What can attract bed bugs? - briefly
Warmth, carbon dioxide, and the presence of a blood source lure these insects, while cluttered surroundings, untreated mattresses, and cracks in furniture offer ideal hiding places. Frequent travel with infested luggage can also introduce them to new environments.
What can attract bed bugs? - in detail
Bed bugs are drawn to a combination of environmental cues and host characteristics that signal a suitable feeding site. The primary attractants include:
- Carbon dioxide emission – exhaled breath creates a concentration gradient that guides insects toward potential hosts.
- Body heat – temperatures between 30 °C and 34 °C mimic the warmth of a sleeping human or animal.
- Skin odor compounds – volatile substances such as lactic acid, ammonia, fatty acids, and certain aldehydes serve as chemical signals.
- Blood type and secretions – individuals with blood type O and higher levels of certain skin secretions tend to be more appealing.
- Clutter and hiding places – dense fabric piles, cracks, and crevices provide shelter and increase the likelihood of colonization.
- Moisture – humid environments support survival and encourage movement toward damp areas.
- Darkness – low-light conditions reduce detection risk and align with the insect’s nocturnal activity pattern.
Additional factors that indirectly promote attraction:
- Frequent travel – transport of luggage and clothing can transfer insects to new locations.
- Infested furniture – second‑hand items, especially upholstered pieces, often harbor hidden populations.
- Improper sanitation – accumulation of shed skins, fecal spots, and egg casings signals an established colony.
Understanding these cues enables targeted prevention strategies, such as reducing clutter, maintaining low humidity, and limiting exposure to carbon‑dioxide‑rich environments during sleep.