Bed Bugs: Early Signs of Bed Bugs & What to Watch for Before It’s Too Late
Warning! This blog contains content that may be graphic to those with a disdain for bugs!
The earlier you catch a bed bug infestation, the easier it is to control. These tiny, elusive pests can hide in the smallest of spaces and multiply quickly—so it’s crucial to recognize the early signs of bed bugs before they spread throughout your home or business.
While bed bugs don’t transmit disease, their bites can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and stress-related issues like insomnia and anxiety. Not to mention, once they settle in, they’re notoriously difficult to remove without professional help.
What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?
Knowing what bed bugs look like is the first step in identifying an infestation:
Adult bed bugs are small—about 5 to 7 mm long—flat, oval, and reddish-brown in color.
After feeding, they swell and turn a deeper red.
Nymphs (young bed bugs) are smaller and almost translucent, making them harder to spot.
Eggs are white and resemble tiny grains of rice.
You might also notice their shed skins, which look like empty bug shells, near mattress seams or in corners.
Common Early Signs of Bed Bugs:
Bed bugs hide during the day and come out at night to feed, which means visible signs might be subtle at first. Look for these tell-tale indicators:
Red, itchy bed bug bites in clusters or lines (often on arms, legs, neck, or face)
Dark spots or rust-colored stains on sheets or mattresses (bed bug excrement or crushed bugs)
Shed skins or tiny white eggs in seams, baseboards, or furniture
A sweet, musty odor in heavily infested rooms
Live bed bugs in crevices, folds, or behind headboards
The first image in this series is showing a bed bug that has been considerably starved (it could have been months since it was fed)
Where Do Bed Bugs Come From?
You don’t need a dirty home to get bed bugs—they hitchhike! Some of the most common sources include:
Luggage after traveling
Secondhand furniture or clothing
Public transportation or hotel rooms
Shared housing, apartments, or office spaces
Once inside, they find a quiet hiding spot and begin breeding—laying hundreds of eggs over their lifespan.
What to Do if You Suspect Bed Bugs
If you’ve seen one or more signs listed above, don’t wait—bed bugs multiply quickly and won’t go away on their own. Professional inspection and treatment are highly recommended.
Want to know what to do next?
Check out our detailed guide on how to get rid of bed bugs here.Â
Call Cal King Pest Control for a free bed bug inspection today at (530) 673-6322
 Visit us online: CalKingPestControl.com
