Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to detect, especially in the early stages of an infestation. However, there are several signs you can look for to determine if heat treatment is necessary. One of the most common indicators is the presence of small, rust-colored spots on your bedding or mattress, which are actually bed bug excrement. You might also notice tiny, translucent eggs or eggshells, often found in the seams of mattresses or crevices of furniture. Another telltale sign is the bites themselves—small, itchy red welts that often appear in a line or cluster. Unlike mosquito bites, bed bug bites may take longer to manifest and can be intensely itchy for several days. Additionally, a musty, sweet odor in your bedroom could indicate a significant infestation, as bed bugs release pheromones that produce this scent. If you wake up with unexplained bites or notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to act quickly. Delaying treatment can lead to a more widespread infestation, making eradication more challenging and costly.