Discovering that you might have bed bugs is enough to make any San Jose homeowner uneasy. These tiny pests are masters at hiding, and because they’re nocturnal, you might not see them at all during the day. But while they’re elusive, bed bugs do leave behind plenty of clues. If you’re asking yourself, “How do I know if I have bed bugs?”—you’re not alone. At Citra Pest Control, we help South Bay homeowners identify and eliminate bed bug infestations before they spiral out of control.

In this article, we’ll break down the signs of a bed bug infestation, what to look for in your home, and what steps to take if you suspect these unwanted visitors have moved in.

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and can live in beds, furniture, carpets, and wall cracks. They come out mostly at night to feed while you sleep. These pests don’t jump or fly, but they are fast crawlers and excellent at hiding.

Though bed bugs don’t transmit disease, their bites can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, insomnia, and anxiety—making early detection essential for your comfort and health.

Top Signs You Might Have Bed Bugs

If you’re wondering how to tell if you have bed bugs, here are some of the most common warning signs to look for in your home:

1. Unexplained Bites

Bed bug bites are usually the first clue. These bites tend to appear in small clusters or straight lines on areas of the body exposed while sleeping, like arms, legs, back, and neck. They often resemble mosquito bites and can become red, itchy, or inflamed.

While bites alone aren’t proof of a bed bug problem, they are a strong indicator—especially if you notice them appearing overnight.

2. Rust-Colored Stains on Sheets or Mattress

As bed bugs feed, they may leave behind small blood stains on your bedding. You might also find dark, rust-colored spots caused by crushed bugs or their droppings.

Check your mattress seams, sheets, pillowcases, and nearby furniture for these telltale signs.

3. Shed Skins and Eggshells

As they grow, bed bugs shed their exoskeletons. These pale yellow shells are about the size of a poppy seed and may be found in crevices near beds or baseboards. In the same areas, you might also spot tiny white eggs (about 1mm long), which are often glued in place and hard to spot without a flashlight and magnifying glass.

4. Musty Odor

In severe infestations, bed bugs produce a distinctive musty or sweet odor that some describe as smelling like coriander or wet laundry. This scent comes from pheromones released by the bugs and may become noticeable in infested rooms or furniture.

5. Live Bugs in Seams, Cracks, and Corners

Bed bugs tend to hide in cracks and crevices, especially close to where people sleep. Common hiding places include:

• Mattress seams and box springs
• Headboards and bed frames
• Behind baseboards and wallpaper
• Inside nightstands and electrical outlets

Use a flashlight and inspect these areas closely. If you see flat, reddish-brown insects crawling away when disturbed, it’s time to take action.

Where to Look for Bed Bugs

You don’t need to tear your house apart to find bed bugs, but you do need to be thorough. Start with your bed and expand your search outward:

• Remove your sheets and inspect the mattress seams, tags, and under the box spring.
• Examine furniture close to the bed, especially fabric chairs or upholstered couches.
• Look in cracks along walls, floorboards, and around baseboards.
• Don’t forget luggage, backpacks, and other fabric items that might carry bugs in.

What to Do If You Find Bed Bugs

If you confirm any signs of bed bugs, don’t panic—but do act quickly. These pests reproduce rapidly, and waiting too long can lead to a more widespread infestation.

Start by:

• Washing and drying all bedding, clothes, and fabrics on high heat.
• Vacuuming mattresses, carpets, and furniture thoroughly.
• Sealing items in plastic bags if you suspect they’re infested.

However, home remedies alone are rarely enough. DIY sprays and cleaning can miss eggs or bugs hiding deep inside walls or furniture.

Call in the Experts at Citra Pest Control

The most effective way to eliminate bed bugs is to call a trusted professional. Citra Pest Control specializes in safe, thorough bed bug inspections and treatment in San Jose and surrounding areas. Our team uses advanced techniques—including heat and steam treatments—to eliminate bed bugs at every life stage.

When you choose Citra Pest Control, you’re getting more than just a quick fix. We offer:

• Fast and discreet inspections
• Customized treatment plans
• Long-term prevention strategies
• Friendly, local experts who care about your peace of mind

Pay Attention & Contact Citra Today

So, how do you know if you have bed bugs? Pay attention to the signs—bites, stains, smells, and sightings—and don’t hesitate to investigate further. If you’re still unsure, a professional inspection can give you clarity and peace of mind.

Don’t let bed bugs take over your home. Contact Citra Pest Control today to schedule an inspection and start your journey to a pest-free home.