Inspection

The inspection process is typically a two-person job. Why? Mattresses, box springs and furniture are heavy, and moving these hideout favorites is easier with a partner.

Detecting bed bugs can be a difficult task. Especially if your infestation is only one or two bugs. They are small, hard to see and the little buggers can hide pretty much anywhere. But if you know the signs of a bed bug infestation, the inspection process is much easier. You also need to be thorough.

The first and most common sign that you might find are the dark blackish stains left behind by bed bugs after they feed. They can sometimes be mistaken for mold or other stains.

Before a bed bug can move into it's next life stage it sheds its skin and leaves it behind. You can look for this shed skin as a sign that they are hiding near by.

Bed bug eggs are also a sign to look for but are very small, about the size of a poppy seed, so they're difficult to see. You can use a magnifying glass and flashlight to help you.

Click on the images to the right to learn more.

Watch how to properly inspect for bed bugs.

Nightstand & Drawers

Nightstand & Drawers
If there is a nightstand next to the bed, turn it upside down and inspect the back and bottom of the unit, paying close attention to the head of screws or other openings in the wood. Make sure to examine the nightstand drawers if there are any.

Carpet & Baseboard

Carpet & Baseboard
Inspect at the edge of the carpet and baseboard as well as the area around the feet of the bed.

Wall Hangings

Wall Hangings
Remove any wall hangings from above the head of the bed and examine the back sides for signs of bed bugs.

Mattress

Mattress
The mattress tends to be the primary target of bed bugs. Pull back the bedding at both top corners of the bed to expose the mattress. Inspect the rolled seams at the top and bottom edges of the mattress at each corner.

Box springs

Box Springs
Lift the mattress enough to observe the top corners of the box springs and look for the same signs as for the mattress. For more details, see the "What to Look For" tab.

Headboard

Headboard
If you can not see behind your headboard breath over it and inspect the top and edges looking for any bed bugs that might have come out to investigate the CO2 from your breath.

Bed Frame

Bed Frame
Inspect the bed frame paying close attention to any joints and cracks.

Cracks & Crevices

Cracks and Crevices Around Doors and Windows
Investigate cracks and crevices around doors and windows.

Sofas and Chairs (Near Bed)

Sofas & Chairs (Near Bed)
Remove the cushions from the sofa or other upholstered chairs and examine the edges of the cushions for signs of bed bugs. If the sofa contains a sleep sofa, open it and inspect the mattress and frame. Also check the underside of the desk chair. Turn it upside down to inspect the underside of the chair cushion and also the underside of the armrests.

Bed bugs prefer to stay within 5 feet of their feeding source.

Rollover the hotspots on the right for more information.

Bed bugs can be tough to find if you don't know where to look. Having a good inspection plan and a diligent attitude are essential to detect bed bugs. Here are some key locations to consider in your search.

Common Sources of Acquiring Bed Bugs

• Used clothing
• Used furniture
• Fabric seating
• Public transportation
• Movie theaters
• Schools, daycare and offices