I found one bed bug. Do I burn the mattress, move out, or what?

No. You found a bed bug, not a demolition permit. Put the matches down.

One confirmed bed bug deserves action. It doesn’t tell you whether you’ve caught a lone hitchhiker or discovered the welcoming committee.

Here’s your next move:

1. Capture the little bastard. Seal it in a clear bag or container and get identification from a pest professional or extension expert. A blurry photo and three itchy spots aren’t a verdict.

2. Inspect the ambush sites. Mattress seams, box spring, bed frame and headboard. Look for live bugs, dark fecal spots, shed skins and tiny pale eggs.

3. Don’t give them transportation. Don’t drag the mattress through the house or carry loose bedding into another room. Bag suspect laundry before moving it.

4. Keep the mattress off death row for now. Many belongings can be treated and saved. Throwing everything out can spread the problem while emptying your wallet.

5. Get a treatment plan. Arrange a professional inspection. If you rent, notify your landlord or property manager promptly so the response can be coordinated.

And no homemade flamethrower nonsense. Don’t try heating the room with space heaters, a fireplace or the thermostat. Professional heat treatment is controlled equipment and monitoring, not “let’s see how hot this place gets.”

We’re evicting the bloodsuckers. You get to keep the house.

Further reading: EPA’s bed bug control guidance
https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/do-it-yourself-bed-bug-control