I found two bed bugs but no other signs. Is it an infestation?

by J.
(Peru, Indiana)

Found dead on bathroom floor

I found a bug in my bathroom that I was pretty sure was a bed bug. We bombed the house, took apart and sprayed the beds and mattresses, and washed everything, but never found more bugs or evidence. A week later I found a smaller one in the same bathroom. My boss has had bed bugs for at least 6 months, so I'm worried I'm bringing them home. I treat my work bag and keep my things in a tote. Is it possible I only brought home two and found them in time?

Editor Response

Hi J.,

It's possible. Bed bugs are good hitchhikers, and finding a couple near where bags are set down fits that pattern. But two bugs a week apart, one of them smaller, could also mean they're breeding, so keep checking. A few tips: bug bombs don't reach bed bugs where they hide and can spread them, so skip them. Save any bug you find in a small vial of rubbing alcohol and have it identified; your county extension office can help. Put interceptor cups under each bed leg and check them weekly, and keep inspecting mattress seams and the bed frame. At work, keep your bag in a sealed plastic tote, and when you get home, put work clothes in a hot dryer for 30 minutes. See our guide to the signs of bed bugs.