Bed bug bites are one of the most common early signs. They usually appear in small clusters or lines on areas like your arms, legs, back, or neck places that are exposed while you sleep. Some people don’t react at all, while others get raised, itchy welts.

Tip: Bites alone don’t confirm bed bugs. But if you have them and one of the signs below, it’s time to take action.

Look for small black or dark brown dots roughly the size of a pen tip on your mattress seams, sheets, baseboards, or furniture. These spots are bed bug droppings and a clear sign they’re hiding nearby. 

As they grow, bed bugs shed their skin. You might find pale, empty bug shells in mattress seams, couch cushions, drawer joints, or under your bed. You might also see tiny white eggs (about 1 mm long), often stuck in cracks or fabric folds. 

In larger infestations, bed bugs release a sweet, musty smell. It’s often described as a mix of old shoes and coriander. If you notice an odd smell in your bedroom or on your sheets, and you don’t know where it’s coming from, check for other signs too. 

If you see an actual bed bug, especially during the day, you’re likely dealing with more than just one. Look in these spots:

• Mattress seams and box springs

• Cracks in the bed frame or headboard

• Behind baseboards and wallpaper

• Inside nightstands, dresser drawers, or electrical outlets

• Along couch seams and under cushions