Bed Bug Control Knoxville

Worried You Have Bed Bugs in YOUR Knoxville Home? We're Here to Help.

“Sleep tight, and don’t let the bed bugs bite!” So goes the old adage. What happens when the bed bugs do start biting? How can you tell you have a problem before it gets too far advanced? Our Knoxville bed bug control professionals have over 50 years of experience providing reliable diagnosis and treatment. 

SIGNS YOU MIGHT HAVE BED BUGS

Worried you might have bed bugs? Knowing what to look for is the first step toward getting the help you need. Bed bugs are small and sneaky, but they often leave behind clear signs of their presence. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to contact Southeast Termite & Pest Control for a professional inspection and treatment plan.

Small Blood Spots on Bedding or Furniture

Bed bugs feed on human blood, and they often leave behind small, rust-colored stains where they bite or move. You may see:

• Small red or brown stains on sheets, pillowcases, or mattresses
• Smears or spots on upholstered furniture or walls near your bed
• Clues in hard-to-spot areas like seams, tufts, or mattress tags

Even if the infestation is new, these marks can be an early indicator. Be sure to check dark, quiet places behind headboards, baseboards, and in crevices.

Itchy Red Welts on Your Skin

Many people discover they have bed bugs because of how the bites appear and feel. Watch for:

• Small, raised, itchy welts (often in a straight line or cluster)
• Bites that appear overnight or worsen over time
• Skin irritation, especially on exposed areas like arms, legs, or back

Scratching can lead to infections, so it’s important to clean any bites with soap and water and seek professional help if you suspect bed bugs are the cause.

Unpleasant, Musty Odor

As bed bug infestations grow, they release pheromones that can create a distinctive scent. Be alert for:

• A sweet, musty odor near beds or furniture
• Stronger smells in enclosed spaces like closets or under mattresses
• A lingering smell even after cleaning

If this odor is noticeable alongside any of the above signs, it's a strong indication of a growing infestation.

What to Do If You Suspect Bed Bugs

If you’re seeing unusual bites, spotting tiny blood stains on your sheets, or simply have a gut feeling that something isn’t right—trust your instincts. Bed bugs can spread quickly, so acting fast is key to minimizing damage and stress. Here’s what you should do next:

Steps to Take Immediately:

• Don’t panic—but don’t delay. Bed bugs aren’t a sign of poor hygiene, but they do require professional attention.
• Avoid moving items between rooms. This can spread the infestation to other areas of your home.
• Strip your bedding. Wash all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers in hot water and dry them on high heat.
• Vacuum thoroughly. Focus on your mattress seams, box spring, headboard, baseboards, and the edges of furniture.
• Inspect surrounding areas. Look behind picture frames, under beds, and in dresser drawers for signs of bed bugs or their eggs.
• Skip DIY sprays. Over-the-counter treatments often push bed bugs deeper into hiding and make them harder to eliminate.

If you're unsure, take photos of what you see (bites, stains, or bugs) and show them to a licensed professional for a quick assessment.

Don’t Wait! Act at the First Sign

The earlier you identify a bed bug problem, the easier it is to treat. If you’ve seen stains, experienced itchy bites, or noticed an odd smell in your bedroom, call Southeast Termite & Pest Control today. We offer fast, discreet, and effective bed bug inspections and treatments to help restore your peace of mind.

Trusted by Knoxville Families Since 1971

Knoxville’s warm, humid climate creates ideal conditions for bed bugs to thrive during the summer months when activity tends to spike. That’s why routine inspections and preventive care are essential for local homeowners.

At Southeast Termite & Pest Control, we’ve been helping Knoxville families combat bed bugs since 1971. From historic homes to student apartments, we tailor our treatments to meet the specific challenges of this region’s climate. We also stay up to date with guidance from trusted sources like the Knox County Health Department to ensure our methods align with the latest best practices.

Whether you're in a single-family home or a rental property, you can count on our local knowledge, proven treatments, and community-first approach to help you reclaim your space.

Call Southeast Termite & Pest Control today at (865) 205-8435 or use our online contact form to request a free estimate.