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With bedbugs becoming an increasing issue across the country, there’s a much higher risk of finding them in your own home than ever before. As such, it’s important that homeowners everywhere can recognize the red flags of an infestation. Because the insect reproduces so quickly, early detection provides the best chance of getting rid of them quickly. Here are a few warning signs that can alert you to a potential bedbug problem.

How to Tell if You Have Bedbugs

1. There Are Bites on Your Body

Bedbugs typically prefer to feed on human blood during the night. While many people don’t have a reaction to bedbug bites, others will wake up with small, red welts that itch. They usually appear in clusters or a line on the legs, arms, neck, or face. If you or someone else in your household notice bites that resemble this, it’s best to have your home inspected. 

2. They Leave Evidence Behind

There are a number of clues bedbugs will frequently leave behind when they’re active that can help you identify their presence. As they grow into adulthood, the insect will begin shedding their skin, which is a tan color and can be found in mattress creases, along baseboards, and under furniture. They also leave fecal stains that look like rust-colored streaks or spots. You may see this on bedding, baseboards, outlet covers, or upholstered furniture. Additionally, droplets of blood are known to form when bedbugs are feeding, and it will often stain the bedding.

3. You Smell a Strange Odor 

bedbugsBedbugs release pheromones when disturbed, which creates an unpleasant, musty odor. It’s most noticeable when a group of bedbugs are nearby, so if you walk into a room and smell it, you could already have a good-sized infestation. The scent may resemble a wet towel or dirty locker room.

4. They Come Out of Hiding

Though bedbugs are good at hiding and tend to only come out at night once it’s dark, you may actually see one on the rare occasion. They’re small and light brown with an oval-shaped, flat body. They have six legs, two antennae, and no wings. After they’re done feeding, they generally become a bit darker, swollen, and more pear-shaped. 

 

If you have any concerns that bedbugs are present in your home, don’t hesitate to contact Select Pest Control. They offer extensive knowledge and experience with bedbug infestations and will provide you with a customized treatment plan for your unique situation. For more than 30 years, Cincinnati, OH, residents have relied on them for effective and affordable pest control solutions. Call (513) 352-0080 to schedule an inspection, or visit them online to learn more about their services.

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