Bed bugs are a problem that quickly takes over your home if not addressed right away. Even though they are tiny and sneaky, one of the most reliable hints to the existence of an infestation is the bed bug droppings. The ability to recognize bed bug droppings in a very early stage will allow you to identify the infestation and stop the infestation from getting worse. In this article, we will know how to identify bed bug droppings, why bed bugs are a dangerous health hazard, and how to successfully eliminate them.
What Are Bed Bug Droppings?
But before getting into identifying bed bug droppings, let us talk about what they are. Bed bug droppings or fecal spots are bed bugs’ waste after eating their blood from people or other animals. Since bed bugs eat blood, their droppings show up as tiny, black spots on walls close to their hiding place. Bed bugs prefer blood over other pests, making their droppings a unique appearance and often the best indication of infestation.
How to Identify Bed Bug Droppings?
The bed bug droppings are difficult to recognize because they are so small and do not seem to be unlike other pest waste. But you can always tell these from the rest of the household trash by paying close attention to their unique characteristics. Here is what to search for:
1. Appearance
Bed bug droppings tend to appear as black or brown dots that are more like ink stains. These spots are smaller than a pin head and generally grouped. The blackness is caused by the blood in their excrement that has been digested. If you believe that you have bed bugs, check your mattress, bed frame, sheets, and walls for dark, spherical spots.
2. Texture
Bed bug feces are almost watery compared with the hard remains of other insects. They are smudge-proof when fresh, and they leave a black mark when you wipe them. This smear can look like black ink. Bed bug droppings become dry and harder over time, but you can still see the stain.
3. Location
One of the best ways to confirm bed bug droppings is by checking common hiding spots. Bed bugs usually stay close to their food source (you) and hide in crevices and cracks during the day. Some common areas where you may find bed bug droppings include:
- Mattress seams and corners
- Headboards and bed frames
- Behind baseboards or under wallpaper
- Furniture cracks and joints
- Electrical outlets
If you find droppings in these areas, it is a good indication that bed bugs may be nearby.
4. Differentiate From Other Pests
You should also be able to identify bed bug droppings from pets like cockroach or rodent poop. The solid matter in cockroach waste is typically cylindrical shape, but the solid matter in rodent droppings is generally larger and pellet-like. By contrast, bed bug droppings form flat spots that smear easily when touched.
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Why Are Bed Bug Droppings Harmful?
But perhaps you are wondering if there is more to bed bug droppings than their sight hazard. Although the first concern is the indication of an infestation, bed bug droppings can cause some health issues, so it should not be ignored.
1. Allergic Reactions
Some people are allergic to bed bug droppings, and exposure to them may cause an allergic reaction. Scratches, sneezing, and rashes can all be signs. Sometimes, long-term exposure can cause respiratory problems especially if you suffer from asthma or allergies.
2. Health Risks
Although bed bugs do not spread disease directly, they do carry bacteria in their droppings. Left untreated, these bacteria can ruin bedding, furniture, and floors. After encountering bed bug droppings, you will need to clean it up so that you will not suffer any infection.
3. Psychological Stress
Bed bugs also can have profound psychological effects. There can be anxiety and stress when there are bed bug droppings, specifically near your sleeping or relaxing areas. It makes a person uncomfortable to know that these rodents are not the only ones living there, which can affect their overall well-being.
By identifying and treating bed bug droppings promptly, you can reduce the likelihood of these health and emotional issues escalating.
How to Treat Bed Bug Droppings?
When you observe bed bug droppings in your house, do not panic. It is a horrible thing to find out about but you can do a few things to cure the skin and stop it from getting worse. This is a comprehensive guide on how to remove bed bug droppings and protect your home from a future infestation:
1. Vacuum Thoroughly
It is essential to vacuum the affected areas completely. Check mattress seams, bed frames, headboards, and any gaps in the furniture where bed bugs might be hiding. A crevice tool-equipped vacuum is perfect for sneaking into tight spots where bed bug droppings accumulate. Dispose of the vacuum bag or vacuum canister immediately after you use it to prevent the spread of any leftover bed bugs or eggs.
2. Clean with Soapy Water
When you have vacuumed, wash the surface with hot soapy water. Bed bug droppings can stain the walls, especially on fabric or wooden floors. Sponge or swish the area, making sure to brush up all the obvious droppings. On mattresses and bedding look for places where bed bugs tend to hide – the seams and corners.
3. Use Disinfectants
After you wash it with soap and water, you need to disinfect the area. Bed bug droppings can also contain bacteria, so spraying disinfectant on furniture, walls, and floors can help sanitize the area. For fabric items, you can disinfect them with a fabric-safe disinfectant or wash them in hot water.
4. Launder Affected Bedding
Bed bug droppings tend to reside on the bedding, so it is crucial that you wash all infected sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water. Temperature will help clear out the feces, and destroy bed bugs or eggs that may have been hiding in your bedding. If possible, dry the bedding on high heat for an added layer of protection.
5. Seal Cracks and Crevices
Bed bugs live in these small cracks and crevices so sealing these areas is important. Seal holes and gaps in walls, floors, or furniture where the bed bugs may be hiding with caulk or sealant. With the eradication of these hiding places, you can prevent bed bugs from returning or laying eggs.
How to Prevent Bed Bug Droppings in the Future?
Once you have cleaned and treated the affected areas, prevention is key to avoiding future infestations. Here are some preventive steps you can take:
- Inspect Second-Hand Furniture: If you are purchasing used furniture, inspect it carefully for signs of bed bug droppings or other signs of infestation before bringing it into your home.
- Use Mattress Covers: Bed bugs often hide in mattress seams. Using a bed bug-proof mattress cover can prevent them from finding a home in your bed.
- Regularly Inspect Your Home: Make it a habit to inspect your bed, furniture, and other common areas for signs of bed bugs or their droppings. Early detection is the best way to prevent a major infestation.
- Declutter: Bed bugs love to hide in clutter. Keeping your living space tidy can reduce the number of hiding spots and make it easier to spot signs of an infestation.
When to Seek Professional Help?
In some cases, bed bug droppings are just the tip of the iceberg, and a larger infestation may require professional help. Consider contacting a pest control expert if:
- You find bed bug droppings in multiple rooms or areas of your home.
- DIY treatments have not been effective in eliminating bed bugs.
- The infestation seems to be worsening despite your efforts.
A professional pest control company will conduct a more detailed inspection and apply specialized methods to eliminate bed bugs. Please ensure you choose a company that specializes in bed bugs because removal of bed bugs requires certain knowledge and techniques.
Conclusion
Identifying bed bug droppings is one of the most effective ways to detect an infestation early. By learning how to spot these telltale signs and treating them promptly, you can protect your home and health from the negative effects of bed bugs. Whether you choose to handle the problem on your own or seek professional help, taking quick action is crucial to prevent bed bugs from taking over your living space. Keep an eye out for bed bug droppings and follow the tips in this guide to safeguard your home from these bed bugs.
