Where do bedbugs hide at night?

Where do bedbugs hide at night? - briefly

During nighttime, bedbugs usually conceal themselves in tiny cracks and folds near the sleeping area, such as mattress seams, box‑spring edges, headboard joints, and furniture crevices. They can also be found in wall baseboards, picture‑frame hollows, and electrical outlet covers.

Where do bedbugs hide at night? - in detail

Bedbugs seek sheltered micro‑environments that protect them from light, temperature fluctuations, and disturbance. The most common refuges are the seams and folds of mattresses, box‑spring foundations, and pillowcases, where the insects can crawl unnoticed between the fabric layers.

Other typical hiding places include:

  • Cracks and crevices in bed frames, headboards, and footboards.
  • Upholstered furniture such as sofas, armchairs, and recliners, especially along stitching lines and under cushions.
  • Wall voids, baseboard gaps, and electrical outlet covers that provide dark, narrow spaces.
  • Luggage racks, suitcases, and travel bags left near sleeping areas, which often contain fabric pockets and zippered compartments.
  • Curtains, drapes, and blinds, particularly at the hem or where they attach to the wall.

In addition to these primary sites, bedbugs may occupy:

  • Behind wallpaper, picture frames, and wall art where thin layers of adhesive allow easy entry.
  • Under floorboards, carpet edges, and rug pads that create concealed tunnels.
  • Inside hollow objects such as books, stuffed toys, and decorative pillows that contain internal cavities.

The insects prefer locations that are within a few feet of a host, enabling rapid access to blood meals. They select areas with minimal foot traffic and low disturbance, allowing them to remain hidden for extended periods. Regular inspection of the listed zones, combined with thorough cleaning and sealing of cracks, reduces the likelihood of infestation persistence.