Why do bedbugs live in a sofa? - briefly
Sofas provide concealed crevices that protect bedbugs from light and allow them to stay near sleeping occupants for regular blood meals. The upholstered structure shields them from disturbance, and moving furniture helps disperse the insects.
Why do bedbugs live in a sofa? - in detail
Bedbugs are attracted to sofas because the furniture offers stable hiding places, constant access to human hosts, and favorable microclimates.
The structure of a couch provides numerous seams, cushions, and fabric folds where insects can embed themselves. These crevices protect against disturbance and allow rapid retreat when the host moves.
Temperature and humidity within the upholstery remain relatively constant, creating conditions that support development from egg to adult. The warm environment accelerates growth cycles, while the fabric retains moisture, preventing desiccation.
Human activity concentrates on sofas during leisure, sleep, or social interaction. This proximity ensures a steady supply of blood meals without the need for the pest to travel long distances. The regular presence of occupants reduces exposure to predators and increases feeding efficiency.
Key factors can be summarized:
- Physical shelter: seams, stitching, and foam cavities.
- Stable climate: warmth and humidity retained by fabric.
- Host availability: frequent, prolonged human contact.
- Reduced predation: limited exposure to natural enemies.
Understanding these drivers helps target control measures such as thorough vacuuming of seams, steam treatment of cushions, and regular inspection of upholstery joints. Eliminating the shelter and disrupting the microclimate removes the primary incentives for infestation.