Where do bed lice appear? - briefly
They inhabit seams, folds, and hidden cracks of mattresses, box springs, bed frames, adjacent furniture, and can also be present in luggage or clothing. They conceal themselves during daylight and become active at night to feed.
Where do bed lice appear? - in detail
Bed lice, commonly known as Cimex lectularius, inhabit environments that provide regular access to human hosts and suitable hiding places. Their presence is most frequent in:
- Mattress seams, folds, and the underside of box springs.
- Bed frames, headboards, and footboards where cracks or crevices exist.
- Upholstered furniture, especially sofas and armchairs with removable covers.
- Carpets and floor coverings near sleeping areas.
- Wall hangings, picture frames, and curtain rods that contain narrow gaps.
- Luggage, backpacks, and clothing stored in closets or under beds.
- Public accommodations such as hotels, hostels, dormitories, and shelters where turnover of occupants is high.
Infestations also occur in temporary residences, including campsites and RVs, when bedding or clothing becomes contaminated. Bed lice survive for several months without feeding, allowing them to persist in rarely used rooms, storage closets, and even in office chairs if a person has spent extended periods there. Their distribution follows the pattern of human activity, concentrating in locations that offer concealment and proximity to blood meals.