If you are terrified of a thought of finding bed bugs in your house (and you actually should be), then you should check your living space from time to time, even when nothing suspicious is happening.
Knowing the very first signs can help deal with the issue sooner, and sometimes it's the only way to get rid of these insects completely.
Keep looking for these signs.
Look for bites
Bed bugs usually bite the exposed parts of the body during sleep, leaving behind itchy, red dots.
These bites are often arranged in a line or clustered pattern.
However, it's important to note that these bites can resemble bites from other insects, so additional signs are necessary for confirmation.
Little bloodstains on bedding
After biting, these bugs may leave behind little red or brown stains on your bedding.
They may appear like ink stains or small dots.
Musty odor
In severe cases, bed bugs release a distinct, sweet, musty odor.
This odor is often described as reminiscent of raspberries or almonds.
If you notice an unusual smell in your bedroom or throughout your house, it could be a sign of a severe bed bug issue.
The bed bugs themselves
Occasionally, you may spot live bed bugs themselves - crawling on your mattress, headboard, or other furniture.
Adult bugs usually are about the size of an apple seed, reddish-brown, and they have a flat, oval-shaped body.
Nymphs (young bed bugs) are typically smaller and lighter in color.