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Woman with bed bugs
JUNE 18, 2026

What Do Bed Bug Bites Look Like?

If you live in Virginia and suspect a bed bug infestation, recognizing the signs of bites is crucial to confirm the problem. Bed bugs are small, elusive pests that feed on human blood, usually at night, leaving itchy, red marks behind, which can easily be mistaken for other insect bites. Here’s what you need to know to identify bed bug bites:

1. Appearance

Bed bug bites are typically red, itchy, and swollen, with the following characteristics:

  • Size and Shape: The bites are usually small, round, and red. The size can vary slightly depending on the person’s reaction, but they’re generally about the size of a mosquito bite.
  • Clustered or Linear Pattern: Bed bug bites often appear in groups or a line (sometimes referred to as “breakfast, lunch, and dinner” marks) where the bug has fed multiple times on the same area of skin. You might see a straight line or a zigzag pattern of bites, especially on exposed areas like the arms, neck, face, or shoulders.
  • Swelling: The bites may become raised and more swollen over time, turning into welts that are tender to the touch.

2. Itching and Redness

The primary sign of bed bug bites is intense itching. The bites usually itch more than other types of insect bites, and the redness can intensify as you scratch them. This can lead to further irritation, making it harder to distinguish from other types of bites.

3. Multiple Bites in a Small Area

If you notice several bites in a small, concentrated area, especially around your arms, legs, neck, or face, it could be a sign of bed bugs. These bites are typically close together, often appearing as a cluster or in a line, since the bed bug feeds by moving along the skin.

4. No Central Puncture Wound

Unlike mosquito bites, which leave a small puncture mark at the center, bed bug bites generally don’t have a clear puncture. They appear as red, raised bumps that may look similar to flea bites but tend to have a more irregular shape.

5. Bites That Appear Overnight

Bed bugs are most active at night, feeding while you sleep. If you wake up to find bites that weren’t there the night before, it’s a strong indicator of a bed bug infestation.

Identifying Bed Bug Bites vs. Other Insect Bites

It’s important to differentiate bed bug bites from bites caused by other pests, such as mosquitoes, fleas, or mites. Here’s how they differ:

  • Mosquito Bites: Unlike bed bug bites, mosquito bites are typically more isolated and don’t appear in clusters. They also usually show up with a small central puncture mark.
  • Flea Bites: Flea bites tend to be more concentrated around the feet, ankles, and legs and are often more intensely itchy than bed bug bites.
  • Mite Bites: Mite bites can appear similar but are often accompanied by other symptoms like a rash or skin irritation.

What to Do if You Have Bed Bug Bites

If you suspect bed bug bites but are not sure, here’s what you can do:

  • Wash the Area: Gently clean the affected skin with soap and water to prevent infection.
  • Avoid Scratching: Scratching can worsen the irritation and cause infections.
  • Use Topical Creams: Over-the-counter anti-itch creams, like hydrocortisone, can help reduce itching and swelling.
  • Monitor the Situation: Keep an eye out for new bites or other signs of an infestation, such as blood spots on sheets or dark spots on your mattress.

Learn how to inspect for bed bugs.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you notice the telltale bites or other signs of bed bugs in your home, it’s important to act quickly. Bed bug infestations can spread rapidly, and DIY solutions may not fully eradicate them. Here’s when to call a pest control professional:

  • Multiple Bites: If you notice multiple bites in a row or on exposed areas like your face, neck, or arms, especially after waking up, it’s a strong indicator of bed bugs.
  • Visible Bed Bugs: If you spot a bed bug during the day or find bed bug eggs or shells, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection.
  • Persistent Bites: If bites continue to appear despite your efforts to clean or treat the affected areas, it’s time to consult an expert in pest control.

Identifying bed bug bites can be tricky, but knowing what to look for can help homeowners in Virginia detect infestations early. If you suspect a problem, it’s always best to contact a professional bed bug control company to assess and treat the issue. With prompt action and a bit of vigilance, you can protect your home from these nocturnal pests.