Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
Quick ID Markers
Habits & Biology
Strictly blood-feeding, feeding every 5–10 days at night. Highly cryptic — hides in seams, cracks, and voids near sleeping areas. Cannot fly or jump.
Typical Hiding Areas
Mattress seams, box spring, bed frame joints, headboard, nightstand, baseboards near bed, picture frames, electrical outlets.
Signs of Activity
🗓️ Seasonality
Year-round indoors. Peaks in summer (travel season increases spread).
⚠️ Mistaken Identity
🧪 Treatment Plan
Bed bug elimination requires a multi-method approach: heat, chemical treatment, and encasements. Do not rely on sprays alone. Expect 2–3 treatments over 3–6 weeks.
Professional heat treatment is the gold standard. DIY is possible for light infestations but heavy infestations (multiple rooms, months-long) almost always need a professional.
Use a flashlight and credit card to inspect mattress seams, box spring, bed frame joints, headboard, and baseboards. Collect a sample if possible.
Prevention After Treatment
- •Inspect hotel rooms before unpacking
- •Never put luggage on the bed — use luggage racks
- •Inspect secondhand furniture before bringing inside
- •Use mattress encasements as ongoing prevention