Why do bedbugs appear and where do they hide? - briefly
Bedbugs infest environments when they are transported in luggage, second‑hand furniture, or clothing and find a reliable source of human blood. They hide in mattress seams, behind headboards, within wall cracks, and in the crevices of furniture and flooring.
Why do bedbugs appear and where do they hide? - in detail
Bedbugs become established when humans transport them inadvertently, when infested furniture, clothing, or luggage is introduced into a clean environment, or when a building experiences high turnover of occupants. Their survival is aided by warm temperatures, typically between 20 °C and 30 °C, and by the availability of blood meals. Overcrowded living conditions, poor sanitation, and frequent travel increase the likelihood of introduction and proliferation.
The insects hide in locations that protect them from disturbance and provide easy access to sleeping hosts. Common concealment sites include:
- seams, folds, and tufts of mattresses, box springs, and pillows
- cracks and crevices in bed frames, headboards, and nightstands
- baseboards, wall voids, and electrical outlet covers
- upholstered furniture, especially under cushions and behind seams
- luggage racks, suitcases, and travel bags
- wall hangings, picture frames, and curtains
- floorboards, carpet edges, and under rugs
Females lay eggs in these protected areas, and nymphs emerge and disperse to nearby hiding spots while seeking a blood source. Nighttime feeding occurs on exposed skin, after which the bugs retreat to their shelters to digest and molt. Understanding the pathways of introduction and the specific microhabitats they occupy enables targeted inspection and effective control measures.