By Brad Janssen

Not every bite is “just a mosquito.” Learn how to recognize when bug bites may point to a bigger problem inside your home.

Key Takeaways

  • Bug bites in Iowa often come from mosquitoes, fleas, bed bugs, or spiders.
  • Repeated, unexplained bites may signal an infestation.
  • Location, timing, and appearance of bites can help narrow the source.
  • Professional inspection is the fastest way to identify and resolve the issue.

We all get the occasional mosquito bite in Iowa summers — but what about when you’re waking up with itchy red marks, or you keep finding bites with no sign of mosquitoes? In some cases, bug bites are more than just a nuisance — they’re a warning sign of a potential infestation inside your home. Knowing when to suspect an issue can save you time, discomfort, and costly treatments down the road.

Common Bite-Causing Pests in Iowa

  • Mosquitoes – The most common summer culprit, especially outdoors at dusk.
  • Fleas – Often introduced by pets; bites usually appear in clusters around ankles.
  • Bed Bugs – Small, itchy bites in rows or clusters, often appearing overnight.
  • Spiders – Less common but can cause painful single bites.
  • Biting Mites – Sometimes carried indoors by birds, rodents, or other animals.

Signs Bites May Point to an Infestation

  • Bites occur indoors, especially at night or after sleeping.
  • Clusters or patterns of bites, not random single marks.
  • Other indicators like blood spots on bedding, flea dirt on pets, or webs in corners.
  • Persistent activity even after using repellents or over-the-counter sprays.

Why Professional Identification Matters

It’s easy to confuse one bite with another. For example, flea and bed bug bites can look almost identical. That’s why a professional inspection is the best step forward. Janssen Pest Solutions technicians can identify the source quickly and recommend the right treatment — from bed bug control to residential pest plans that cover multiple pests.

Prevention Tips for Homeowners

  • Use screens and seal gaps to reduce mosquito and flea entry.
  • Check pets regularly for fleas and use vet-approved prevention.
  • Vacuum weekly and wash bedding in hot water to deter bed bugs.
  • Schedule seasonal pest control for year-round protection.

You May Have Missed

Check out these related blog posts for more pest prevention tips and seasonal insights:

Don’t let bug bites keep you guessing. If you’re noticing repeated, unexplained bites, schedule an inspection today. Contact Janssen Pest Solutions for expert identification and treatment to restore comfort to your home.

FAQs

Q: How can I tell if my bites are from bed bugs or mosquitoes?
A: Bed bug bites often appear in rows or clusters and show up overnight, while mosquito bites are more random and occur outdoors.

Q: Do spiders commonly bite in Iowa homes?
A: Spider bites are less common and usually isolated, but if you notice frequent bites, another pest is more likely.

Q: Can fleas bite even if I don’t have pets?
A: Yes — fleas can be introduced by visiting animals or wildlife around the property.

Q: When should I suspect bed bugs?
A: If you wake up with clusters of itchy bites and see blood spots or shed skins on bedding, it may be bed bugs.

Q: Will over-the-counter sprays get rid of biting pests?
A: They may offer temporary relief, but infestations typically require professional treatment.

Q: Are bug bites in Iowa dangerous?
A: Most are an annoyance, but some pests can transmit disease or cause allergic reactions.

Q: Do you offer same-day service for urgent infestations?
A: Yes — in many cases, we provide same-day pest control to address urgent bite-related issues.