Bed bug infestations can be difficult to eliminate because the insects can hide in tiny cracks and survive treatment attempts that don't address the entire infestation.

Don't Rely on Home Remedies Alone

Online videos often recommend everything from essential oils to household chemicals as a way to eliminate bed bugs.

These approaches may not eliminate an established infestation and can sometimes create additional risks.

Never apply pesticides to your skin.

Never mix household chemicals.

And don't use products in ways that contradict their labels.

Professional pest-management advice is particularly useful when an infestation is extensive or repeatedly returns.

How to Reduce the Risk of Bringing Bed Bugs Home

When traveling, inspect hotel beds and surrounding areas before unpacking completely.

Keep luggage away from beds when practical.

After returning home, inspect luggage and clothing rather than immediately placing everything on the bed.

Used mattresses, upholstered furniture, and secondhand items should also be inspected carefully before being brought indoors.

These precautions don't provide perfect protection, but they can reduce opportunities for bed bugs to hitchhike into your home.

The Bottom Line

If you wake up with itchy red bumps, don't automatically assume they are bed bug bites.

Mosquitoes, fleas, mites, allergic reactions, skin conditions, and other causes can produce similar-looking marks.

Likewise, the presence of a tick—as shown in the inset of the image—does not mean you have bed bugs.

The most reliable approach is to look for physical evidence of an infestation and, when necessary, have the insect identified by a qualified professional.

If you do have bed bugs, don't panic and don't blame yourself. They are persistent pests, but infestations can be treated.

And remember: the appearance of your skin can provide a clue, but the bedroom environment provides much stronger evidence.