What Are The Early Signs Of Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs can be difficult to spot at first. Their bites are often confused with those from other insects. This can be especially tricky in summer when mosquitoes and fleas are active. However, recognising the early signs of bed bugs can help stop an infestation before it spreads.

What to look for on your skin and bedding

Firstly, look for small red bites, often in a line or cluster. These usually appear on exposed skin overnight. Although not everyone reacts, the bites can be itchy or swollen. Importantly, the bites alone don’t confirm bed bugs. Yet when combined with other clues, they’re a clear warning sign.

Early signs of bed bugs include spots on your sheets or pillowcases. These come from crushed insects or bites that bleed slightly. You may also notice small dark marks, which are their faeces. These can look like black dots or smears on fabric. If you spot these signs, it’s worth checking seams and folds in your mattress.

Additionally, bed bugs shed their skins as they grow. You might find these pale husks hidden in mattress seams or behind the headboard. Although small, they’re easy to spot once you know what to look for. If you’re unsure, a torch and magnifying glass can help with close inspection.

Bed bugs release a musty smell, especially when in large numbers. Some describe it as a sweet or sickly odour. If you notice an unusual smell in the bedroom, check for other signs straight away. The earlier you identify them, the easier they are to control.

Where to check and when to act

You’ll usually find early signs of bed bugs around the bed frame or mattress. However, they may also hide behind skirting boards, electrical sockets or inside furniture. Because they are nocturnal, spotting them during the day can be hard. That’s why we recommend checking regularly, especially after travelling or buying second-hand items.

Furthermore, we often see infestations start after holidays. Bed bugs hitchhike in luggage or clothing. If you’ve returned from a trip, inspect your bags carefully. Wash and dry clothes on a hot cycle to kill any hidden insects.

If you suspect anything, call us straight away. We can confirm whether you’re seeing early signs of bed bugs. Our trained technicians use safe methods to inspect and treat your home. Acting quickly makes treatment faster and more effective. Pest control works best when caught early, so don’t wait. Let us help you deal with early signs of bed bugs safely and professionally.