Bedbugs can appear out of nowhere: Here's how to recognize them and get rid of them

Bedbugs can easily infiltrate homes and, once present, are notoriously difficult to eliminate. These tiny pests, which feed on human blood, have become a growing problem in households worldwide, often hitching rides on luggage after travel.

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Adult bedbugs are reddish-brown and about 4 to 7 millimeters in size.

Their ability to hide well and their nocturnal habits mean their presence can go unnoticed until an infestation becomes significant. Adult bedbugs are reddish-brown, measuring about 4 to 7 millimeters. They are most active at night, retreating during the day to cracks in furniture, mattresses, and fabric folds near sleeping areas.

Signs of an infestation include small dark spots on bedding or other surfaces, which are their droppings. While their bites are not typically painful or dangerous, they can cause redness, irritation, and itching in some individuals, while others may show no reaction at all. This lack of immediate reaction can delay detection until the population has grown substantially.

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Their bites are generally not painful or dangerous, but in some people they can cause redness, irritation, and mild itching, while in others the skin does not react at all.

Recent research suggests that bedbugs might play a role in spreading certain microorganisms. A 2023 study indicated that bedbugs could come into contact with bacteria like MRSA while feeding on an infected person and carry it to their next meal. While not definitive proof of human-to-human transmission, this raises questions about their potential role in spreading infections, according to Toronto City News.

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Scientists point out that this is not explicit proof that bedbugs transmit MRSA from person to person, but it shows that their role in the spread of certain bacteria may require further research.

Preventing an infestation is key. Experts recommend inspecting hotel rooms, particularly mattresses and bed frames, before unpacking. Upon returning home, washing clothes immediately and inspecting luggage can help catch any stowaways early. Caution is advised when purchasing used furniture or clothing, as bedbugs can survive outside their original environment. Thoroughly inspecting such items and treating textiles with hot water washing and drying can help, as can steaming or vacuuming certain objects. Items suspected of harboring bedbugs should not be brought into the home immediately. If an infestation occurs, random insecticide use is often ineffective due to developing resistance. A systematic approach, potentially involving professional pest control services, is recommended, utilizing methods like controlled heating or appropriate chemical treatments.

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Better to prevent than to treat, so the best protection against an infestation still begins before bedbugs even get into the home.