Do bed bugs stink? Can you determine if you have a bed bug infestation through a distinct smell? This article will decide whether it is possible to identify bed bug infestation through certain unique odors around the home.

Dealing with a bed bug infestation begins with identifying if you have bed bugs in the first place. It is impractical to assume you have a bed bug infestation without adequately looking for signs of bed bugs in the first place. So, you might wonder – how do I know if I have bed bugs in my home? Do bed bugs stink?

Bed bugs infestation odor

Bed bugs do give off odor called alarm pheromones. This odor is typically released when bed bugs are disturbed. These smells can be similar to that of stink bugs. However, when the infestation is low, it is difficult to distinguish such odor. Some might discern it as a pleasantly sweet, musty odor. Think about a pile of clothes closed in a washing machine for several days or a pair of moldy shoes.

In truth, the smell only becomes unpleasant when you are dealing with a large infestation.

However, as said before, concentrating on finding bed bugs by the small isn’t a practical way to identify the infestation. It is better to look for other signs of bed bugs.

Other Signs of bed bugs

You can also look out for dark bloodstains on the bedding or sheets. Bed bugs will usually find spots close to the bed of their feeding source, so that is where you should look first. Consider the bed frames, mattress seams, headboards, and baseboards. You can also check behind pictures, electronics, and cracks and crevices in the walls. Do realize that bed bugs are challenging to find, so you might need a magnifying glass to lead the way. Besides your bed, you can also look for them in other furniture, chairs, and couches.

Other than the dark blood stains, you can also search for bed bug fecal matter. These are dark droppings and would usually have mixtures of bed bug skins in them. These skins look like the actual bugs but are lighter and empty. You can also search for bedbug eggs, but these are super tiny and resemble specks of rice.

What to do when you suspect a bed bug infestation?

Identify the infestation

The first step is to identify where the bed bugs are. Look for less obvious signs and serve in the most hidden spots, even those away from your bedroom.

Thorough cleaning

Next, you need to clean your entire home, including laundering your clothes and steam cleaning your carpets. Cleaning can help you deal with half of these infestations.

Use bed bug traps

You can invest in traps to be used around your bed, making it easier to trap bed bugs by using you as the bait

Consider bed bug deterrent sprays

Bed bug deterrent sprays are one of the most effective ways to get rid of bed bugs. However, be sure to follow the instructions correctly to keep yourself safe while applying them.

Concluding thoughts

Do bed bugs stink? Yes, they do emit an odor when disturbed. However, it’s not always easy to discern this odor. Bed bugs stink can only be higher and easily noticed then the infestation is severe. Therefore, you should also use other ways to identify bed bugs so you can choose the appropriate treatment to get rid of them.

Do Bed Bugs Smell?

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