Despite their name, bedbugs are not confined to mattresses. They can take up residence in box springs, bed frames, headboards, upholstered chairs, furniture joints, behind baseboards, inside electrical outlets, behind picture frames, and even inside luggage and clothing.
They are most active at night and typically remain hidden during the day, which is one reason infestations can go unnoticed for weeks.
Five warning signs that point to a bedbug infestation
Early detection is critical, because smaller infestations are generally easier to control. There are five main indicators to look for.
Bite marks are often the first thing people notice — small red bumps or itchy welts, frequently appearing in groups or lines on exposed skin such as the arms, legs, neck, or face. However, not everyone reacts to bedbug bites, and similar patterns can be caused by other insects, so bites alone are not conclusive.
Tiny blood spots on sheets, pillowcases, or pajamas can appear when a bedbug is accidentally crushed after feeding. Dark droppings — described as tiny black dots or ink-like smears on mattresses or furniture — are considered one of the most reliable signs of an active infestation.
As bedbugs grow, they shed their outer shells. Finding pale, empty skins around mattress seams or furniture is another strong indicator. Finally, live adult bedbugs are visible to the naked eye, though they tend to emerge at night and hide during daylight hours.
