Danger Level: 4/5

Bed Bugs

Cimex lectularius

Bed bugs are flat, oval, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed (4-7mm). After feeding, they become more elongated and darker. Nymphs are smaller and lighter colored. They leave distinc...

Quick Facts

Size4-7mm (apple seed size)
ColorReddish-brown (darker after feeding)
Lifespan6-12 months
Active SeasonsYear-round
Common LocationsMattresses, Bed frames, Furniture

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Identification

How to Identify Bed Bugs

Quick Answer

Bed bugs are flat, oval, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed (4-7mm). After feeding, they become more elongated and darker.

Bed bugs are flat, oval, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed (4-7mm). After feeding, they become more elongated and darker. Nymphs are smaller and lighter colored. They leave distinctive dark fecal spots and shed skins near harborage areas.

Bed Bugs - showing key features for identification
Behavior

Bed Bugs Behavior & Habits

Understanding how bed bugs behave helps prevent infestations

Bed Bugs behavior and habitat

Bed bugs are nocturnal blood-feeders that hide in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas during the day. They're attracted to body heat and CO2. They can survive months without feeding and spread easily via luggage, furniture, and clothing. They don't transmit diseases but cause significant psychological stress.

Dangers

Bed Bugs Risks & Dangers

What bed bugs can do to your health and property

Health Risks

Bed bug bites cause itchy welts that may become infected from scratching. While they don't transmit diseases, infestations cause significant anxiety, insomnia, and psychological distress. Some people have allergic reactions to bites.

Property Damage

Severe infestations may require disposal of infested furniture. Professional treatment is expensive. Bed bugs spread easily to adjacent units in apartments.

Warning Signs

Signs of Bed Bugs Infestation

Look for these indicators in your home

Itchy bite marks in lines or clusters
Blood spots on sheets
Dark fecal spots on mattress seams
Shed skins near hiding spots
Sweet, musty odor in severe infestations
Live bugs in mattress seams, bed frame crevices

Bed Bugs in Boise & the Treasure Valley

Bed bug infestations have increased significantly in Boise over the past decade. They're commonly introduced via travel, used furniture, and adjacent apartment units. Early detection and professional treatment are essential for control.

Our Solution

How We Eliminate Bed Bugs

Professional treatment for complete elimination

Bed bug elimination requires comprehensive treatment including thorough inspection, heat treatment or chemical applications, and follow-up visits. We treat all harboring areas, not just beds. Complete elimination typically requires 2-3 treatments over several weeks.

Prevention

How to Prevent Bed Bugs

Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation

1
Inspect hotel rooms before unpacking
2
Keep luggage on hard surfaces, not beds
3
Inspect used furniture before bringing home
4
Use mattress encasements
5
Reduce clutter near sleeping areas
6
Act immediately if infestation suspected
FAQ

Bed Bugs Questions Answered

Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment

How did I get bed bugs?

Bed bugs are usually introduced through travel (hotels, airplanes), used furniture, visiting infested locations, or from adjacent apartments. They're not related to cleanliness.

Can I treat bed bugs myself?

DIY bed bug treatment rarely succeeds. Bed bugs hide in tiny crevices, resist many over-the-counter products, and require comprehensive treatment to eliminate. Professional treatment is strongly recommended.

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Similar Pests

Learn about other pests in this category

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