Bed bugs are not just a residential problem they are showing up in offices, breakrooms, lobbies, and even boardrooms. With more employees working in shared spaces and increased travel between home, hotel, and office, bed bugs have found new places to hitch a ride. And yes, your workplace might be one of them. If your employees are complaining about unexplained bites or you’ve spotted an unusual bug crawling on the couch in the lounge, it might be time to consider that bed bugs are hiding in the workplace. Bed Bug Free will share what you need to know if you have bed bugs infesting your office.
Why Offices Are Not Immune to Bed Bugs
While bed bugs are most associated with beds and bedrooms, these pests are excellent hitchhikers. They travel in briefcases, laptop bags, purses, coats, and even on clothing. Offices with high foot traffic, shared furniture, and limited cleaning routines create the perfect storm for a hidden infestation. Some high-risk areas in office settings include:
• Soft furniture in reception areas
• Breakrooms and lounges
• Cubicle partitions and under desks
• Coat closets and locker areas
• Conference room chairs
Commercial Bed Bug Inspection Tips
If you suspect bed bugs might be in your workplace, here are key inspection tips to follow:
Check Upholstered Furniture First: Inspect chairs, couches, and any soft seating for:
• Small reddish-brown bugs about the size of an apple seed.
• Black spots which is fecal matter.
• Shed skins or eggs in seams and crevices.
• Blood stains on fabric.
Look in the Least Expected Places: Bed bugs often hide during the day and come out at night. Check:
• Under desks and cubicle panels
• Around electrical outlets and light switches
• In baseboards and carpet edges
• Behind wall hangings and bulletin boards
Use a Flashlight and Flat Tool: Use a flashlight and a credit card or putty knife to gently inspect cracks and seams. Bed bugs prefer tight, dark spaces.
Monitor Employee Feedback: Keep track of any employees reporting bites, skin irritation, or sightings. Clusters of complaints in one area can indicate an infestation.
Consider Installing Interceptors: Bed bug interceptor traps placed under the legs of furniture can help confirm their presence over time.
What to Do If You Find Bed Bugs in the Office
If you suspect or confirm bed bugs in your workplace do not panic or self-treat, over-the-counter sprays may scatter bugs, making them harder to find. Limit movement of infested items. Moving furniture or equipment can spread the problem. Call a professional pest control company. A licensed technician can confirm the infestation and recommend appropriate treatment. Communicate clearly with staff and let employees know that the situation is being handled discreetly and professionally.
Bug Inspections & Removal in Greater Cleveland area as well as Akron, Canton, Solon, Parma and NE and NW Ohio
Bed bugs are not a reflection of cleanliness they are opportunists. In commercial and office settings, they can go unnoticed for weeks, slowly spreading through shared spaces and employee belongings. If you think your office might have unwanted visitors, contact Bed Bug Free and schedule our services today.
