Bed Bugs 101

Written By devan cearley

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood. These nocturnal pests can survive for months without feeding and are found worldwide. Most people first notice a problem when they see unexplained bites, live bugs, shed skins, or small bloodstains and dark spots on bedding.

Where Do You Find Them?

Bed bugs tend to hide in places close to where people sleep or rest, including:

  • Mattresses and box springs

  • Bed frames and headboards

  • Baseboards and cracks in furniture

  • Behind outlets, wall hangings, and seams of fabric

Keep an eye out for live bugs, shed skins, tiny white eggs, or dark fecal spots. Early detection is key to preventing the infestation from spreading.

How to Get Rid of Them

If you suspect bed bugs, take these immediate steps:

  • Reduce clutter in infested rooms so bugs have fewer places to hide.

  • Wash and dry all bedding, linens, clothing, and fabric items on high heat (140°F or higher).

  • Vacuum thoroughly—especially mattress seams, baseboards, and tight crevices.

  • Seal and dispose of vacuum bags or debris in an outdoor trash bin.

  • Use mattress encasements to trap remaining bugs and prevent new ones from hiding.

These steps can help control the problem, but they rarely eliminate a full infestation.

When to Seek Professional Help

Bed bugs are very difficult to remove completely without professional tools and treatments. If you’ve taken the steps above and still see signs of activity—or if the infestation is spreading—contact a licensed pest control technician. Professionals have access to targeted treatments and equipment designed to fully eliminate bed bugs and help prevent their return.


devan cearley