What should you cover yourself with so bedbugs don't bite? - briefly
Wear tightly woven, smooth fabrics such as high‑thread‑count cotton or polyester to prevent bed bugs from grasping the skin. Encase clothing in a bed‑bug‑proof barrier when feasible.
What should you cover yourself with so bedbugs don't bite? - in detail
To prevent bed‑bug bites, cover exposed skin with materials that deter the insects and create a physical barrier.
Tightly woven fabrics such as polyester, nylon, or high‑thread‑count cotton (≥ 200 TC) limit the insects’ ability to pierce the surface. Silk, while smoother, provides similar protection due to its tightly packed fibers. Avoid loosely knit wool, fleece, or loosely woven cotton, which allow the bug’s proboscis to reach the skin.
Treat clothing with a residual insecticide, preferably permethrin, to add a chemical deterrent. Commercially available insect‑treated garments retain efficacy after several washes; re‑apply according to product instructions.
Wear full‑length garments when in an infested environment: long‑sleeved shirt, long trousers, socks, and closed shoes. Tuck shirts into trousers and secure cuffs with elastic bands to eliminate gaps. Gloves and hats made from the same tightly woven or treated material further reduce exposed areas.
Supplement clothing with encasements for bedding. Mattress and box‑spring covers rated “bed‑bug proof” feature zippered seams and a fabric density that prevents penetration. Pillow encasements and duvet covers of the same rating add protection while you sleep.
If chemical treatment is undesirable, apply a thin layer of diatomaceous earth or silica gel to clothing and bedding. These powders abrade the exoskeleton of the insects, causing dehydration upon contact. Ensure even distribution and avoid inhalation.
Regular laundering at ≥ 60 °C (140 °F) kills any bugs present on garments or linens. After washing, dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure complete eradication.
In summary, use tightly woven or insect‑treated fabrics for all clothing, pair them with certified bed‑bug‑proof encasements, and maintain high‑temperature laundering. This combination creates a comprehensive barrier that effectively prevents bites.