Bed Bug
Cimex lectularius
Bed BugsSmall, flat, oval, reddish-brown insect. Adult bed bugs are about 3/16 inch (4-5 mm) long, approximately the size of a pencil tip. Feeds exclusively on blood, usually at night. Hides in mattress seams, bed frames, cracks, and crevices. Small enough to hide in cracks smaller than the width of a credit card. At normal room temperature, bed bug eggs hatch in 6-17 days. Considerable variation in development rate even among individuals hatched on the same day makes timing treatments challenging. If not eliminated immediately when discovered, can become a tremendous problem. Infestations are increasing worldwide and are difficult to eliminate.
Control Methods
Recommended methods for controlling this pest
| Method | Type | Effectiveness | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEPA Vacuum Removal | Non-Chemical | None | |
| Steam Treatment for Bed Bugs | Non-Chemical | None | |
| Bed Bug Heat Treatment | Non-Chemical | None | |
| Crack and Crevice Aerosol | Chemical | Required | |
| Insect Dust Application to Voids | Chemical | Required | |
| Microencapsulated Formulation Application | Chemical | Required | |
| Bed Bug Crack and Crevice Residual Treatment | Chemical | Required | |
| Bed Bug Desiccant Dust Application | Chemical | Required | |
| Mattress and Box Spring Encasement | Mechanical | None | |
| Bed Bug Interceptor Installation | Mechanical | None | |
| Bed Bug Laundry Protocol | Non-Chemical | None | |
| Whole-Building Heat Treatment for Bed Bugs | Non-Chemical | None |
Common Harborage Locations
Where to find this pest during inspections
| Location | Why Found There | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Mattress Seams & Tufts | Close proximity to sleeping humans for blood meals, protection from light, tight hiding spots during day. | Critical |
| Box Springs | Numerous hiding spots in frame, close to sleeping humans, rarely inspected or cleaned. | Critical |
| Upholstered Furniture | Seams and crevices for hiding, warmth from human use, natural fibers provide food for some pests. | High |
| Wooden Furniture Joints | Cracks and crevices for harborage, darkness, near human activity areas. | Medium |
| Pet Bedding | Warmth, blood meal hosts present, fabric for harborage, flea eggs and larvae development. | High |
Important Disclaimer: The information provided in this knowledge base is for educational and reference purposes only. Pest management professionals should always consult current product labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), manufacturer instructions, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations as the definitive source of truth. Product formulations, application methods, safety requirements, and regulations may change over time. This information may be out of date and should not replace professional judgment, proper training, or required licensing and certifications.