Bed Bugs
Same-day bed bug removal for Montreal homes, apartments, and businesses
Home › Pests We Treat › Bed Bugs
Identification Snapshot
| Colour | Reddish-brown, darkening further after a blood meal |
| Size | 4–7 mm, about the size of an apple seed |
| Description | Flat, oval-shaped, wingless insect that swells and darkens after feeding on blood |
How to Identify Bed Bugs
Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, flat, reddish-brown insects that feed exclusively on blood, usually at night while you sleep. Unfed bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed and nearly flat; after feeding, their bodies swell and turn a darker, more rounded reddish-brown. They have no wings and cannot fly or jump, but they move quickly across floors, walls, and ceilings, and are experts at hiding in tight seams and cracks.
Key Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
- Bite marks: itchy, red, slightly swollen bites, often in a line or cluster, usually on arms, legs, neck, or hands — can take up to two weeks to appear
- Stains on bedding: small reddish-brown stains and dark, ink-like droppings along mattress seams, box spring corners, and bed frame joints
- Shed skins & eggs: pale, translucent shed skins and pinhead-sized eggs tucked into seams and crevices
- The bugs themselves: flat, oval, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed, often found along mattress seams
- A sweet, musty odour: often signals a heavier, more established infestation
What to Do If You Find Bed Bugs
Do
- Bag and wash bedding and clothing on the hottest safe setting
- Vacuum mattress seams, baseboards, and cracks thoroughly
- Note every room where you’ve seen bites, stains, or bugs
- Call a licensed professional for an inspection as soon as you suspect an infestation
Don’t
- Move mattresses or furniture to other rooms before treatment — this spreads the infestation
- Rely on store-bought foggers or “bug bombs” — they rarely reach bed bugs hiding in seams and cracks
- Wait and hope it resolves on its own — infestations grow quickly and treatment gets more expensive
- Throw out furniture without professional guidance — bed bugs can survive to reinfest a new location
How to Prevent Bed Bugs
- Inspect secondhand furniture, mattresses, and clothing carefully before bringing them inside
- Use protective, zippered encasements on mattresses and box springs
- Vacuum regularly, especially along baseboards, seams, and cracks
- Reduce clutter around beds and sitting areas to limit hiding spots
- Inspect luggage and clothing after travel or overnight stays, especially in hotels
- Be cautious with used or curbside furniture
Habitat, Diet & Behaviour
Bed bugs are nocturnal, hiding during the day in mattress seams, box springs, bed frames, baseboards, and other tight cracks close to where people sleep. They feed exclusively on blood, typically every five to ten days, and can survive for months without a meal. Bed bugs don’t build nests like ants or wasps — instead they cluster in groups near a reliable food source. They spread primarily by hitching a ride in luggage, clothing, and used furniture, which is why infestations often show up first in bedrooms before spreading to other rooms if left untreated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have bed bugs?
Look for itchy bite marks in a line or cluster, small reddish-brown stains on bedding, and pinhead-sized shed skins or eggs along mattress seams. Since bites can resemble other insect bites, a professional inspection is the most reliable way to confirm bed bugs.
Do bed bugs spread disease?
Bed bugs are not known to transmit disease to humans, but their bites can cause itching, skin irritation, and in some cases an allergic reaction.
Can I get rid of bed bugs myself?
Store-bought sprays and foggers rarely reach bed bugs hiding deep in seams and cracks, and can actually scatter an infestation into other rooms. Professional treatment targets the source directly.
How long does bed bug treatment take?
Most infestations require an initial treatment and a follow-up visit a couple of weeks later to catch any eggs that have since hatched.
Are pets at risk from bed bugs?
Bed bugs prefer human blood but can bite pets. They are not known to transmit disease to pets, but a heavy infestation can still cause skin irritation.
Why Choose Optima Extermination
Fast, discreet, and reliable pest control solutions designed to eliminate problems and keep them from coming back.
Licensed Experts
Our trained and certified technicians use safe, proven methods to handle every pest problem professionally and effectively.
Safe & Effective Treatments
We use industry-approved products and techniques that are safe for your home, family, and environment.
Fair & Transparent Pricing
Clear estimates with no hidden fees — just honest pricing and reliable service you can trust.
Fast Response
We act quickly to assess and treat infestations, helping you regain control of your space without delay.
Proven Results
Our methods are designed to eliminate pests at the source and reduce the risk of future infestations.
Discreet Service
We respect your privacy with low-profile, professional service for homes, apartments, and businesses.
Client Reviews
Real feedback from Optima Extermination customers across Montreal.
“What an amazing experience with Optima Extermination! The team was professional, knowledgeable, punctual, and incredibly thorough. They took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all of our questions, and made the entire process easy and stress-free. As soon as I called for the service, they were at my door the next morning!”
— Leah D.
“Incredible service from Optima! I called on Sunday morning and by mid afternoon the technician was here to deal with my large wasp infestation. Not only did he take care of the problem, he reassured me that he would come back promptly if I needed further assistance. I highly recommend this company.”
— Dale M.
“We had a great experience with this exterminator. The service was excellent, professional, and reliable. They took the time to explain the problem, provided helpful advice, and made sure we understood the best steps to take. Highly recommended.”
— Vanessa R.
“I called about a mouse problem in my basement, and they came the very next day. Within just two days, the mice were gone! He politely explained the procedure, answered all of my questions, and was friendly and professional throughout. 10 stars!!!!”
— Mel DS.
“My neighbor had a bed bug problem. I called a few extermination companies for my condo as well. In the end, I chose Optima Extermination, and it turned out to be a great choice. The welcome was very warm, the work started right away, and the products used proved very effective. What surprised me most was how friendly and attentive Mr. Gil and his team were, during and after the work.”
— Thanh N.
Residential
Waking up with unexplained bites or spotting stains on your sheets? We’ll confirm the infestation and treat it at the source.
Commercial
Bed bugs in a hotel, rental property, or office can spread fast and hurt your reputation. Get a professional inspection and plan.
Backed by Optima Extermination’s service guarantee — Montreal’s trusted name in pest control.