Why do bed bugs appear in the bed? - briefly
Bed bugs infest mattresses because they need a warm, concealed location close to human hosts for blood meals. They are usually introduced through luggage, clothing, or second‑hand furniture that already contains an established population.
Why do bed bugs appear in the bed? - in detail
Bed bugs are attracted to sleeping surfaces because they provide a reliable source of blood meals, a stable microclimate, and easy access to human hosts. The insects locate a bed primarily through heat, carbon dioxide, and body odor emitted by a person at rest. These cues guide them to the mattress, box spring, and surrounding frame where they can hide during daylight hours.
Key factors that increase the likelihood of an infestation include:
- Proximity to hosts – Frequent occupancy creates a constant supply of nutrients.
- Warm, humid environment – Temperatures between 22 °C and 29 °C and relative humidity of 50‑70 % support development.
- Concealed refuge spaces – Seams, tags, and cracks in bedding provide protected sites for eggs, nymphs, and adults.
- Transport via luggage or clothing – Travel and second‑hand furniture introduce pests into a sleeping area.
- Clutter – Excess items near the bed expand hiding places and impede detection.
The life cycle reinforces the problem. After a female deposits 1‑5 eggs in a protected spot, they hatch in 6‑10 days. Nymphs progress through five molts, each requiring a blood meal. The entire cycle from egg to adult can complete in as little as four weeks under optimal conditions, allowing rapid population growth.
Control measures must target all three aspects: the host source, the environment, and the insects themselves. Effective strategies include:
- Eliminating harborage – Vacuum seams, launder bedding at 60 °C, and reduce clutter.
- Environmental modification – Maintain lower humidity, seal cracks, and use encasements on mattresses and box springs.
- Chemical or non‑chemical treatment – Apply approved insecticides to hiding spots, employ heat treatment (≥50 °C for several hours), or use cold exposure (≤-17 °C) for infested items.
Understanding the biological drivers and environmental conditions that draw these parasites to a sleeping surface enables precise intervention and prevents re‑infestation.