Bed bugs are a common household pest that feeds on human blood. They are small, reddish-brown insects that hide in cracks and crevices, usually coming out at night to feed. But when do bed bugs come out? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the habits and behavior of bed bugs to answer this question.
Bed Bug Habits and Behavior
Bed bugs are nocturnal insects, which means they are most active at night. They are attracted to warmth and the carbon dioxide that we exhale while we sleep. When they sense a potential host nearby, they come out of their hiding places to feed.
Bed bugs can go for long periods without feeding, sometimes up to a year or more. However, when they do feed, they prefer to do so every few days. This means that if there is a steady supply of hosts nearby, bed bugs will come out more frequently to feed.
When Do Bed Bugs Come Out?
Bed bugs can come out at any time of the day or night, but they are most active at night. This is because they are attracted to warmth and the carbon dioxide that we exhale while we sleep. Bed bugs are also more likely to come out when there is less light and fewer disturbances, which is why they tend to be more active at night.
If you suspect that you have a bed bug infestation, you may be able to see them during the day. Bed bugs are small, but they are visible to the naked eye. They are about the size and shape of an apple seed and are reddish-brown in color. You may be able to see them crawling around on your mattress, bedding, or furniture.
Signs of a Bed Bug Infestation
If you’re not sure if you have a bed bug infestation, there are some signs to look out for. These include:
- Red, itchy bites on your skin that appear in a line or cluster
- Blood spots or black fecal matter on your bedding or furniture
- Musty or sweet odor, especially in the bedroom
- Small, reddish-brown insects crawling around on your mattress, bedding, or furniture
If you see any of these signs, it’s important to take action right away. Bed bugs can quickly spread throughout your home, making them difficult to get rid of. The longer you wait, the worse the infestation will become.
How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs
Getting rid of bed bugs can be a difficult process, but it’s not impossible. Here are some tips for getting rid of bed bugs:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water and dry them on high heat. This will kill any bed bugs and their eggs.
- Vacuum your mattress, bedding, and furniture thoroughly. Be sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister outside of your home.
- Use bed bug interceptors on your bed legs to monitor and trap bed bugs.
- Seal cracks and crevices in your walls and furniture to prevent bed bugs from hiding there.
- Use a bed bug spray or powder to kill bed bugs in their hiding places.
If you have a severe infestation, you may need to call in a professional exterminator to help you get rid of the bed bugs.
Conclusion
Bed bugs are nocturnal insects that come out at night to feed. They are attracted to warmth and the carbon dioxide that we exhale while we sleep. If you suspect that you have a bed bug infestation, look for signs such as red, itchy bites, blood spots, or small, reddish-brown insects crawling around on your mattress, bedding, or furniture. Getting rid of bed bugs can be a difficult process, but with the right tools and techniques, you can eliminate them from your home for good.
