Bed bugs has been in existence for thousands of years. They are not known to spread any diseases to humans even if they feed on blood. Most people are allergic to their bites. Finding bed bugs during the day isn’t an easy task, but this article will help you out.
What is a Bed Bug?
Bed bugs are small, flat insects from the genus Cimex that feed on blood, usually at night. Although bed bugs don’t spread diseases, they can cause a number of health impacts including skin rashes, sleep issues and discomfort.
When bitten, symptoms may take between minutes to days to appear and itchiness is generally present. Some individuals may have a fever or feel tired. Only uncovered areas of the body are affected.
Bed bug insects come primarily in two species, which are: Cimex lectularius (the common bed bug) and Cimex hemipterus, found primarily in the tropics. Their size ranges between 1 and 7 mm. Infestation is more frequent in high-density areas.
How to Find Bed Bugs During The Day
While bed bugs are most active at night, they can also be found during the day if you understand what they need to live their best lives.
These steps will help you find bed bugs during the day:
1. Search Beds and Furniture With a Flashlight
When searching for bed bugs during the day, start at the bed — which is the most common hiding spot for bed bugs and radiate outwards to check nearby walls, items and furniture. Mostly, bed bugs are likely found within 6 feet of the bed, although there are plenty of exceptions.
2. Search Cracks and Crevices With a Card
Bed bugs can hide in cracks and crevices as narrow as 2 millimeters. It will be difficult to see them inside even with a flashlight.
In this case, sliding a thin rigid card through any gap you can’t see will help you spot them. You can also use a business card, an old credit card or even a playing card and with the help of a vacuum cleaner you can capture the ones that are displaced from their hiding point. Use of tape is also an option, if you don’t have a vacuum handy.
Bed bugs are likely to hide inside the cracks and joints of wooden furniture, such as:
- Bookshelves
- Cabinets
- Drawers
- Nightstands
- Tables and chairs
3. Declutter
Decluttering old stuff like books, boxes, children’s toys and clothes which might be potential harborage areas for bed bugs, this can help remove bed bugs from your home.
Bed bugs are photophobic (afraid of light), and if they somehow find themselves in the light, they’ll immediately do a 180° turn and scurry towards the nearest shadow.
4. Set Traps
Use bed bug traps to catch bed bugs in your home. You’ll have a higher chance of finding bed bugs during the day, by setting the trap at night.
Types of bed Bug Traps Include:
- Bed Bug Interceptors (Recommended)
- CO2 Bed Bug Monitors
- Glue Traps
- Pheromone Traps (Lures)
- Volcano Bed Bug Detector
Likely Bed Bug Hiding Places
- Bed frame, headboard, and footboard
- Baseboards
- Bookshelves
- Couches and cushions
- Dressers
- Electrical outlets
- Mattress and box spring
- Nightstand
- Pictures and posters
- Pillows, pillowcases, and bed sheets
- Rugs and carpets
- Storage boxes
- Tables, desks, and chairs
- Vents and radiators
- Wallpaper
- Window frames and curtains
Common Signs of Bed Bugs
- Bloodstains on sheets
- Dark fecal marks
- Insect bites at night
- Live bed bugs
- Tiny grain-shaped eggs
- Translucent shell casings
- Unusual musty odor
Do Bed Bugs Have Wings?
Bed bugs are wingless. Adults do have an indication of wings called wing pads, but they do not fully develop into functional wings.
