Tiny, but mighty. That’s exactly how bedbugs are. Due to their compact size, bedbugs can easily hide and avoid detection, while creating terror for their victims at night.

As the name suggests, bed bugs are typically found on beds. However, they are sometimes found on other types of bedding and upholstery as well, including pillows, cushions, sofas, carpets, and duvets. In fact, one of the ways bedbugs get into a home is through infesting the clothes, luggage, or bags of a person.

Since you now know that bedbugs are not just limited to beds, it’s time to peel your eyes to detect any presence of bedbugs in other parts of your home. Here are some giveaway signs that you have bedbugs living with you:

• Stains on bedding

Reddish-brown, rusty-looking spots on bedding materials may be the result of squashed bedbugs. Tiny, dark spots and stains may be leftover bedbug faeces. Often, these spots are so small that they may be overlooked or thought of as dust. Thus, it is crucial to know what they look like.

• Bite marks in a line

Waking up to itchy, red bumps on the skin can mean many things. Mosquitoes, allergies, and bedbugs can all cause it. The way to distinguish bedbug bites is by the formation of their bites. Bedbugs usually cause bite marks that are clustered or in a straight line, which is where your body meets the bed. If bedbugs are on your sofa, you might expect these bites to be limited to the area along your thighs.

• Smell

Sometimes, you can detect bedbug infestations from their smell. Unless you have a very keen nose, being able to smell a bedbug infestation is usually not a good sign – it means the infestation is already quite extensive. Some people describe the smell as musty and woody, while others have reported a rusty smell with hints of sweetness.

How to prevent a bedbug infestation

Most people think that as long as they keep their homes clean, they will be safe from bedbugs. However, unfortunately, that is not true. Bedbugs can enter the home without your knowledge, regardless of how clean or well-kept your home is.

The best way to prevent a bedbug infestation is to be vigilant and nip the problem in the bud once it is detected. Making it a point to regularly wash and air your beddings will help to deter bedbugs from staying there. Besides the bedsheets and pillowcases, you should also check areas like the bed frames, sofas, and cushions. If you have recently travelled, it is crucial to check your luggage and clean it thoroughly before storing it away.

In the event you have a bedbug infestation that is already out of control, you can call in professional pest control services. The experts can help you with bedbug control measures to eliminate and prevent future infestations. With these steps, you can be more assured of a good night’s rest again.