Bed bugs are a nightmare for anyone who has had to deal with them.
These tiny, elusive pests are notorious for their ability to hide in the most unexpected places, and once they invade your space, getting rid of them can be a challenge. One of the most common concerns is whether bed bugs can live in clothes.
The answer, unfortunately, is yes—but it’s a bit more complicated than that.
Understanding Bed Bugs
Before delving into their relationship with clothing, it’s important to understand a bit about bed bugs themselves. Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals.
They are nocturnal creatures, coming out at night to feed, and are most commonly found in areas where people sleep or rest. Their flat bodies allow them to squeeze into tiny spaces, making them excellent hiders.
Can Bed Bugs Infest Clothes?
Yes, bed bugs can live in clothes, but they are more likely to hide in other areas. Bed bugs prefer to live in places where they can easily access their food source—human blood.
This is why they are most commonly found in mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and other furniture near the bed. However, if bed bugs are present in a room, they can also be found in less typical places, including clothes.
While bed bugs don’t typically burrow into fabric like some other pests (such as lice), they can still take refuge in clothing, especially if it’s left in piles on the floor or in an overstuffed closet. Bed bugs may crawl into clothing if they are disturbed or if they are looking for a new place to hide.
How Long Can Bed Bugs Survive in Clothes?
Bed bugs can survive in clothes for several days to a few weeks without feeding, depending on the environment. However, unlike their preferred hiding spots in beds and furniture, clothing is not an ideal long-term habitat.
Bed bugs need to feed regularly, and they generally prefer to stay close to their host. If they are in clothes that are being worn regularly, they might feed, but they will likely move to a more suitable location as soon as possible.
How Do Bed Bugs Get Into Clothes?
Bed bugs can get into clothes in a variety of ways:
- Direct Contact: If you visit a place that is infested with bed bugs, they can crawl onto your clothing. This might happen in a hotel, on public transportation, or even in someone else’s home.
- Proximity to Infested Areas: If you leave your clothes on or near an infested bed or piece of furniture, bed bugs can crawl into the fabric.
- Luggage and Bags: Bed bugs can also hitch a ride in your luggage or bags, which is a common way they spread from one place to another.
Signs of Bed Bugs in Clothes
It’s not easy to spot bed bugs in clothes because they are tiny and good at hiding. However, here are some signs that might indicate their presence:
- Small, dark spots: These could be bed bug feces.
- Shed skins: As bed bugs grow, they shed their exoskeletons, which might be found in your clothes.
- Musty odor: A strong, unpleasant smell could be a sign of a large infestation.
- Bites: Bed bug bites often appear in clusters or lines on your skin, usually on areas that are exposed during sleep.
Preventing Bed Bugs in Clothes
To reduce the risk of bed bugs infesting your clothes, follow these tips:
- Keep Clothes Off the Floor: Store clothes in sealed containers or bags if you’re concerned about bed bugs.
- Inspect and Wash: After returning from travel or suspecting exposure to bed bugs, inspect your clothes carefully and wash them in hot water followed by a high-heat drying cycle.
- Declutter: Bed bugs love to hide, so keeping your space clutter-free, especially around your bed, can help reduce the number of places they can hide.
What to Do If You Find Bed Bugs in Clothes
If you suspect that your clothes have been infested with bed bugs, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:
- Hot Wash and Dry: Wash your clothes in the hottest water safe for the fabric and dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes. The heat will kill bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle.
- Bag and Freeze: For delicate items that can’t be washed in hot water, sealing them in a plastic bag and placing them in the freezer for a few days can also kill bed bugs.
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to suck up bed bugs from your clothes and the surrounding area. Be sure to empty the vacuum immediately into a sealed bag and dispose of it outside.
Summary
While bed bugs can live in clothes, they prefer more stable environments where they can easily feed. However, they can still hitch a ride on your clothing, making it essential to be vigilant, especially after potential exposure to infested areas.
Proper care, including regular washing and drying on high heat, can help keep bed bugs at bay and prevent them from making your wardrobe their new home.