Can Bed Bugs Bite Through Clothes?
Bed bugs are wingless, oval-shaped parasitic insects that are known for their ability to feed on humans and other warm-blooded animals. These blood-sucking critters can be found in places such as hotels, dorms, apartments, and even private homes. Although they are usually too small to be seen by the naked eye, their bites and presence can be a real annoyance. The question that many people have is whether or not bed bugs can bite through clothes. The answer to this question is both yes and no.
Can Bed Bugs Bite Through Clothes?
Bed bugs are capable of biting through some clothing. Generally speaking, they will not be able to bite through thick fabrics like denim, corduroy and heavy coats. However, they are able to bite through lightweight clothing such as T-shirts, thin pajama bottoms and socks.
What Can I Do to Protect Myself?
If you think you may be at risk of bed bug bites, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself.
- Wash and dry your bedding regularly: Washing and drying your bedding on the highest heat setting possible is the best way to kill off any bed bugs that may have made their way into your mattress, pillows or blankets.
- Wear thicker fabric clothing: Avoid thin fabrics like t-shirts or pajama pants as bed bugs are able to bite through them more easily. Wear thicker fabric clothing such as denim or corduroy for best protection.
- Check luggage and furniture when traveling: Before bringing your luggage and other personal belongings into a hotel or home, check them for any signs of bed bugs. If you notice any, you should notify the hotel or home owner immediately.
Conclusion
Although bed bugs are capable of biting through some apparel, they generally aren’t able to penetrate thick fabrics like denim or corduroy. Wearing thicker fabric clothing, washing bedding on a regular basis and checking furniture and luggage are all good ways to protect yourself from bed bugs.