Can Bed Bugs Get On Clothes?
Bed bugs are tiny parasitic insects that feed on human or animal blood, leaving behind red and itchy bites. They have recently become a major problem in homes, living in mattresses, box springs and bed frames. This can make you wonder, can bed bugs get on clothes?
Do Bed Bugs Live in Clothes?
Bed bugs can get on clothing, but they do not typically live in clothes. They will remain on clothing until they reach a more suitable environment like a bed or mattress that they can attach themselves to. Bed bugs don’t survive very well in clothing and they are typically more attracted to sleeping areas.
How Do Bed Bugs Get On Clothes?
Bed bugs can get on clothes if they are brought into a home. They can hitch a ride from secondhand furniture and items, or even from traveling. If you stay in a hotel and it is infested, bed bugs can also be brought home this way. Bed bugs can even be brought in by people who are already infested and don’t even realize it.
How Do I Prevent Bed Bugs From Getting On My Clothes?
- Wash and dry clothes on the hot settings: This can kill any bed bugs on clothing. Bed bugs will typically die when temperatures reach above 115°F
- Check secondhand furniture and items before bringing them into the home: This will help to ensure that bed bugs are not being brought in inadvertently.
- Inspect hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs: hotel rooms can be infested with bed bugs if proper preventive measures are not taken. Be sure to check the bed, couches and other furniture before settling in.
- Keep clothes off the floor: Bed bugs are often attracted to clothing laying haphazardly on the floor, so try to keep clothes off the floor and in drawers, closets and on hangers.
In conclusion, bed bugs can get on clothes if they are brought into the home on second-hand items or through travel. However, bed bugs do not typically live on clothing, as they are more attracted to mattresses and beds. To help prevent bed bugs from getting on your clothes, be sure you wash and dry on hot settings, inspect second-hand items before introducing them into your home and keep clothes off the floor.