How long do fleas live on a bed? - briefly
Fleas can persist on a mattress for roughly two to three weeks without feeding, and up to several months if they locate a host.
How long do fleas live on a bed? - in detail
Fleas can persist on a mattress for several weeks, but survival is limited without a blood source. An adult flea requires a host to feed; without one, it can endure roughly 2–3 days before dehydration becomes fatal. However, eggs and larvae can remain in the bedding for much longer, protected by dust and fabric.
Key time frames
- Adult stage: 48–72 hours without a blood meal; up to 5 days in a humid environment.
- Eggs: hatch within 1–5 days, depending on temperature and moisture.
- Larvae: develop for 5–20 days, feeding on organic debris in the fabric.
- Pupae: remain dormant for weeks to months, waiting for vibrational cues from a host.
Factors influencing duration
- Temperature: 70–85 °F (21–29 °C) accelerates development; colder conditions extend dormant periods.
- Humidity: 70 % relative humidity supports egg and larval survival; low humidity hastens desiccation.
- Host availability: Frequent human or pet presence supplies blood, extending adult lifespan.
- Bedding material: Fibrous fabrics retain organic matter, providing food for immature stages.
When a bed is unoccupied for a month or more, most adult fleas will die, but eggs, larvae, and pupae may still be present. Thorough cleaning—vacuuming, washing linens at 130 °F (54 °C), and applying an approved insecticide—eliminates all life stages and prevents re‑infestation.