What Are Bed Bugs Attracted To?

Bed bugs are tiny, blood-sucking insects that feed on humans and animals. They are notorious for infesting homes, hotels, and other living spaces. If you are dealing with a bed bug infestation, you might be wondering what attracts these pests in the first place. In this article, we will explore the answer to the question of what bed bugs are attracted to.

Heat and Carbon Dioxide

Bed bugs are attracted to heat and carbon dioxide. When humans and animals breathe, they exhale carbon dioxide, which bed bugs can detect from up to 100 feet away. They are also attracted to heat, which is why they tend to bite people while they sleep.

Human Blood

Bed bugs feed on human blood, which is their primary food source. They are attracted to the chemicals and proteins found in human blood. When a bed bug bites you, it injects saliva into your skin that contains an anti-coagulant, which prevents your blood from clotting while they feed.

Clutter and Mess

Bed bugs are attracted to clutter and mess. They hide in cracks, crevices, and other tight spaces, and clutter provides them with plenty of hiding places. If your home is cluttered and messy, it can be difficult to locate and eliminate bed bugs.

Dirty Laundry

Bed bugs are attracted to dirty laundry. They can detect the scent of sweat and body odor on clothing, which is why they often infest laundry rooms and piles of dirty clothes. If you suspect that you have bed bugs in your home, it is important to wash all of your clothing, bedding, and linens in hot water and dry them on high heat.

Secondhand Furniture

Bed bugs are attracted to secondhand furniture. If you buy used furniture or take furniture off the curb, there is a chance that it could be infested with bed bugs. It is important to thoroughly inspect all secondhand furniture before bringing it into your home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bed bugs are attracted to heat, carbon dioxide, human blood, clutter and mess, dirty laundry, and secondhand furniture. If you are dealing with a bed bug infestation, it is important to identify and eliminate the source of the infestation. This may require professional pest control services, as bed bugs can be difficult to eradicate on your own. By taking proactive measures to prevent bed bugs, you can protect yourself and your family from these annoying and potentially harmful pests.