Dead Bed Bug Shells -Do I Need A Bed Bug Treatment?
When you spot small, shed insect casings around your bedding, it can be a sign of bed bugs. Many people worry at the sight of these shells, wondering if they have an infestation. If you find bed bug shells, it’s important to take them seriously as they indicate that bed bugs could be living in your home.
Understanding what these shells look like can help you identify a problem early. Bed bug shells are often clearer and can vary in size depending on the stage of the bugs’ life cycle. Learning to recognize these casings can help you decide whether you need to take action.
Identifying Bed Bug Shells
Identifying bed bug shells can help you determine if you have a bed bug problem. These shed skins offer clear signs of their presence and can be found in specific areas around your home.
Characteristics of Shed Skins
Bed bug shells, also known as exoskeletons, vary in size between half a centimetre to 1 centimetre. They are light to medium brown and oval-shaped, resembling a flattened apple seed.
The shells become darker as bed bugs mature. Younger bed bugs shed softer skins, while adults have a harder texture. These shed skins can be tricky to spot, as they blend into surfaces. Recognising the size and color can help you in distinguishing shed skins from other debris. Keep an eye on places where you find multiple shells, as this indicates a potential infestation.
Common Places to Find Bed Bug Exoskeletons
You are likely to find bed bug shells in areas where bed bugs hide, usually during their molting process. Start your search in cracks and crevices around your bed, mattress seams, and furniture.
Other common bed bug hiding spots include:
- Behind headboards
- In electrical outlets
- Baseboards
Look for shells on bedding, furniture, and even in your closet. Additionally, check along the edges of carpets and rugs.
It is helpful to keep an eye out for fecal stains that look like dark spots; they often appear near the same locations. Finding both shells and stains can give you a clearer picture of a bed bug issue.
Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
Recognising the signs of a bed bug infestation is key to taking action. You should look out for live bugs, bites on your skin, and any marks or stains on your bedding.
Live Bed Bugs
Live bed bugs are small insects, usually reddish-brown, and about the size of an apple seed. You may find them hiding in your mattress seams, bed frames, or furniture close to your bed. They are nocturnal and often emerge at night to feed.
Inspect your bedding and surrounding areas carefully. Look for:
- Small, live bugs
- Egg cases, which are tiny and yellowish-white
- Shed skin or shells from growing bugs
If you spot any of these, be sure to act quickly.
Bed Bug Bites
Bed bug bites can appear as small, red bumps on your skin. They often occur in clusters or lines and can be very itchy. You may wake up with new bites, even if you didn’t notice them the night before.
Keep an eye on your body for these signs:
- Itching, especially in areas like the arms, legs, or neck
- Red, swollen bumps that are sensitive to touch
- A pattern of bites in a line or cluster
If you experience these symptoms, inspect your sleeping area for bed bugs.
Fecal Stains and Blood Spots
You may find small, dark spots on your sheets or mattress. These spots are likely bed bug feces and are about the size of a pinhead. Blood spots can also appear, usually from bites that occur during feeding.
To identify these signs:
- Fecal stains: Look for dark brown or black spots on fabrics.
- Blood spots: These may look like small red marks on your sheets or pillowcases.
Carefully check your bedding and mattress for these indications to confirm the presence of bed bugs.
Preventive Measures and Early Detection
Preventing bed bugs from coming into your home is easier than trying to get rid of them!
When you are traveling, keep your suitcase or clothing from being in contact with the carpet soft furnishings and curtains.
Keep your suitcase on a supplied table or bench. Do not put your clothing on the carpet.
Taking a large plastic bag or sheet with you when you travel is a way to keep your clothing and suitcase coming into direct contact with potential bed bugs.
Detecting bed bugs early by regularly inspecting your home and maintaining cleanliness.
Regular Inspection Tips
Start by checking your bed and nearby furniture for any signs of bed bugs. Look for:
- Shells: These are pale and about the size of an apple seed.
- Brown or Reddish Stains: These marks on your sheets can be from crushed bed bugs.
- Tiny Eggs: They are about 1mm and can be found in hidden corners.
Use a flashlight to examine dark areas like the seams of mattresses, inside box springs, and along baseboards. Regular checks, especially after travel or bringing home used items, help catch bed bugs before they spread. Encourage family members to also be aware of these signs.
Maintaining a Clean Environment
Keeping your living space clean is crucial in preventing bed bugs. Here are some tips:
- Regular Vacuuming: Focus on carpets, rugs, and furniture. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outside right away.
- Wash Bedding Frequently: Use hot water to wash sheets and pillowcases. Dry them on high heat to kill any bugs or eggs.
- Declutter: Reduce clutter in your home to eliminate hiding places for bed bugs.
Store items in sealed plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes. This makes it harder for bed bugs to find a cozy spot. Keeping your environment clean and organized can discourage bed bugs from settling in.
Professional Bed Bug Pest Control and Treatment
When dealing with bed bugs, you may need professional help from a company like So Pest Off. Selecting a pest control service can be daunting, but focusing on a few key points can help. Your pest control company must have experience in bed bug extermination.
Check that they use safe, effective methods.
Our Bed Bug Treatment includes treating EVERY room in the house and trating all areas in a systematic way. We also ensure that all your items are chemically treated and heat treated with a follow up inspection.
Get in touch with our local pest control service us and we can quickly get your bed bug extermination started.
