Where should you look for a bedbug nest in an apartment? - briefly
Inspect mattress seams, box springs, headboards, nightstands, and upholstered furniture joints; also examine cracks in walls, baseboards, and behind picture frames or wall hangings. These concealed areas are the most common sites for bedbug colonies in a residence.
Where should you look for a bedbug nest in an apartment? - in detail
Inspect seams and folds of mattresses, including the box spring and under the mattress cover. Examine the headboard, especially where it attaches to the wall, and any cracks or voids in the wood. Check the bed frame, focusing on joints, screws, and the underside.
Investigate upholstered furniture: cushions, seams, and the interior of sofas or chairs. Remove covers when possible and look behind the frame, within springs, and in any hidden pockets.
Search for bedbugs in wall voids and baseboards. Use a flashlight to examine behind wallpaper, around electrical outlets, and inside picture frames. Pay attention to cracks in plaster, tile grout, and the edges of floorboards.
Look behind and beneath personal items that remain stationary for extended periods: luggage, backpacks, suitcases, and boxes stored under the bed or in closets. Open each container and inspect seams, zippers, and interior surfaces.
Examine floor coverings. Lift carpets, rugs, and linoleum edges to view the subfloor and any concealed spaces. Check the edges of PVC or vinyl flooring for gaps where insects can hide.
Target crevices in bathroom fixtures: around the base of the toilet, behind the shower curtain rod, and inside vanity cabinets. Inspect towel racks, toothbrush holders, and any porous surfaces.
Typical hiding spots include:
- Mattress stitching, tags, and corners
- Bed frame joints and under‑bed space
- Sofa cushions, springs, and frame joints
- Wall baseboards, cracks, and electrical outlet covers
- Luggage, bags, and stored boxes
- Carpet edges, under‑floor spaces, and tile grout lines
- Bathroom vanity interiors and fixture bases
Use a fine‑tooth comb or a magnifying glass to detect live insects, exuviae (shed skins), or dark fecal spots. Early detection in these locations reduces the likelihood of a full infestation.