The phrase, “Don’t let the bed bugs bite,” has become less of a nursery rhyme and more of a cautionary tale, as these resilient pests have made a strong return across the United States.

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, reddish-brown, wingless insects about 1/4 inch long that feed exclusively on the blood of humans and other warm-blooded animals. Their flat bodies allow them to hide in cracks, mattress seams, furniture joints and behind headboards.

Bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene; they can affect anyone, regardless of cleanliness.

Adult bed bugs resemble apple seeds and turn from brown to purplish red after feeding. Nymphs are smaller and nearly colorless, making them harder to spot. Common signs of infestation include:

• Live bugs in mattress seams or furniture joints

• Tiny, dark reddish-black fecal spots on linens

• Shed exoskeletons

• Tiny white eggs in cracks or crevices

The University of Minnesota Extension notes that bed bugs are expert travelers, easily spreading through luggage, clothing and used furniture. Their bites vary in effect: Some people show no reaction, while others develop red welts, rashes or hives. Importantly, bed bugs are not known to transmit diseases, but the psychological toll — anxiety, insomnia, embarrassment — can be severe. Because females can lay up to 500 eggs in their lifetime, early detection is critical to preventing explosive growth.

Misidentification is common; university researchers found that most samples submitted for identification were not bed bugs. Proper identification is crucial for effective management.

What can you do about bed bugs? When traveling, inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs. Check the mattress seams and the headboard for bed bugs and store luggage on a metal rack away from the bed. Be cautious of secondhand furniture unless thoroughly inspected.

If you have bed bugs, experts recommend a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to prevention and control:

Launder bedding and clothing in hot water and dry on high heat (120 degrees F /48 degrees C or higher for at least 20 minutes. Items that can’t be washed should be sealed in plastic bags and frozen at 0 degrees F for at least three days.

• Daily vacuuming of infested areas (mattresses, carpets, cracks) removes the bugs. Immediately seal and dispose of vacuum bags outdoors.

• Use sealed mattresses and box spring encasements to trap bugs and prevent new infestations.

• Move beds away from walls and place interceptor traps under each leg.

DIY methods may not be enough because of bed bugs’ resilience and ability to hide. Professional help may be needed to get rid of them. Professionals can use targeted insecticides and, when necessary, whole room heat treatments.

Multiple visits can be needed to ensure all bugs, including newly hatched nymphs, are eradicated.

If you find something you think might be a bed bug and would like it accurately identified, bring a sample of it into the plant and pest clinic located in the OSU Mahoning County Extension Office. Make sure the sample is in a tightly sealed container.