Bed bugs may sound like something out of a nightmare, but unfortunately, they are all too real. These tiny creatures can leave you with itchy, red rashes that are far from pleasant. So, how do you know if you have a bed bug infestation in your home or hotel room? Let's dive into the five signs you should watch out for.
First and foremost, pay attention to any strange odors in your bedroom. Nic Shacklock, a bedroom furniture expert at Online Bedrooms, advises that a musty and unpleasant smell could be a sign of bed bugs. Bed bugs have scent glands, and when present in large numbers, they can create a distinct odor. Trust your nose and investigate further if something doesn't smell right. Next, keep an eye out for small white spots on your bedding. These are bed bug shells and eggs. They are typically clustered together and can be smooth and pearly to the touch. Bed bug eggs are about the size of a grain of salt and shaped like a barrel, making them difficult to spot. Lowering the room temperature may help delay the hatching of these eggs, but remember that they usually hatch within 10 days.
Blood-stained sheets are a clear indicator of a bed bug problem. When you inadvertently squash a bed bug while sleeping, blood specks may appear on your bedding. If the bug hasn't recently fed, you might notice a yellowish-brown smear instead. Check your comforters, bedsheets, and pillows for reddish-brown dots or stains – a sure sign that bed bugs have invaded your space. Bed bug bites can be incredibly itchy and distressing, but the good news is that they are not known to transmit diseases. However, they do leave behind red marks or rashes on your body. According to Nic Shacklock, these bites often form a straight line across your body, which is a characteristic bed bug trait. Pay close attention to areas of exposed skin, such as the neck, face, hands, and arms. If you do get bitten, try using a clean damp cloth or mild steroid cream like hydrocortisone to alleviate irritation.
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Lastly, check for bed bug droppings. These droppings are dark brown or black in color and can easily smear when wiped away. They are primarily composed of dried blood. Inspect your bedsheets, mattresses, headboard, and even the edge of the carpet for any signs of these droppings. Now sleep tight and be sure not to let those bed bugs bite.
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