McCloud Answers
We’ve noticed clusters of rust-colored spots on mattresses. Are these bed bug stains?
Bed bug stains typically appear in two distinct forms: dark fecal spotting and reddish-brown blood smears. Fecal stains appear as tiny, dark-brown or black circular dots, similar in size to a felt-tip pen mark. Bed bugs digest blood and excrete it as liquid, so it often soaks into the fabric, leaving a stubborn mark that smears when wiped with a damp cloth.
The second common type of bed bug stain is small, rust-colored blood spots on sheets or pillowcases. These occur when a bed bug is accidentally crushed by a person’s movement during or after a feed. In hospitality and healthcare environments, these stains are often found in clusters along mattress seams, behind headboards, or near the corners of box springs.
Identifying signs of bed bugs early is essential for preventing a large-scale infestation. Regular inspections of linens and bed frames can help facilities managers catch problems before they spread. If you discover these markings, a professional inspection and targeted bed bug treatment are required.
Professional Bed Bug Management
We understand that bed bug infestations can be problematic for a business’s reputation. If you think you might need help with professional bed bug management, our team is here to assist.