, reddish‑brown insects about 4–5 mm long, along with dark fecal spots and translucent shed skins. Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to reveal hidden specimens.
How to identify bed bugs in furniture? - in detail
Bed bugs leave distinct signs that can be seen on sofas, chairs, beds, and other upholstered items. Look for the following evidence:
- Small, reddish‑brown insects measuring 4–5 mm, resembling apple seeds. Their bodies are flat when unfed and become more rounded after a blood meal.
- Dark, rust‑colored spots on fabric or wood. These are excretions that may appear as specks or smears.
- Tiny, translucent shells shed during growth. They are oval, about 2 mm long, and often cling to seams or stitching.
- Tiny white or pale eggs, roughly 1 mm in size, attached to creases, folds, or the underside of cushions.
- Faint, sweet or musty odor that intensifies as the infestation grows.
Inspection should focus on areas where the insects hide:
- Seams and joints – pull apart cushions, check the stitching, and examine the interior of frames.
- Edges and corners – inspect the underside of legs, backrests, and any decorative molding.
- Hidden cavities – remove removable panels, open storage compartments, and look inside hollow legs or structural voids.
- Mattress and box springs – although not furniture, they often accompany a larger infestation; examine tags and seams.
Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to improve visibility. A handheld vacuum can capture live bugs, shells, or eggs for later identification under a microscope. If possible, place a white sheet of paper beneath the furniture and run the vacuum over the area; any dislodged insects will fall onto the sheet for easier observation.
When evidence is found, document the location, quantity, and type of sign (live insect, shell, fecal spot, egg). This information guides treatment decisions and helps professionals assess the severity of the problem. In the absence of clear signs, repeat the inspection after 24–48 hours, as bed bugs are nocturnal and may be missed during a single survey.