Signs That Will Tell You If You Have Bed Bugs
Bed bugs can have health consequences you shouldn't underestimate. Knowing how to recognize them is essential! You should know these 8 signs:
It's everyone's nightmare: bed bugs. Normally, one doesn't think of highly industrialized countries like the UK when one mentions these insects. However, they are spreading more and more, even and especially in Western countries. The reason for this is simple: if you have been somewhere where bed bugs are present, they crawl into your clothes and luggage and then spread when you are at home.
Whether you're in a hotel or at home, there are eight signs to look for to know if you have a bed bug infestation. It has nothing to do with poor hygiene - anyone who has been in contact with them can hardly defend themselves against them.
Learn more about these signs on the following pages!
#1 What They Look Like
Bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and are dark brown in color - right after „eating“, they may appear reddish brown due to the blood that makes up their food. But since they hide during the day, you're unlikely to stumble upon them. This makes the following tips all the more important.
#2 Have a Look at the Exoskeleton
Like other insects, bed bugs skin and leave behind shells that are shaped like the pests. If you find them anywhere, your bed is definitely infested.
#3 Beware of Dark and Red Spots
Of course, small red spots can mean anything. But if a bed bug is crushed, it will leave small bloody marks if it has just fed.
#4 Watch Out for Small White Grains
If you find small white grains a little smaller than grains of rice in the corners and cracks of the walls or floor, they may be bedbug eggs. Even in this case, you are certainly impacted, because where there are eggs, the parents aren't far away.
#5 Sweet, Musty Smell
Again, this unpleasant smell can have many causes. But like all animals, bed bugs leave behind an odor of their own; their remains also have an unpleasant smell. It's supposed to smell like very strong coriander - so that is at least one clue that the pests are your new roomies.
#6 Pay Attention to Seams
Of course, it makes sense to start by checking your bed for bed bugs. But you also need to take a closer look: these bugs like darkness and hide in the seams of the comforter, pillow and mattress.
#7 Inspect Your Luggage
If you've spent the night in a hotel or hostel, take a closer look at your bags and suitcases before you leave – because that's where they nestle in dark corners and that's how they end up being dragged into your apartment.
#8 Check Electrical Outlets and Decorations
Once you have bed bugs, they can hide anywhere, as long as it is dark enough for them. This includes electrical outlet boxes, door frames and wall coverings. You should check them: look for reddish-brown blood trails as well as exoskeletons.