Bed Bug Inspection: How to Spot Bed Bugs in Your Home
Bed bugs are one of the most stressful pests a homeowner can face. They’re small, sneaky, and skilled at hiding, which is why a proper bed bug inspection is the first step toward solving the problem. Knowing where to look, what to do if you find them, and how to prevent them from coming back can make all the difference.
At Anticimex Carolinas, we’ve helped countless families across the Carolinas deal with bed bug infestations. Here’s what you need to know about how to check for bed bugs and what to do if you find them.
How to Check for Bed Bugs
The process of a bed bug inspection can vary depending on whether a space is vacant or occupied, but some places are always worth checking:
Ceiling and Wall Angles
Start your inspection at the right angle where the walls meet the ceiling. Bed bugs tend to gather here in vacant homes or apartments, in heavy infestations, or after repellant pesticide treatments.
Window Frames, Door Frames, and Baseboards
These are common hiding spots in empty spaces. Bed bugs leave behind spotting—tiny black ink-like dots—around outlets and baseboards. To confirm, wipe with a damp cloth: bed bug stains smear, while roach stains do not.
Furniture in Occupied Homes
In homes where people live, bed bugs stay close to where you rest. Check beds, couches, recliners, and even office chairs. During your bed bug inspection, pay attention to seams, cracks, and zippers where the bugs can hide.
What to Do if You Find Bed Bugs
Finding bed bugs during an inspection can feel overwhelming, but don’t panic—it’s a treatable issue.
Hotels or Rentals
Don’t stay in an infested hotel room, and avoid moving into rental properties until they’ve been treated and cleared.
In Your Home
Call a professional pest control company immediately. DIY chemicals often spread the infestation or put your health at risk. While waiting for professional help, you can:
- Vacuum visible bugs and furniture seams (and empty the vacuum outdoors right away).
- Wash bedding and clothing on high heat.
- Document what you find with photos.
At Anticimex Carolinas, we perform thorough bed bug treatments and offer effective pest control services tailored to your home.
Preventing Bed Bugs After an Inspection
Since bed bugs spread by hitchhiking, prevention is key:
- After Traveling: Leave luggage in the garage or outside before unpacking, and wash clothing immediately.
- After Public Outings: Wash clothes right away after visiting places like hospitals, theaters, or public transit.
- When Hosting Guests: Avoid piling coats on the bed—provide alternative storage instead.
- Routine Cleaning: Vacuum furniture regularly to catch any potential hitchhikers early.
How Common Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are still around, but not as common as they were before the pandemic. Their spread slowed during COVID-19, but infestations still occur and should always be taken seriously. A professional bed bug inspection is the most reliable way to identify an issue before it becomes a bigger problem.
Schedule Your Bed Bug Inspection with Anticimex Carolinas
A bed bug inspection is the first and most important step in reclaiming your peace of mind. At Anticimex Carolinas, our trained professionals know exactly where to look, how to confirm an infestation, and the best way to eliminate it.
Contact Anticimex Carolinas today to schedule a bed bug treatment and protect your home from unwanted pests.
