What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?

Frequently our phone rings with panicked Eugene residents concerned that they might have bed bugs. Fortunately, most of these homes are found to not actually contain bed bugs after a detailed inspection by our trained technicians. That said, we regularly do treat active bed bug infestations throughout Lane and Douglas Counties.  We’re well aware of what bed bugs look like, and we’ll show you how to identify them.

What Bed Bugs Look Like:

1. Groupings of black spots that look kind of like mold.  You’ll find these in folds or crevices, particularly around your mattresses.
2. Small reddish colored bugs about the size of an apple seed or slightly smaller.
3. Small blood spots on sheets.
4. Although bites alone are not a certain indicator of bed bug activity, bed bug bites are often found in a series of three grouped red bites.

We find that using white or light colored sheets for a week is one of the the easiest ways to find and identify bed bugs.

This bed frame found in a Lane County hotel shows live bed bugs, shed skins and fecal stains.

NOTE:  These Are Not Bed Bugs

Now that you know what bed bugs look like, you might think you’ve found some.  You should know that bed bugs are often confused with carpet beetles (pictured).  Carpet beetles don’t actually bite people, and the process to eliminate them is totally different. Carpet beetles are often found in windowsills and on the floor near the baseboard behind beds. Carpet beetles are small and look fuzzy.

If You Think You Might Have Bed Bugs Start Here

The first step is to determine if you actually have bed bugs. We treat for bed bugs when we find live bugs. The six most likely places to find live bed bugs are as follows:

1. In the folds or pleats of sheets and box spring covers.
2. In seams of mattresses and box springs–especially at the head of the bed.
3. Under tags on mattresses.
4. Where the floor and baseboard meet at the head of the bed.
5. Behind headboards, picture frames or other items on the wall over the head of the bed.
6. In the folds of sofas where tv watching takes place.

Bites Don’t Equal Bed Bugs

So just to recap, there are several potential causes for red marks or “bites” on human skin. Often actual causes are allergic reactions to something, fleas, mosquitoes or carpet beetles. Therefore a detailed inspection is the first step to locate actual live bugs that could potentially be causing the problems. Once actual insects are located and identified, a treatment plan can be implemented to eliminate the threat. This proven process is the responsible approach that saves money and frustrations for everyone involved.

Let Us Help With A PRO Bed Bug Inspection 

Since bed bugs are so small, our trained eyes can make the whole inspection process much faster and more accurate. Call 541-636-0146 to schedule a Detailed Bed Bug Inspection. We will inspect your home and make suggestions for eliminating or monitoring any pest problems.

Protect your home and family from Bed Bugs. Contact us here or call 541-636-0146 to join our family and experience…

GUARANTEED Bed Bug Elimination System

Locally owned for fast, exceptional service.

5 Star Pest Control Service available in Albany, Ashland, Corvallis, Eugene, Grants Pass, McMinnville, Medford, Newberg, Roseburg, Salem, Sherwood, Wilsonville, Woodburn, Tigard, Tualatin and surrounding areas.

Bug Zapper is the best! My technician is consistently thorough and meticulous. He is courteous and timely, always letting us know that he is on his way to the house. I would recommend Bug Zapper to anyone looking for a great Pest Control service. — Dustin T. — Yelp Review