Bed bugs occur all year round and worldwide. The resistant vermin can become a nerve-wracking plague for those affected, which is why it is important to notice an infestation at an early stage. We explain which 4 signs you can use to recognize bed bugs.
Bed bugs are flat, oval-shaped parasites that are usually only a few millimeters in size. The bug occurs worldwide because it can be transmitted through clothing as well as luggage. Bed bugs are often brought home from vacation, as the animals are increasingly staying where there are many different visitors, for example in hotels or hostels, but also in health facilities or airplanes. An infestation is often only noticed when the bed bugs have multiplied. Since they are difficult to get rid of, an infestation can be extremely time-consuming and expensive. A bad infestation can be a challenge even for pest controllers. If you catch the bed bugs early, you can save a lot of money and nerves.
Table of Contents
Bed bugs: 4 signs
1. Bite marks
Bed bugs feed on human blood. Like other bloodsuckers, they leave bite marks behind with their bites. These can look different – they are usually itchy, reddish pustules that are reminiscent of flea or mosquito bites. However, blisters or hives that look similar to an allergic reaction can also occur. The stitches are usually close together and often arranged in a row, but single stitches can also occur. So if you discover pustules, wheals or blisters on your skin, although there are no mosquitoes around, this can be an indication of bed bugs. Especially when the following signs appear.
Also interesting: How to distinguish insect bites >>
2. Blood stains
Bed bugs can be found in various places in the home, often affecting the bed or sofa bed. During the day, the animals usually hide and only come out at night to suck blood. After being stung, bloodstains may remain on the person’s bed or clothing. So, if you notice small smears of blood on your clothes or bedding without injuring yourself, that could also indicate a bed bug infestation.
3. Special smell
Another way to spot a bed bug infestation is by smell. Yes, you read it right. This is because the small parasites have so-called stink glands that secrete a sweet scent. Especially with an advanced bed bug infestation, the plague can be noticed by an unpleasant-sweet odor smelling of bitter almonds. People often only notice the stench when the infestation is more advanced.
4. Kotspuren
Immediately after sucking blood, bed bugs secrete dark, watery feces. In the case of a bed bug infestation, this becomes visible in all places where the pests are – these include, for example, the seams of the mattress, bed frames or baseboards. The black spots can also be mistaken for mold.
