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What do bed bugs look like on bed sheets?

Ehrlich Answers

"What do bed bugs look like on bed sheets, and how can I tell if the tiny spots are actually bugs?"

Adult bed bugs are small, reddish-brown, and roughly the size of an apple seed, about 4-5 mm long. On white or light-colored sheets, they can appear darker, making them easier to spot. Nymphs, or baby bed bugs, are smaller and lighter in color, often translucent or pale yellow, which can make them harder to see at first glance.

However, you are often more likely to notice other signs of bed bugs before seeing the bugs themselves. Tiny blood stains on your sheets, dark spots from droppings, shed skins, or a musty odor are often the first indicators of an infestation.

A close-up of a bed bug on white bedding

It’s also important to inspect for bed bugs in a mattress, not just on the top layer of bedding. They can hide deep inside seams, piping, and under tags, making them harder to detect. If you notice small clusters of tiny, dark specks or shed skins, it could indicate that bed bugs have made your mattress their home. Also, check the headboards, bed frames, and furniture near the bed. Bed bugs are excellent hiders, and can even be found behind picture and electrical sockets.

Bed bugs are notoriously hard to get rid of, so if you suspect an infestation, it’s best to contact our bed bug control team for professional help

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