How long do bed bugs live in a sofa? - briefly
Bed bugs can persist in a couch for several months, generally 2–4 months when they obtain regular blood meals and up to 6–12 months if they remain unfed under cooler conditions. Their survival depends on temperature, humidity, and access to a host.
How long do bed bugs live in a sofa? - in detail
Bed bugs can persist on upholstered furniture for extended periods because the environment supplies shelter, warmth, and access to hosts. An adult insect typically lives between three and five months under optimal conditions, but survival can be prolonged when food is scarce. In a couch, the following factors influence longevity:
- Temperature: At 70‑80 °F (21‑27 °C) the average adult lifespan reaches 120 days. Cooler temperatures slow metabolism, allowing individuals to survive up to 200 days without feeding.
- Feeding frequency: After a blood meal, an adult may survive 2‑4 weeks without another host. Nymphs require more frequent meals; each stage molts after a successful feed, extending the overall life cycle.
- Moisture and humidity: Relative humidity above 50 % supports longer survival; low humidity accelerates dehydration and reduces lifespan.
- Harborage quality: Deep crevices, seams, and cushions provide protection from disturbance, enabling the insects to remain hidden for months.
The complete development from egg to adult spans approximately 30‑45 days, assuming regular blood meals and favorable climate. Consequently, a fully established infestation can endure for a year or more if the sofa remains untreated, because successive generations replace dying adults. Effective control requires thorough inspection, removal of infested fabric, and application of approved insecticide treatments to eliminate all life stages.