Your home's cleanliness is vital to you. You take pride in maintaining a clean and comfortable living space for yourself and your family. So, the last thing you want to discover is that pests have invaded your home. Unfortunately, bed bugs are among the worst pests you can find in your home.

These small, reddish-brown insects are experts at hiding. They can live for several months without feeding, which means they can be hard to get rid of once they've taken residence in your home. Even worse, bed bugs cause itchy, red welts on the skin, which can be very uncomfortable. In this article, we talk more about bed bugs- signs they are present in your home and how to get rid of them.

Signs of Bed Bugs

If you think you might have bed bugs, there are a few things to look for. Here are some of the most common signs of bed bugs:

• Blood Stains on Your Sheets - These tiny insects feed on human blood, so one of the first signs you might have bed bugs is blood stains on your sheets. These stains are usually small and dark in color. The blood is from when the bed bug bites you while sleeping.
• Dark Spots on Your Mattress - In addition to blood stains, you might also notice dark spots on your mattress. These spots are the bed bug's feces. Bed bugs typically defecate after feeding, so the presence of these dark spots is a good indicator that you have an infestation.
• Itchy, Red Bites on Your Skin - Another sign you have bed bugs is itchy, red bites on your skin. These bites are usually in a cluster or line and can be very itchy. If you notice bites on your skin, checking for other signs of bed bugs is good before assuming you have them.
• Musty Odor - Bed bugs give off a musty, sweet odor. If you notice this odor in your home, it's a sign you have an infestation. The odor is similar to that of a wet towel or overripe fruit.
• Skin Shedding - As bed bugs grow, they shed their skin. If you find small, brownish skins in your home, it's a good sign you have bed bugs.

Bed Bug Removal 

If you think you might have bed bugs, it's important to take action right away. These pests are very difficult to eliminate, so the sooner you start treatment, the better. There are a few different ways to get rid of bed bugs, which we discuss below.

1. Use a Vacuum - Vacuuming can help remove the insects and their eggs from your home. Be sure to focus on areas where bed bugs are likely to hide, such as cracks in the walls, crevices in furniture, and around the baseboards. After vacuuming, dispose of the bag immediately to prevent the bed bugs from crawling back out. They will try to get back out.
2. Wash Your Bedding - Washing your bedding in hot water can also help get rid of bed bugs. Be sure to wash all of your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets. It would be best if you also washed any clothes that may be infested. Use the hottest water setting on your washing machine when washing your bedding. Adding a few tablespoons of bleach to the load can also help eliminate the bed bugs.
3. Use a Steamer - A steamer can help eliminate bed bugs and their eggs. When using a steamer, hold the steamer close to the surface to prevent the bed bugs from scattering. Also, remember to dispose of any dead bugs and eggs afterward.
4. Use Insecticides - You may need to use an insecticide if you have a severe infestation. There are a few different types of insecticides that can be effective against bed bugs. Always follow the directions on the label carefully to prevent harming yourself or your family.
5. Hiring a Pest Control Professional - If you have a severe infestation or can't get rid of the bed bugs on your own, you may need to hire a pest control professional. These experts can help eliminate the bed bugs and prevent them from returning. Not only will they have the proper equipment and experience, but they will also know how to use other chemicals safely.