Bed bugs are not just a hotel horror story; they’re a growing concern in homes, rentals and multi-unit buildings throughout southern New England. These tiny pests are masters of stealth and can spread quickly if left unchecked. But don’t panic! Early detection and quick action can help prevent a full-blown infestation. Here are three signs you may have bed bugs, what to do and when to call in our pros.
Sign #1: Unexplained Bites or Itchy Welts
Waking up feeling like an all-you-can-eat buffet? Bed bug bites typically show up in clusters or lines, especially on exposed skin like arms, legs and neck. They’re often noticed after sleeping, which is exactly when bed bugs like to feed. Not everyone reacts to the bites, though, so just because you’re not scratching doesn’t mean they’re not around.
Sign #2: Tiny Blood Stains or Dark Spots on Sheets
If your sheets look like they’ve been through a tiny crime scene, that’s another red flag. You might see small blood smears from crushed bugs or little rust-colored spots (yep, bug poop) near mattress seams, pillows or corners of the bedding. Not exactly the kind of surprise you want in the morning.
Sign #3: Live Bugs or Shed Skins
Adult bed bugs are small, flat and reddish-brown—kind of like apple seeds with legs. You might also spot their molted skins or tiny white eggs tucked into seams, headboards or furniture cracks. They’re sneaky, but once you see one, it’s safe to assume there are more.
What To Do If You Have Bed Bugs
- Call Braman for an inspection and treatment plan.
- Don’t move infested furniture (you’ll just spread the problem).
- Wash and dry clothes and bedding on high heat.
- Vacuum like you’ve never vacuumed before—especially around bed frames and baseboards—then empty the bag or canister into a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it in an outdoor trash bin.
- Use mattress encasements to trap and monitor bugs.
- Avoid DIY treatments; they are often ineffective and allow the infestation to grow.
How We Can Help
We get it; bed bugs are a pain. But you don’t have to tackle them alone. At Braman Termite & Pest Elimination, our trained experts use advanced tools to inspect every nook and cranny. When needed, Team Bugsy, our canine scent detection team, uses dogs specially trained to detect even the smallest bed bug infestations with incredible accuracy.
Then we create customized treatment plans—from heat and chemical options to integrated approaches—and follow up to make sure they’re gone for good. We’ll even teach you how to prevent future issues, because nobody wants a repeat performance of the bed bug show.
Early detection is key. If you see signs you may have bed bugs, act fast. Don’t let a few bites turn into a big headache. Reach out for effective treatment that works.