Vergo hero background shape 1 Vergo hero background shape 2

Signs of Bed Bugs

If you think you have a bed bug problem, it’s important to seek professional help before the infestation grows

Checking For a Bed Bug Infestation

When checking for bed bugs, you should look for the following:

  • Sightings: bed bugs are reddish-brown and typically roughly apple pip size, though size and colour vary greatly depending on their life stage and how recently they fed. You may find bedbugs near the food sources, for example, in mattress seams, buttons and bed frames. You may also see them in electric sockets, cracks and crevices, on curtains or along skirting boards and carpet edges.
bed bugs mattress
  • Staining: bed bugs deposit their faeces after every meal. This will appear as dark brown stains on bedding, especially around the edges of mattresses and bed frames where they are mainly found. This will be more pronounced with heavier infestations.
  • Blood: spots of blood may be found on your bedding or mattress. This is caused by the bed bugs feeding or the insect’s crushing.
  • Bites on your skin: bed bugs are nocturnal creatures and will feed when humans sleep at night. Carefully check your skin for evidence of bed bug bites: they will be red, slightly swollen, itchy and may appear in clusters. An anti-itch cream such as calamine lotion may help.

Where to check for bed bugs inside your property

Bed bugs are most commonly found near to where people sleep or spend long periods of time, however they can be found anywhere. When checking for bed bugs, some places to start your search include:

  • Mattress and box spring: Bed bugs are great at hiding in crevices and seams of mattrasses and box springs. Thoroughly inspect these areas for any signs of bed bugs. If you notice any small black or brown flecks this could be a sign of a bed bug infestation.
  • Bedding: Carefully check any bedding including your bedsheets, blankets, and pillowcases for any signs of bed bugs or their faeces.
Bed Bug Search
  • Furniture: Bed bugs aren’t only found in beds, they can also hide in nearby furniture, such as bed side tables, chairs, sofas, and dressers. Ensure that any second hand pieces of furniture are carefully checked prior to bringing them into your home.
  • Plug sockets and skirting boards: Bed bugs can hide in all sorts of cracks and crevices, including skirting boards and electrical outlets. Do not attempt to put anything inside plug sockets to check for bed bugs, instead use a torch to shine light into the area to inspect it.
  • Luggage: Bed bugs don’t fly they travel from one place to another by hitchhiking on items such as luggage, so carefully your luggage after traveling.

Bed bugs are known for being difficult to spot, so it is important to thoroughly inspect all of the areas above.  If you suspect that you have bed bugs in your home or business, it’s important to act quickly to prevent a larger infestation.

Need help searching your property for bed bugs?

Our bed bug sniffer dogs can save you time and money by thoroughly searching your premises for bed bugs in a matter of minutes. Our canine detection team works with various organisations that have a heavy flow of human traffic (such as hotels, care homes, holiday parks, and transport) to accurately detect bed bugs. For more information or to book a visit call 0344 335 0330.

Have you spotted signs of bed bugs and need our help?

If so, then contact us today and arrange a visit from one of our expert pest control technicians.

For a free quote CALL TODAY 0344 335 0330

(Open 7 days a week)

Why choose Vergo?

Over 45 Years Experience

Vergo Pest Management Ltd has over 45 years industry experience, offering both commercial and residential customers fast and effective pest control services banishing public health pests.

Delivering a Quality Service

Our mission is to deliver pest-free, safe and clean environments for customers on a consistent and quality basis.

Fully Trained Professionals

Vergo technicians are fully trained pest professionals, experienced and knowledgeable in dealing with all manner of public health pests.

Safe & Certified

Safety first, is always our motto at Vergo and we hold various safety accreditations to support this. Vergo are proud members of The British Pest Control Association.