Bed Bugs vs. Fleas: How to Tell the Difference
If you’re waking up with itchy bites or spotting tiny insects in your home, you may wonder whether you’re dealing with bed bugs or fleas. These two pests can look similar at first but the difference between bed bugs and fleas is huge when it comes to treatment.
This guide breaks down how to identify each pest so you can get the right solution fast.
What Bed Bugs and Fleas Look Like
Bed Bugs
- Reddish-brown
- Size of an apple seed
- Flat, oval body
- Crawl slowly (they do NOT jump)
Fleas
- Dark brown or black
- Tiny around 1/8 inch
- Narrow body made for moving through fur
- Can jump up to 13 inches
Quick tip: If the insect jumps, it’s a flea.
Where You’ll Find Them in Your Home
Bed Bug Hiding Spots
- Mattresses + box springs
- Bed frames and headboards
- Couches and upholstered furniture
- Behind trim, seams, or wallpaper
- Luggage or travel items
Flea Hiding Spots
- Cats and dogs
- Pet bedding
- Carpets and rugs
- Under furniture
- Cracks in flooring
- Gardens and shaded outdoor areas
If you don’t have pets but suspect fleas, wildlife like rodents may be the source.
Bed Bug Bites vs. Flea Bites
Bed Bug Bites
- Appear in lines or clusters
- Often on arms, back, legs, and stomach
- Occur at night
- Itching varies
Flea Bites
- Small red bumps with a central red dot
- Mostly on ankles, feet, and lower legs
- Extremely itchy
- Can appear quickly after walking on carpets
If your lower legs are the main area affected, it’s likely fleas.
Signs of a Bed Bug vs. Flea Infestation
Signs of Bed Bugs
- Rust-coloured stains on sheets (droppings or crushed bugs)
- Tiny white eggs or shed skins
- Musty odor in heavy infestations
- Live bugs in mattress seams
Signs of Fleas
- Pets scratching more than usual
- Flea dirt (black specks that turn red when wet)
- Seeing fleas jump on furniture or carpets
- Bites concentrated on the ankles
Why Correct Identification Matters
Treatments for fleas and bed bugs are completely different:
- Fleas require treatment of pets, carpets, and sometimes the garden.
- Bed bugs require professional heat treatments or targeted chemical applications.
Misidentifying the pest can lead to wasted time and money.
Professional Pest Identification & Treatment
If you’re still unsure whether you’re dealing with bed bugs or fleas, Central Pest Control can help. Our certified technicians will:
- Identify the exact pest
- Inspect affected areas
- Recommend the safest and most effective treatment
- Provide follow-up service to ensure the infestation is gone
Schedule an Inspection Today
Don’t wait – pests multiply fast.
📞 Call Central Pest Control or
🌐 Book an inspection online today!
