Why do bedbugs bite feet? - briefly
Bedbugs are attracted to the heat, carbon dioxide and skin chemicals emitted by the feet, which are frequently exposed while a person sleeps. Their saliva contains anticoagulants that cause the itchy welts typical of a bite.
Why do bedbugs bite feet? - in detail
Bedbugs locate hosts by detecting heat, carbon‑dioxide, and volatile compounds released from the skin. The lower limbs are frequently exposed while a person lies in bed, providing an accessible source of these cues. The thin epidermis on the ankles and soles offers minimal barrier to the insect’s stylet, allowing rapid penetration and blood intake.
Key reasons the insects favor the feet:
- Proximity to the sleeping surface; bedbugs emerge from cracks in the mattress or floor and encounter the feet first.
- Higher concentration of attractants such as lactic acid, sweat, and skin bacteria that accumulate on the lower extremities.
- Reduced clothing coverage; socks or blankets are often removed or loosened during sleep, leaving the area uncovered.
- Warmth and moisture from the feet create a microenvironment that enhances feeding efficiency.
The feeding process begins with the insect inserting its proboscis into the skin, injecting anticoagulants and anesthetic agents to keep the bite painless. Blood is drawn until the insect’s abdomen expands, after which it retreats to its hideout to digest the meal. Although any exposed skin can be targeted, the combination of accessibility, attractant density, and minimal protective layers makes the feet a frequent site of attachment.
Understanding these factors helps in developing preventive measures such as encasing mattresses, keeping the floor clear of clutter, and wearing socks or foot coverings at night to reduce exposure.