Everyone loves falling into bed after a long, exhausting day. But if your mattress is hosting bed bugs, you may be dreading bedtime instead of looking forward to it. If you suspect you have a bed bug problem, follow these tips from the Des Moines bed bug exterminator team at Pro Staff to find out if these creepy crawlers are inhabiting your furniture.

Where to Look

Bed bugs are typically nocturnal creatures, which means you aren’t likely to see live bed bugs out and about during the daytime. They like to hide in the cracks and crevices of your furniture. Pieces that may house bed bugs include:

• Beds (including mattresses, box springs, and headboards)
• Sofas
• Chairs

When checking for signs of bed bugs, be sure to examine each piece thoroughly. Look underneath the piece, check for any holes in it, and check along the seams or folds. You can even use a plastic card, like a credit card, to glide along the seams of mattresses or sofa cushions in order to unearth bed bugs or bed bug residue.

Uncovering the Evidence

So, now you know where to look, but what should you look for? There are several signs that can indicate a bed bug infestation. 

• Live bed bugs: Bed bugs are rather small, but you may still be able to spot them. They are flat, teardrop-shaped insects that measure about 1/4 inch when fully grown. They are usually dark brown or reddish-brown in color.
• Bed Bug Casings: When these bugs go through the stages of their life, they shed their shells at the end of each cycle. Look for the small, reddish-brown, hollow casings they leave behind if you suspect your bed may be infested.
• Bed Bug Droppings: It’s unpleasant to think about, but searching for bed bug droppings can be another way to diagnose an infestation. Check the fabric of your bedding for what looks like little black pen marks.
• Reddish-Brown Stains: You may also notice some small red or brownish stains on your fabric. These marks are dried blood and occur when bed bugs are crushed.
• Bug Bites: Finally, if you find itchy, red welts on your body, these could be bed bug bites. It can be difficult to discern where the bites come from, as they appear similar to other types of bug bites, but pay attention to the pattern of the bites — bed bug bites often occur in a straight line.

Don’t let bed bugs keep you from getting a good night’s sleep! Des Moines bed bug exterminator Pro Staff can help you kick those critters to the curb. Call 515-279-7378 today to get a quote for bed bug treatment.