Of all the pests that can impact your home, bed bugs are among the most stubborn. They’re difficult to detect, and they’re nearly impossible to eradicate on your own. Here are a few common signs and physical symptoms of a bed bug infestation that every homeowner should know.

5 Signs of Bed Bugs in Your Home

1. Fecal Spots

They’re called bed bugs for a reason: these pests tend to feed on humans while they sleep, leaving behind blood stains on your mattress and bedding. Look for small rust spots near the corners and edges of your bed.

2. Exoskeletons

Bed bugs shed their skin as they grow, so they leave behind exoskeletons in areas where they aggregate and feed. Look for translucent shells around your mattress, particularly in the crevices and along the piping.

3. Bites

If you wake up with red, itchy welts on your skin after a restless night’s sleep, odds are high that you’re dealing with an infestation. Bed bug bites appear in zigzag lines, clusters, or rows, particularly on exposed areas like the arms and shoulders. Keep in mind that not everyone reacts to bites the same way, and you might have bed bugs even if you don’t wake up with welts.

4. Odor

Bed bug infestations are associated with a strong, musty odor—particularly when they aggregate in large numbers. If your bedroom or your hotel room smells like a wet towel, inspect your mattress to make sure you aren’t sleeping with any unwelcome visitors.

5. Visible Bugs

Mature bed bugs are approximately the size of an apple seed, which means they can be seen by the naked eye if you know where to look. If you can’t find any signs of bugs on your mattress, use a flashlight to check the areas around your bed, such as your headboard, tables, and even paneling.

If you notice any of these signs, your best course of action is to call an experienced exterminator. Bed bug infestations are notoriously tough to treat without a professional’s help, but a pest control expert can inspect your home and develop a personalized treatment plan.

You deserve a great night’s sleep—not the restless hassle of stubborn bed bugs and other pests. At Danny’s Termite & Pest Control in Lancaster, KY, their team offers commercial and residential pest control services backed by over 50 years of experience in the industry. For the best combination of customer care and pest prevention, call (859) 792-1245 to schedule a consultation or visit them online to learn more about bed bugs.