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Insects

Bed Bugs

Cimex lectularius

Danger Level: 4/5Updated September 2026 · Boise, ID

IdentificationHow 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.

Full identification notes

Nymphs are smaller and lighter colored. They leave distinctive dark fecal spots and shed skins near harborage areas.

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Bed Bugs Behavior & Habits

Understanding how bed bugs behave helps prevent infestations

Bed bugs are nocturnal blood-feeders that hide in cracks and crevices near sleeping areas during the day.

More about their habits

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.

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.

Property Damage

Severe infestations may require disposal of infested furniture.

Full health and property details

Health Risks

While they don't transmit diseases, infestations cause significant anxiety, insomnia, and psychological distress. Some people have allergic reactions to bites.

Property Damage

Professional treatment is expensive. Bed bugs spread easily to adjacent units in apartments.

Signs of Bed Bugs Infestation

Look for these indicators in your home

Signs You Have Bed Bugs

What homeowners spot first

  1. Itchy bite marks in lines or clusters
  2. Blood spots on sheets
  3. Dark fecal spots on mattress seams
More signs to look for
  1. Shed skins near hiding spots
  2. Sweet, musty odor in severe infestations
  3. 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.

More on what we see locally

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 Handle Bed Bugs

What our approach looks like

Green Guard refers termites and bed bugs to trusted specialists.

Our full approach

They need specialized treatment, usually several visits, that covers every hiding spot, around the bed and beyond. If you think you have bed bugs, call (208) 297-7947 and we'll point you to a trusted specialist.

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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
More prevention steps
  1. Use mattress encasements
  2. Reduce clutter near sleeping areas
  3. Act immediately if infestation suspected

Bed Bugs Questions Answered

Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment

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How did I get bed bugs?

Quick answerBed 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?

Quick answerDIY 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.

Think You Have Bed Bugs?

If you think you have bed bugs, call (208) 297-7947 and we'll point you to a trusted specialist.

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Prefer to talk? Call (208) 297-7947

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