Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed. They do not have wings, and you can see them without a microscope.

Bed bugs make small, red, itchy bites, often in a straight line. Bites usually show up on skin that is exposed while you sleep, such as your neck, arms, and legs.

Flea bites look different. They appear in random places and often have a dark red spot in the center.

Who can get bed bugs?

Anyone can get bed bugs. You can bring them home if you visit a place that has them.

Where do bed bugs live?

Bed bugs hide in places close to where people sleep, such as:

Mattresses and box springs
Bed frames and headboards
Cracks in furniture, floors, or walls
Window sills and picture frames

What do bed bugs eat?

Bed bugs feed on the blood of people or animals while they sleep.

How long do bed bugs live?

At room temperature, bed bugs can live for about one year if they have regular access to blood. Without food, they usually die within 70 days.

Are bed bugs dangerous to my health?

Bed bugs are not known to spread disease. However, some people may have an allergic reaction to several bites. If this happens, contact a healthcare provider.

How can I keep bed bugs out of my home?

Most infestations happen when someone brings used furniture into their home.

To protect your home:

Do not pick up used furniture or mattresses from the curb or trash areas.
Be careful when buying used furniture online or from secondhand stores. Check seams and creases for bed bugs.
Review Bed Bug Prevention Methods for more tips.

How can I prevent bed bugs while traveling?

Travel is one of the most common ways people encounter bed bugs.

When you arrive at a hotel or motel:

Place your suitcase in the bath tub until you inspect the luggage stand and the room. The smooth surface makes it hard for bed bugs to climb or hide.
Keep the luggage stand away from the wall.
Pull back the bedding at the head of the bed and look for bugs, small black dots (their poop), or blood stains.
Check the seams of the mattress and box spring.
If you see signs of bed bugs, tell hotel staff and ask for another room.

When you return home:

Unpack your luggage in a location outside your bedroom.
Wash all clothing right away.
Inspect your suitcase before storing it.

For more information, watch the Travel Tips video or read Bed Bug Prevention Methods.

How do I know if I have a bed bug problem?

You may notice:

Itchy bites on your skin
Small blood stains from crushed bugs on your mattress
Dark spots (bed bug poop) on your mattress

Look closely at mattress seams, bed frames, and nearby furniture.

Read How to Identify a Bed Bug Infestation for more details.

How can I get rid of bed bugs?

If you think you have bed bugs, read Bed Bug Treatment: What you Should Expect for steps to take next.

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (resources also available in Spanish)
Virginia Department of Health

Need Help?

If you do not feel comfortable with do-it-yourself methods to get rid of bed bugs, you may decide to hire a pest control company. Here are some tips for hiring a pest control company.

The Environmental Health Program may become involved in situations where bed bugs are reported at a public facility, long-term care residence, or child care facility. Contact us at 703-228-7444, option 4 or EHVector@arlingtonva.us for more information.