What do bedbugs look like in a sofa? - briefly
Bedbugs are tiny, oval insects about 4–5 mm long, reddish‑brown in color, flat‑bodied when unfed and swollen after a blood meal; in a sofa they congregate in seams, cushion folds, and under fabric edges, leaving tiny dark spots of feces and occasional shed skins. Their presence is indicated by these specks, a faint sweet odor, and occasional bite marks on exposed skin.
What do bedbugs look like in a sofa? - in detail
Bedbugs concealed in a sofa are typically 4–5 mm long, resembling small apple seeds. Their bodies are flat, oval, and reddish‑brown after feeding; unfed specimens appear pale, almost translucent. The dorsal surface shows a smooth, glossy finish, while the ventral side is slightly lighter. Antennae are short, segmented, and visible near the head, and eight tiny legs extend from the thorax, each ending in a claw‑like tip.
Key visual indicators in upholstered furniture:
- Tiny, dark‑red or rust‑colored spots on fabric or cushion seams, representing digested blood.
- Small, whitish excrement dots, often found near seams, tufts, or under cushions.
- Translucent exoskeletons (nymphal skins) left after molting, appearing as delicate shells.
- Live insects moving slowly across the surface, especially after the sofa has been disturbed.
Typical hiding locations within a sofa include:
- Stitch lines and seams of cushions, where the fabric folds create narrow crevices.
- The underside of cushions, especially if removable.
- The internal frame, particularly in wooden slats or metal springs, where darkness and protection are abundant.
- Tufts, buttons, and decorative stitching that generate pockets of shelter.
When inspecting a sofa, focus on these areas and look for the described markings. Early detection relies on recognizing the combination of size, coloration, and associated waste products.