7 Early Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation

Bed bugs are small, sneaky, and difficult to detect—until it’s too late. Here are 7 early signs that bed bugs might be lurking in your home:

1. Unexplained Bites

If you’re waking up with small, itchy red welts that seem to form a line or cluster, bed bugs may be the culprit.

2. Rust-Colored Stains on Sheets

These stains are often caused by crushed bed bugs or their excrement.

3. Tiny White Eggs or Eggshells

These are usually found in mattress seams, furniture crevices, or along baseboards.

4. Live Bed Bugs

Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed. If you see one, there are likely many more hiding nearby.

5. A Musty Odor

Some infestations emit a strong, musty scent caused by bed bug pheromones.

6. Shell Casings

Bed bugs shed their skins as they grow. Look for empty exoskeletons in hidden areas.

7. Red or Brown Smudges on Walls

These may be fecal stains and are a major sign of infestation.

If you spot any of these signs, it’s critical to act quickly. Contact a professional pest control service and consider protective options like bed bug insurance.