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7 Myths About Bed Bugs Debunked

These creepy crawlers strike fear (and confusion) in the hearts of humans. CR gets to the truth.

It’s not surprising that half-truths and downright magical thinking come into play where bed bugs are concerned. There are few things that make us feel so powerless in our own domain as the specter of a visit from these creatures.

The most obvious misconception is that if you keep your house really clean, bed bugs won’t come. But “anyone can get bed bugs,” says Zachary DeVries, PhD, an assistant professor of entomology at the University of Kentucky. “Only those who have the resources are able to get rid of them.”

Below, CR busts some myths and delivers advice to help you stare down this scourge, protect yourself and your family, and take effective action if you need to.

Myth 1: You’re Safe From Bed Bugs if You Have a Foam Mattress

Truth: While bed bugs can’t live in foam, they can stash themselves in any crevice that’s close to your body while you’re inert, such as in the small cracks of your bed frame. So even though foam isn’t habitable for bed bugs, someone who’s sleeping on it is still vulnerable.

Does it lower your risk to zip your mattress and box spring into protective bags? “Mattress encasements can be useful to save your mattress and box spring, but they won’t solve your bed bug problem,” DeVries says.

So you can still have bed bugs in your home and can still get bitten. What encasement bags are good for is protecting the actual mattress. That means you might not need to toss it and spend money on a new one if you have a bed bug infestation.

Myth 2: Bed Bugs Travel Only by Hitchhiking on Clothes or Other Fabric

Truth: Fabric is only one mode of transport. Bed bugs get around on their own just fine. Bed bugs can move around within buildings, between rooms and units. They can also hitch a ride on furniture or other infested items to move from one home to another. If you live in a multi-unit building and you know bed bugs are in apartments near yours, you should have an exterminator examine your home and look for signs of the pests. And if your home has an infestation in one room, adjacent rooms should be treated, too.

Myth 3: A Bed Bug–Sniffing Dog Is the Best Way to Identify an Infestation

Truth: There are reputable handlers with well-trained bed bug–sniffing dogs and there are scammers with untrained dogs. There are also legit bug-sniffing dogs that occasionally make mistakes.

Dogs and handlers should have proper accreditation and verifiable training through respected organizations such as the World Detector Dog Organization and the National Entomology Scent Detection Canine Association.

As for spotting signs of bed bugs yourself, there are a couple of things to look for on your sheets: tiny hard brown dots about the size of a pen tip (bed bug excrement) and small blood spots where you might have smashed a bed bug while rolling over. You might also see white eggs the size of sesame seeds in small clumps in or around furniture.

Find out how to identify bed bugs .

And remember, if you see none of the above in your home and your only worry is bite marks, the problem could be something else. There are many insects that bite in the night.

Myth 4: You’ll Need to Throw Out Everything You Own if You Have Bed Bugs

Truth: Most likely you won’t have to leave your expensive TV or computer—or much else—on the curb after a run-in with bed bugs. According to DeVries, you probably won’t need to throw away any of your items, unless the infestation is severe. “It is usually better to treat and eradicate the bugs first,” DeVries says. “If you want to replace items, it’s best to do so only after the problem has been solved to make sure new items don’t get infested.”

Once your home is treated professionally, your belongings should be okay. Exterminators use heat to kill bed bugs, a temperature above 120° F. (The high setting on most clothes dryers is well above this, by the way.) They bring in portable heaters and fans and gradually heat the room, using sensors to make sure the heat is well-distributed.

Some pest control companies ask you to strip beds and furniture and bag up belongings including clothes, shoes, and coats so that bed bugs have nowhere to hide during the treatment. You’ll leave these bags (tied tightly) in the room being heated so that the bed bugs get baked with the rest of the space. Most everything in your home, including furniture, can withstand this heat for the hour and a half necessary to kill off the bugs.

Myth 5: A Blow Dryer Is Fatal to Bed Bugs

Truth: In some cases, it can be. But the trick is keeping bed bugs in one place long enough to take the heat till they’re dead. A hair dryer can be a reliable tool for flushing bed bugs out of cracks and crevices, though. The bugs will scurry away from the hot wind.

Myth 6: Cayenne Pepper or Diatomaceous Earth Can Kill Bed Bugs

Truth: Most over-the-counter products—including natural oils, cayenne pepper, and diatomaceous earth—won’t be effective at killing the pests, according to DeVries. That also includes bug bombs, or sprays containing deet; the concentration is usually not high enough to kill bed bugs or their eggs (and it’s not safe to misuse this chemical by applying more than is recommended). Professional heat treatment by an exterminator is the surest way to kill bed bugs.

If you’re waiting for treatment, you might be able to reduce the number of bed bugs by laying down Cimexa’s Insecticide Dust, which is made mostly of silicon dioxide. Sprinkle it in cracks and joints of a bed frame and in any contact points where bugs could hide (for example, where wood meets the floor and where a bed platform meets the mattress). This insecticide absorbs the waxy exterior of a bed bug’s shell, leaving it desiccated, but you’ll probably need multiple applications. You can also “bake” bedding, shoes, backpacks, and pillows in a clothes dryer set on high for 10 to 20 minutes.

Myth 7: Once They’re Gone, They’re Gone

Truth: Bed bugs can live one to four months at regular temperatures (possibly a bit longer at cooler temperatures). An exterminator should come more than once and should inspect your home before offering a quote. Depending on the degree of problem and the size of your home, treatment costs can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. Many exterminators include a follow-up visit, and some will return several times. (It would be prudent to request this.) After two to three visits from a pro to make sure there are no signs of bed bugs, you can consider yourself clear of the infestation.

Bed Bug Tips

These pests are more common than you think. From the “ Consumer 101 ” TV show, learn how you can protect yourself against a bed bug infestation.

Haniya Rae is a former home and mattress reporter for CR. Previously, she wrote about consumer advocacy issues for The Atlantic, PC Magazine, Popular Science, and others.

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Can Bed Bugs Travel on Clothes You’re Wearing? How They Spread and Ways to Prevent Them

Bed bugs can travel on your clothes by hiding in them. They are unlikely to bite through clothes but may crawl onto discarded items. Moving increases the chances of them hitching a ride into your home and bed. Always check and wash clothes to prevent infestations.

Bed bugs spread through human movement and furniture. They infest homes, hotels, offices, and public transportation. They hide in seams of mattresses, furniture, and even behind wallpaper. Their small size makes them hard to detect and easy to transport.

Preventing bed bugs requires several measures. Inspect clothing and luggage after visiting infested areas. Use high heat to wash and dry clothes, as this kills bed bugs. Avoid placing bags and clothing on beds or upholstered furniture in public spaces. Consider encasing mattresses and box springs in protective covers to reduce hiding spots.

Maintaining vigilance and practicing good hygiene are key to preventing bed bug infestations. While understanding how they spread is crucial, learning effective eradication methods is equally important. By employing preventive tactics, you can minimize the risk of encountering these unwanted pests. Next, we will explore the best ways to treat and eliminate bed bug infestations permanently.

What You Will Learn?

Can Bed Bugs Travel on Clothes You’re Wearing?

Yes, bed bugs can travel on clothes you’re wearing. They may latch onto clothing and other personal items when in close proximity to infested areas.

Bed bugs are small insects that seek shelter in warm, dark places close to their food source, which is usually humans. When individuals brush against or sit on infested surfaces, the bugs can attach themselves to clothes. Since bed bugs are excellent at hiding and can easily be transferred, it increases the risk of carrying them to new locations, such as homes, hotels, or public spaces. Proper precautions, like inspecting clothing and using protective coverings, can help prevent their spread.

How Do Bed Bugs Attach Themselves to Clothing?

Bed bugs attach themselves to clothing primarily by clinging to fibers and resting on garments when in close proximity to humans. Their small size and flat bodies enable them to easily camouflage and traverse various fabrics.

Key points explaining how bed bugs attach to clothing include:

Proximity: Bed bugs are attracted to carbon dioxide and warmth emitted by humans. This leads them to come close to individuals, allowing them to attach to clothing easily.

Small size: Adult bed bugs measure about 4 to 5 millimeters in length and can flatten their bodies. This size allows them to hide in seams and folds of garments, making them difficult to spot.

Clinging to fibers: Bed bugs can grasp onto fibers of clothing with their claws. This gripping ability allows them to remain attached even during movement.

Movement: Bed bugs can move quickly over the surface of clothing. A study from the Journal of Medical Entomology (Lindsay et al., 2019) indicates they can travel several feet in search of a food source.

Lack of host detection: Bed bugs can remain unnoticed for long periods, allowing them to hitch a ride on clothing without being detected. They often wait until nighttime, when humans are resting, to come out and feed.

Infested environments: Bed bugs are commonly found in areas with high human activity, such as hotels, public transportation, and residential buildings. Clothing that comes into contact with these environments is at a higher risk of having bed bugs attach to it.

Awareness of these factors can help in preventing bed bugs from attaching to clothing and spreading. Regular cleaning and inspection of clothes, especially after visiting infested areas, can mitigate the risks associated with bed bugs.

What Methods Do Bed Bugs Use to Travel on Humans?

Bed bugs primarily travel on humans by hitchhiking on clothing, bags, and personal belongings. They have adaptations that allow them to cling to fabric and other surfaces, making them effective at spreading from one location to another.

The main methods through which bed bugs travel on humans are as follows: 1. Hitchhiking on clothing 2. Clinging to personal belongings 3. Biting and traveling in small crevices

Hitchhiking on Clothing : Hitchhiking on clothing occurs when bed bugs attach themselves to garments worn by humans. Bed bugs have a flat body, which allows them to easily slide into folds and seams. For example, a person visiting an infested hotel may unknowingly carry bed bugs back home on their clothes. Research by the University of Kentucky (2015) highlights that bed bugs can survive several days without feeding, making them capable of traveling long distances.

Clinging to Personal Belongings : Clinging to personal belongings refers to bed bugs hiding in items such as bags, purses, or backpacks while humans transport them. Bed bugs are attracted to various materials, and their ability to remain concealed allows them to travel undetected. A study by the Department of Entomology at the University of Florida (2016) notes that bed bugs often take refuge in seams and pockets, which can be overlooked during inspections.

Biting and Traveling in Small Crevices : Biting and traveling in small crevices occurs when bed bugs bite humans and may stay attached to the host temporarily until they find a location to hide. They prefer dark spaces and can fit into tiny gaps. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology (2017), bed bugs exhibit a behavior known as “host-finding,” which involves exploring the host’s body and then relocating to nearby hideouts.

These methods of travel allow bed bugs to easily spread from infested areas to new environments, posing significant challenges for pest control and prevention. Employing effective monitoring and prevention strategies can help minimize the risk of bed bug infestations.

Are Bed Bugs More Likely to Spread Through Clothing or Other Items?

Yes, bed bugs are more likely to spread through clothing and other items than through the air. These pests can hitch a ride on fabrics, making clothing and personal belongings primary vehicles for their spread. They can easily cling to clothing, bags, and other items, allowing them to move from one location to another.

When comparing clothing to other items, bed bugs primarily spread through clothing, luggage, and soft furnishings. Clothing is especially vulnerable because bed bugs can easily attach themselves to fabric fibers. Other items like furniture may also harbor bed bugs, but the risk of spreading them is greater through clothing, as people frequently move in and out of potentially infested areas, such as hotels or shared living spaces. For example, a person staying at a hotel may unknowingly carry bed bugs back home on their clothes or in their suitcase.

The positive aspect of understanding bed bug transmission through clothing is that awareness can lead to preventive measures. According to a study by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA, 2019), awareness of bed bugs can significantly reduce infestations. Simple actions like checking clothing and luggage before leaving an infested area can help prevent these pests from spreading. Educational efforts can also encourage regular cleaning and inspection of clothing, which diminishes the chance of carrying bed bugs home.

Conversely, the negative aspect of clothing as a transmission medium is the potential for widespread infestations. Bed bugs reproduce quickly, and a few hitchhikers can lead to a significant infestation within a short time. Studies from the journal Pest Management Science highlight that a single female bed bug can lay over 200 eggs in her lifetime, resulting in exponential population growth if not addressed. This situation can lead to costly eradication efforts and the stress associated with dealing with an infestation.

To mitigate the risks of carrying bed bugs home via clothing, individuals should take specific precautions. Inspect clothing and bags after visiting places known for bed bugs, such as hotels or public transportation. Wash clothing in hot water and dry on high heat for 30 minutes to kill any potential pests. Consider using bed bug-proof luggage encasements for added protection when traveling. Regularly vacuum and clean living spaces to reduce the likelihood of an infestation.

How Can You Identify Bed Bugs on Your Clothes?

You can identify bed bugs on your clothes by looking for small reddish-brown insects, dark spots of excrement, and shed skins. Checking seams and folds in your clothing is crucial for effective identification.

Visible insects: Adult bed bugs are about the size of an apple seed. They are flat, oval, and reddish-brown. If you see these bugs on your clothing, it indicates an infestation.

Dark spots of excrement: Bed bugs excrete digested blood, creating small black or brown stains on fabric. These stains typically appear on seams or behind tags, often where bed bugs hide or travel.

Shed skins: Bed bugs go through multiple life stages. As they grow, they shed their skins, which are light brown and hollow. Finding these skins on your clothes can indicate a presence of bed bugs.

Eggs and egg casings: Bed bug eggs are tiny, white, and laid in clusters. They often adhere to seams. Egg casings are also pale and oval-shaped. Discovering either on or near your clothing can reveal a bed bug problem.

By regularly inspecting your clothing, especially after visiting potential infested areas, you can catch bed bugs early. A study by Wang et al. (2019) highlights that bed bugs can travel on clothing, making vigilance essential in preventing spread.

What Precautions Can You Take to Prevent Bed Bugs from Getting on Your Clothes?

To prevent bed bugs from infesting your clothes, take proactive measures. Here are some effective precautions you can implement:

Inspect Second-Hand Items
Keep Clothes Off the Floor
Use Protective Covers
Regularly Wash and Dry Clothes
Limit Clothing in Infested Areas

Store Clothes in Sealed Bags

Inspect Second-Hand Items : Inspect second-hand items thoroughly before bringing them home. Bed bugs often hitch a ride on used furniture, clothing, and books. A study from the University of Kentucky (2014) noted that over 60% of bed bug infestations originated from used furniture. Carefully check seams and folds for signs of bed bugs, such as tiny dark spots or shed skins.

Keep Clothes Off the Floor : Keep clothes off the floor in your home, especially in bedrooms. Bed bugs can easily crawl onto clothing lying on the ground. The CDC advises storing clothes on shelves or in closets to minimize risk. Implement this habit consistently to protect your belongings from potential infestations.

Use Protective Covers : Use protective covers on pillows and mattresses. These specially designed encasements help prevent bed bugs from entering or escaping. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests using bed bug-proof encasements as part of an overall prevention strategy to contain any existing infestations.

Regularly Wash and Dry Clothes : Regularly wash and dry clothes on high heat. Bed bugs cannot survive extreme temperatures. A study by the University of Florida (2012) found that washing clothes in hot water and drying them on high heat effectively kills all life stages of bed bugs. Aim to wash and dry clothes that may have come into contact with potentially infested areas.

Limit Clothing in Infested Areas : Limit the amount of clothing you bring into infested areas. For example, in hotels, designate a specific area for bags and clothing away from beds and upholstered furniture. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) recommends keeping items in sealable bags to avoid cross-contamination.

Store Clothes in Sealed Bags : Store rarely used clothes in sealed bags. This measure protects them from bed bugs when not in active use. According to a study by researchers at Purdue University (2016), plastic bags or bins can prevent bed bugs from accessing stored clothing items, offering peace of mind.

Implementing these precautions can greatly reduce the risk of bed bugs infesting your clothes and belongings.

Does Washing and Drying Clothes Really Eliminate Bed Bugs?

Yes, washing and drying clothes can help eliminate bed bugs. High temperatures effectively kill both bed bugs and their eggs.

Bed bugs are sensitive to heat. Washing clothes in hot water (at least 120°F or 49°C) and then drying them on a high heat setting for at least 30 minutes effectively destroys these pests. The heat penetrates the fabric and ensures that both the bugs and their eggs are eliminated. Additionally, this process also helps reduce the risk of reinfestation if done thoroughly across all potentially infested items.

What Laundry Conditions Kill Bed Bugs?

Washing clothes at high temperatures and using a dryer on high heat can kill bed bugs effectively. Bed bugs cannot survive temperatures above 120°F (49°C).

Effective Laundry Conditions: – High water temperature – High dryer heat – Duration of exposure – Quality of detergent – Combined methods

High Water Temperature: High water temperature is critical in killing bed bugs. Washing clothing in water heated to at least 120°F (49°C) can eliminate them effectively.

According to a study by the University of Kentucky (2013), exposure to high water temperatures has proven effective in reducing bed bug populations in laundry. The study found that maintaining this temperature for at least 20 minutes ensures the death of both adult bed bugs and their eggs. Some individuals prefer lower temperatures to preserve fabric integrity. However, the risk of leaving behind surviving bed bugs may outweigh the benefits of fabric care.

High Dryer Heat: High dryer heat also plays a significant role in eliminating bed bugs. Using a dryer on a high heat setting for at least 30 minutes can effectively kill bed bugs.

When clothing is dried at a temperature above 120°F, bed bugs become incapable of survival and reproduction. According to research conducted by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), this method is complementary to washing and is highly effective in ensuring that any remaining bed bugs are eradicated. Some consumers may use lower heat settings to save energy. Still, extensive studies support the need for high heat to fully ensure bed bug elimination.

Duration of Exposure: Duration of exposure to heat is pivotal in bed bug eradication during laundry cycles. The longer clothes are subjected to high temperatures, the higher the chance of killing bed bugs.

The NPMA suggests that at least 30 minutes in a dryer at high heat is necessary, while the University of Florida recommends washing for at least 20 minutes in hot water. Some people may underestimate the time required, leading to ineffective treatment. It’s essential to follow these recommendations to avoid accidental reinfestation.

Quality of Detergent: The selection of detergent can influence the success of bed bug removal. While detergents alone do not kill bed bugs, they improve cleaning efficacy.

Common laundry detergents enhance the overall cleaning process, removing allergens, dirt, and other pests that may accompany bed bugs. However, debates exist regarding whether certain eco-friendly detergents can deliver the same cleaning power as traditional options. The choice can matter but adhering to hot water and heat exposure remains essential.

Combined Methods: Utilizing a combination of methods yields the highest success rate in killing bed bugs. Washing clothes in hot water followed by drying them on high heat is the recommended approach.

This approach incorporates several aspects, as each method has unique strengths in eradicating bed bugs. For instance, washing alone may reduce bed bug populations, but the drying process is crucial for ensuring total extermination. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), combining these methods maximizes effectiveness. Some individuals may prefer relying on treatments or deterrents instead, but physical removal through laundry remains one of the most reliable and straightforward methods.

In conclusion, laundry conditions that effectively kill bed bugs include high water temperatures, high dryer heat, appropriate duration of exposure, quality of detergent, and employing combined methods.

How Should You Remove Bed Bugs from Your Clothing Safely?

To remove bed bugs from clothing safely, wash the items in hot water and dry them in a high-heat dryer for at least 30 minutes. Bed bugs are sensitive to heat; temperatures above 120°F (49°C) will kill them. Statistics indicate that proper laundering can eliminate 99% of bed bugs and their eggs.

First, gather all clothing that may have come into contact with bed bugs. Inspect each item carefully. Place infested garments in a sealed plastic bag to prevent bugs from spreading. While washing clothes, use the hottest setting recommended on the care label. If the items cannot be washed, using a high-heat dryer can still effectively kill the bugs.

For example, if bed bugs were found in your bedroom, toss all affected clothing directly into the washer before bringing them into other areas of your home. This minimizes the chance of transferring bed bugs elsewhere.

Consider the external environment. Bed bugs can hide in dark areas, so ensure your laundry area is clean and free of clutter. Regular inspections of living spaces help catch infestations early. If bed bugs persist or infest larger areas such as mattresses or furniture, it may be necessary to consult a pest control professional.

In summary, safely removing bed bugs from clothing involves washing with hot water and using a high-heat dryer. Additional precautions include inspecting and isolating potentially infested clothing and maintaining a clean environment to reduce risk. For further exploration, consider researching preventive measures or treatments for bed bug infestations in specific areas of your home.

What Are the Warning Signs of Bed Bug Infestation in Your Wardrobe?

The warning signs of bed bug infestation in your wardrobe include visible bed bugs, fecal spots, shed skins, and an unusual musty odor.

Visible Bed Bugs
Fecal Spots

Visible Bed Bugs: Visible bed bugs are small, brownish insects that typically measure 4 to 5 millimeters in length. They often hide in seams of clothing or inside drawers. Their presence indicates an active infestation. A study by Chen et al. (2016) highlights that a single female bed bug can lay up to 200 eggs in her lifetime, leading to rapid population growth. Observing live bed bugs in your wardrobe is one of the clearest signs of an infestation.

Fecal Spots: Fecal spots are small, dark brown or black stains that bed bugs leave behind after feeding. These tiny droppings can often be found on clothing, among folds, or in drawers. The presence of fecal spots indicates that bed bugs are feeding nearby. According to a report by the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), finding these spots should prompt immediate investigation into potential infestations.

Shed Skins: Shed skins are translucent exoskeletons left behind by bed bugs as they grow. Bed bugs molt several times during their life cycle and leave these skins behind in hiding spots. Finding shed skins in your wardrobe is a sign that bed bugs are present and actively growing. Hughes et al. (2014) note that noticing these skins can be an early warning sign of a developing infestation before larger populations form.

Musty Odor: A musty odor often accompanies a bed bug infestation. This odor arises from the scent glands of bed bugs and can be quite distinct. While the odor alone is not definitive evidence of an infestation, its presence alongside other warning signs can indicate a serious problem. A 2015 study conducted by Wang et al. indicates that a strong musty smell often becomes more pronounced as the infestation worsens.

Being vigilant for these warning signs can help you address a bed bug issue before it escalates.

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Do Bed Bugs Stay on Clothes? What’s The Real Truth?

Can bed bugs stay on your clothes? It seems like such a simple question, but the answer is more complicated than expected. Bed bugs are small insects that exclusively feed on blood, and we find them in many different areas of homes and businesses, including clothing.

We will go into why you may find bed bugs in your clothes and how to prevent them.

These creatures have been around since 1500 BC, and you’ll find them lurking in beds, couches, chairs, fabric, and clothing. Unfortunately, nobody has figured out how to eradicate them from our lives completely. Read here: to learn more about where bed bugs come from .

Read on to discover all about these awful parasites – what attracts them to our clothes and how to protect ourselves against their infestations. Plus if you are wondering what to wear to prevent bed bug bites: check here .

You’ll gain greater insight into why bed bugs may or may not remain in fabric items. Then you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions regarding safeguarding against these troublesome critters!

Introducing the Bed Bug Debate – Is it True or False: “Do Bed Bugs Stay on Clothes?”

Is it true or false: do bed bugs stay on clothes? This question has been widely debated among homeowners, apartment dwellers, hotels, and beyond.

Those who have had a bed bug infestation know only too well just how difficult they are to get rid of. And that they can quickly get on your clothes. However, unlike body lice, they are not known to stay on our clothing for long.

So do bed bugs STAY on clothes? Usually, they are not the type of parasite that lives on us. However, keep reading for reasons you might pick up bed bugs on your clothes . (plus how to avoid it) ????

We have an entire article dedicated to Learning more about the differences between lice vs bed bugs .

Top Reasons Why You’ll Find Bed Bugs on Clothes

If one crawls onto your clothes, you may wonder, “ Can bed bugs bite through clothes ?” The simple answer is “no”; however, you must read the above article to understand the possibilities thoroughly. Here are some main reasons you might see bed bugs on your clothing.

Below are a few reasons to get your brain flowing in the right direction on getting bed bugs on your clothes.

Folding Laundry On A Bed

If you have a known bed bug issue and fold your clothes on the bed, there is a high chance that a bed bug nymph will crawl into your clothes.

Folding laundry on your bed is also a popular reason you can unknowingly put bed bugs into your drawers and closets.

Putting Luggage on a Hotel Bed

The best thing to do when you get home from any hotel, Airbnb, VRBO, or other short-term rental is to act as if your belongings have bed bugs.

Never place luggage on a hotel bed. When you get home, always put your belongings into the high-heat dryer or bedbug oven . I use the Thermal Strike bed bug oven weekly!

Putting a Jacket on A Friend’s Bed

If you are at a friend’s house and place a jacket on their bed, you can accidentally get a bed bug on your clothes.

Putting your jacket, hoodie, or backpack on someone’s bed is never a good idea. No matter how well you know them.

About 30% of the population does not react to bed bug bites, so it’s easy for someone to have them and not know.

Bad Infestation

Over the years, I have seen some horrible infestations. Often, I see someone so heavily infested they have bed bugs crawling on their shirt, pants, or shoes.

Recently I entered an apartment because the management company was trying to understand why some neighbors kept getting bed bugs. The person who answered the door had a tank top on with bed bugs crawling on the shoulder straps.

In this case, I did not bring the bed bug-sniffing dog in; I just got some photos of the infestation for my report. The management company was able to get them some help.

You Sit Down in a Public Place That Has Bugs

You can sit unknowingly in a movie theatre, doctor’s office, or any other public space with bed bugs. When arriving home, the best way to prevent this is always to put your clothing into the high-heat dryer. If you don’t have easy access to a dryer, bag your clothing until you can visit a laundry mat.

Your Uber or Lyft Has Bed Bugs

A car seat can easily hide a bed bug infestation due to the often dark-colored seats with plenty of hiding spots. Last year one of my clients called me in tears; he explained that he and his wife had just gotten out of an Uber ride that lasted an hour.

They had six-bed bugs crawling on their coat and collars upon returning home. They only noticed it because 2 of the bugs fell off in their apartment entryway. Luckily they took a good photo, and I could immediately ID them as adult bed bugs!

Underbed Storage

If you store clothes under your bed and don’t have them sealed in air-tight bins like the Rubbermaid storage below, then you are at risk of bed bugs on your clothes.

If you are dealing with an infestation, then the risk of bed bugs crawling into the clothes and hiding out there until they are ready to feed is high. Use plastic bins with snap lids like these:

Rubbermaid Under Bed Wheeled Storage Box, 68 Qt 2-Pack, Made in USA, Plastic Containers with Dual-Hinged Lids and Sturdy Wheels, Visible Organization for Tight Spaces

MADE IN THE USA: Proudly made in the USA with high quality impact resistant BPA-Free plastic this under bed storage with wheels is built to last.
SEE-THROUGH DESIGN: Our plastic bins with lids are designed with durable see-through material making locating and accessing frequently used belongings easier. Maximizes storage space, while keeping everyday household items neat and organized.
VERSITILE USE: These under bed storage containers with wheels can be used to store out of season clothes, extra blanks or pillows, use as a shoe organizer, and so much more.
SUPERIOR STORAGE: Center hinge allows our under the bed storage bins to be accessed from either end. This rolling storage bin is equipped with sturdy casters to roll smoothly when moving the unit under or out from under the bed.
FITS TIGHT SPACES: This Bin is only 6.6” high, perfect for utilizing underbed storage space, fits under most bed frames. Dimensions: 43.1" L x 19.5" W x 6.6" H

Close Encounters On Public Transportation

If you take a subway, Metro, BART, bus, or your city’s version of these modes of transportation, be aware that bed bugs can hitch a ride on your clothing. I’ve seen this firsthand many times over the years.

Significantly, if the train is crowded, you must be up against other people. A bed bug can easily crawl from one person’s clothing onto yours. Always put your clothing through the high-heat dryer upon returning home.

Understanding the Lifecycle of a Bed Bug

Did you know that bed bugs are among the most challenging pests to eradicate? They are a tricky pest to get rid of because you cannot bait them since they only drink blood.

With roaches, you can set out baits for them to eat and bring back to the nest. While with bed bugs, the only way to kill them is by direct contact with heat, pesticides, freezing, or the fungus Beauveria bassiana. Learn more about what kills bed bugs instantly here .

To effectively eliminate them, it’s essential to understand their lifecycles. Bed bugs have three stages: egg, nymph, and adult.

Female bed bugs are prolific breeders and, once impregnated, can lay eggs for a while. With this kind of reproductive capability and their hidden habits, bed bugs can quickly multiply if not dealt with appropriately. As nymphs, bed bugs go through five molting phases as they develop before adulthood and mating.

Knowing a bed bug’s natural lifecycle helps prepare you for preventing or eliminating an infestation in your home or business.

How Long Can They Survive on Clothing and Other Fabrics

Bed bugs attach themselves to surfaces like clothing and other fabrics. They are known as “hitchhikers,” hiking a ride on your clothing from one place to the next.

Did you know that roaches can also hitch a ride on clothing? Learn more here .

So, how long can they survive on your clothes? If you put your clothing into a high-heat dryer daily, any bed bugs will die. Ultimately, there is no easy answer to this question of how long bed bugs stay on clothes. It all depends on why the bed bug is on your clothes in the first place.

But it’s important to know that if a bed bug finds its way onto your clothing, it’s easy to kill with heat.

What Are the Best Practices for Preventing Bed Bugs On Your Clothes

Keeping bed bugs off your clothes is essential in not spreading these awful pests to other people. The best way to do this is to be mindful of the clothes you bring into your home and regular laundering.

A popular question we often ask is, “ does washing clothes kill bed bugs ?”. It’s important to realize that the dryer kills bed bugs, not the washer.

To avoid getting bedbugs, try using the high-heat dryer regularly. Additionally, you already have evidence of bed bugs in your house. In that case, it’s essential to check for any signs of these pests on all fabrics, including clothing, to prevent further infestations.

Regularly vacuuming (be sure to check out our list of best bed bug vacuums ) and steaming all areas of your home can also help remove these pests before they take over.

Finally, store all clothing items in sealed plastic containers or bags if you suspect bed bug activity in the area. With these best practices in mind, you can rest assured your clothes will remain mainly pest-free!

What You Should Do If You Find Signs of Bed Bugs in Your Clothes

Bed bugs in clothing can be a scary thought. But it’s essential to remain calm and take the steps necessary to deal with the situation. By understanding how bed bugs move, what bed bugs look like, and bed bug behavior, you can take steps to remedy the situation.

It is generally recommended that you launder your clothing that’s come into contact with bed bugs. Remember that with the steps taken quickly, you can avoid any potential bed bug issues.

Final Thoughts for Do Bed Bugs Stay on Clothes? What’s the Real Truth?

Even though bedbugs may stay on clothes temporarily, there are still ways to prevent them from making a home in your wardrobe. The thing to keep in mind is that bed bugs need to feed on blood and prefer to crawl back to a crack or crevice after feeding.

They are not the type of parasite that likes to live on us; instead, they live near us. Overall, it’s essential to take note of any signs that may indicate a bedbug problem, such as eggs, casings, or live bugs.

It’s also important to regularly vacuum, launder items at high temperatures, and inspect the furniture for feces that could indicate the presence of bed bugs.

So the final answer: Do Bed Bugs Stay on Clothes? Yes and no–it depends on the environment and how fast you can identify and eliminate the problem!

More Articles To Help You With Your Bed Bug Questions Below

May 27, 2011

Top 10 Myths about Bedbugs

The insects, making a comeback around the globe, cannot fly and are really not interested in hanging out on your body--but they do occasionally bite during the day

By Megan Scudellari

Roger Eritja Getty Images

Once a pest of the past, bedbugs now infest every state in the U.S.. Cimex lectularius —small, flattened insects that feed solely on mammalian and avian blood—have been living with humans since ancient times. Abundant in the U.S. prior to World War II, bedbugs all but vanished during the 1940s and '50s thanks to improvements in hygiene and the use of pesticides. In the past 10 years, however, the pests have staged a comeback worldwide—an outbreak after the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney was a harbinger of things to come. This revival may be the worst yet, experts say, due to densely populated urban areas, global travel and increasing pesticide resistance—something to consider as the summer travel season gets underway.

"By every metric that we use, it's getting worse and worse," says Coby Schal, an entomologist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. Health authorities and pest control operators are regularly flooded with calls, and the epidemic may not have yet peaked. And because bedbugs are indoor pests, there are no high or low seasons throughout the year, he adds, only continual bombardment. "It's just the beginning of the problem in the U.S.," Schal says.

Spreading rapidly with the bedbugs is a mass of misinformation about their biology and behavior. Straight from the experts, here are the facts behind some of the most notorious myths about the diminutive bloodsuckers.

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Myth 1: Bedbugs can fly Bedbugs lack wings, and therefore cannot fly. That is unless you put a blow dryer behind them, says Stephen Kells, a bedbug researcher at the University of Minnesota. Then they'll fly about 1.2 meters. On their own, bedbugs crawl about a meter a minute, he says.

Myth 2: Bedbugs reproduce quickly Compared with other insects, bedbugs are slow to reproduce: Each adult female produces about one egg per day; a common housefly lays 500 eggs over three to four days. Each bedbug egg takes 10 days to hatch and another five to six weeks for the offspring to develop into an adult.

Myth 3: Bedbugs can typically live a year without a meal Scientists debate this point, but evidence suggests that at normal room temperature, about 23 degrees Celsius, bedbugs can only survive two to three months without a blood meal. But because they are cold-blooded, their metabolism will slow down in chillier climates, and the insects may live up to a year without feeding.

Myth 4: Bedbugs bite only at night Although bedbugs are generally nocturnal, they're like humans—if they're hungry, they'll get up and get something to eat. "If you go away to visit a friend for a week and you come back and sit down on the couch, even though it's daytime the bedbugs will come looking for you," Schal says. Keeping a light on, then, unfortunately does not keep these tiny vampires away.

Myth 5: Bedbugs live exclusively in mattresses "'Bedbug' is such a misnomer," Kells says. "They should also be called pet bugs and suitcase bugs and train bugs and movie theater bugs." Bedbugs spread away from beds into living areas and can be seen on any surface, he says, including chairs, railings and ceilings.

Myth 6: Bedbugs prefer unsanitary, urban conditions "Bedbugs are terribly nondiscriminatory," Schal says. Bedbugs can be found anywhere from ritzy high-rises to homeless shelters. The prevalence of the bugs in low-income housing is therefore not a result of the insect's preference, but of dense populations and the lack of money to pay for proper elimination strategies. "Any location is vulnerable," Kells says. "But some people are going to have a harder time getting control of them because it is such an expensive treatment."

Myth 7: Bedbugs travel on our bodies Bedbugs do not like heat, Kells says. They therefore do not stick in hair or on skin, like lice or ticks, and prefer not to remain in our clothes close to our bodily heat. Bedbugs are more likely to travel on backpacks, luggage, shoes and other items farther removed from our bodies.

Myth 8: Bedbugs transmit disease Bedbug bites can lead to anxiety, sleeplessness and even secondary infections, but there have been no reported cases of bedbugs transmitting disease to humans. They do, however, harbor human pathogens: At least 27 viruses, bacteria, protozoa and more have been found in bedbugs, although these microbes do not reproduce or multiply within the insects. Canadian researchers announced ( pdf ) in the June issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases that bedbugs isolated from three individuals in a Vancouver hospital carried methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus , aka MRSA. Still, there have been no reported cases that the bugs actually transmit human disease.

Myth 9: We should bring back DDT When the controversial pesticide DDT was banned in 1972, most bed bugs were already resistant to it, Schal says, and today's populations are even more widely resistant thanks to the use of a new class of pesticides. Pyrethroids, the main class of pesticides used against bedbugs today, targets sodium channels in bedbug cells, just like DDT. Consequently, as bedbugs develop resistance to pyrethroids, they also become cross-resistant to DDT.

Myth 10: You can spray bedbugs away Thanks to pesticide resistance, those cans of spray at your local hardware store simply will not do , Schal says, adding: "Relying strictly on chemicals is generally not a good solution." The most effective solutions are fumigation and heat treatments, but these can cost a cool $2,000 to $3,000 apiece for a single-family home. Scientists are diligently pursuing other strategies, including freezing and bait similar to that used for cockroaches. In the October 2010 issue of the Journal of Economic Entomology Schal and colleagues at the U.S. Department of Agriculture published a technique that employs inexpensive infrared and vibration sensors to track bedbug movement, which could be applied to the development of automated traps that detect the pests.

How to Wash and Care for Laundry Infested With Bed Bugs

Rescue your clothes and linens with high heat or a deep freeze

Amanda Rose Newton is a pest specialist and horticulture expert, reviewing pest control and gardening content for The Spruce's Cleaning and Gardening Review Board. Her passion for pest control and sustainable gardening allows her to review plant and pest content for best practices and accuracy. She is a board-certified entomologist and volunteers for USAIDs Farmer to Farmer program. She is a professor of Horticulture, an Education Specialist, and a pest specialist.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

The Spruce / Madelyn Goodnight

Instructions

Freezing Method
Treating Stains
How Often to Clean

What Are Bed Bugs?

Working Time: 15 mins - 1 hr
Total Time: 2 - 3 hrs
Skill Level: Beginner
Estimated Cost: $0 to $10

If you experience a bed bug outbreak , there's no need to dispose of everything; you can launder your clothes and bedding on high heat. Wash in the hottest water and dry using the highest dryer setting the items can tolerate. If your items can't handle heat or hot water, then try freezing them to eliminate them.

Never leave your infested clothing or items out. If you can't wash them immediately, isolate your laundry in sealed plastic bags or bins to prevent bed bugs from hiding in furniture , rugs, and carpeting since bed bugs can live for months between feedings.

Here are the general steps to follow to get rid of bed bugs in laundry.

The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

What You'll Need

Equipment / tools.

Washing machine
Rubbing alcohol
Laundry detergent

How to Wash Laundry With Bed Bugs

Spray clothes with rubbing alcohol.

Spray rubbing alcohol immediately on infested colorfast clothes. The rubbing alcohol will kill live bed bugs on contact; however, it won't eliminate eggs or eliminate the infestation.
For non-colorfast fabrics and items that must be dry cleaned, immediately place the clothes in a sealable plastic bag.

Separate Dry-Clean-Only Garments

Items with care labels marked "dry clean only" should go into a separate pile, even if you don't plan to take them to the dry cleaner for additional cleaning.
These items cannot be washed but can usually be put into the dryer on high heat to help eliminate the bugs.

Sort Clothes Into Trash Bags

Sort your clothes as you usually would before washing a load of laundry. Sort them in the infested area to prevent spreading the bed bugs into another area of your home.
Place each sorted pile of clothing in a large trash bag and seal it.

Set the Washing Machine

If your washer doesn't have an automatic dispenser, add regular detergent (there's no need for special detergent) to the drum of the washing machine.
Select the hottest water temperature recommended for the fabrics and the correct cycle for the fabric types.

Transfer Clothes to the Washer

Take the bags to the washing machine and tip them over so the clothes carefully spill directly into the machine. Don’t roughly dump out the clothes because the bed bugs could get loose. This is important in your home, a communal laundry room, or a laundromat .
Dispose of the trash bag in an outside bin.

Select the Best Dryer Cycle

Transfer the clothes from the washing machine to the dryer when the wash cycle is complete.
Set the dryer to run for at least 30 minutes on the highest possible heat cycle that won't damage the fabric. Ideally, the heat should exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit to kill bugs and eggs.

Fold Laundry

Fold the clean, dry clothes on a clean table that is bed bug-free.
Properly store laundry.

How to Eliminate Bed Bugs Using the Freezing Method

If you can't wash or dry clean some delicate fabrics and dry-clean-only clothes because they cannot withstand the heat required in the dryer to kill bed bugs, store them in the freezer. Bed bugs can't survive freezing temperatures. However, the freezer must be set at a very low temperature—0 degrees or lower is ideal.

The same cold treatment will work for silk garments , suede boots or shoes, lingerie , and stuffed animals . Items must be left in the freezer for at least four days. This will ensure that the center of the item has reached zero degrees. Bulky items can take longer.

After removing the items from freezer storage, vacuum them well to capture any debris, and dispose of the vacuum bag or dust cup contents in an outside bin.

Treating Stains on Laundry Infested With Bed Bugs

Unfortunately, bed bugs can leave stains and excrement on your bedding and clothing. It will look like little, dark, rusty dots, and they'll likely be removed through the wash.

Pretreat any other stains you notice before washing since hot water and high heat will set stains. Try these pretreatment methods:

Blot and rub away spots with cold water to remove stains.
Dab hydrogen peroxide (3%) on the damp areas.
Use an enzyme-based fabric stain remover to break down the stains before running them through the wash.

Bed bugs don't bite through fabrics and won't make holes in your laundry. However, they do crawl through the tiniest of crevices and holes. The worst damage you'll see from bed bugs is the stains they leave behind.

Storing Laundry Infested With Bed Bugs

After washing laundry infested with bed bugs, store the clothing. Use plastic containers or well-sealed plastic bags for storage, as bed bugs can live inside cardboard boxes. Keep the clothing stored until you're sure that the infestation has been eliminated.

How Often to Clean Laundry Infested With Bed Bugs

Because heat kills bed bugs, one high-temperature washing and drying per load of laundry should be enough to do the job. However, you'll need to monitor the bed bug situation for further infestations, as bed bugs hiding in mattress creases and cracks in walls and flooring can quickly establish a new infestation.

Tips for Washing Laundry Infested With Bed Bugs

Before and during the disinfection process, avoid leaving clothing directly on the floor because more bed bugs may hide in the fabric and drop to the floor.
Use a bed bug spray repellent in conjunction with washing your infested laundry.
If you’re unsure how to clean the infested laundry, take it to a dry cleaner. However, be honest with the dry cleaner about the infestation to avoid spreading it to other patrons.
Instead of washing delicate clothing or pillows in a washer, use a clothes steamer that reaches a temperature between 160 and 180 degrees Fahrenheit. Follow the instructions for the machine, and cover every surface of the fabric to kill the bugs and eggs. After steaming, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture any dead bugs. Empty the vacuum bag or dust container into a plastic bag and dispose of it in an outside bin.

Bed bugs ( Cimex spp.) are very tiny (just over 1/8 inch long) blood-feeding insects that hide in creases and crevices of furniture and fabrics during daylight hours, emerging in darkness to seek out and bite warm-blooded animals, including humans and pets.

Home infestations usually occur after homeowners travel to regions where bed bugs are endemic, such as tropical resorts or hotels, bringing back the insects in luggage and clothing. In this instance, it is best to call a professional to eradicate the infestation.

Bed bugs are so small that the initial bites are virtually painless and unnoticeable. The bites become apparent only days later as red, itchy welts appear, similar to mosquito bites. If you spot them, the insects themselves are sometimes mistaken for ticks, as both insects have flat, disc-shaped bodies. Unlike ticks, bed bugs do not latch on and embed themselves in skin but instead retreat into cracks, crevices, and creases after a nighttime blood meal.

Bed bug bites are often mistaken for flea bites, but bed bugs typically bite on the upper half of the body (probably because they are drawn by carbon dioxide in human breath). In contrast, fleas are more likely to bite on the lower body, with bites much smaller than the red welts left by bed bugs.

No. These insects do not eat food, and sloppy housekeeping has no bearing on their presence. Bed bugs arrive in your home simply because you (or a guest) have brought them in luggage or clothing from a place with an existing infestation.

According to the CDC, bed bugs are not known vectors for serious infectious diseases. However, some individuals can have allergic reactions to the bites, sometimes requiring medical attention.

Bed bugs are most prevalent in warm-weather, tropical climates, but because of increased tourist travel, they are often found in cold-weather environments, too. It's wise to be alert whenever traveling (or when entertaining guests who are traveling). Savvy travelers make a practice of heat-washing all items upon returning from a trip.

Cost-Effective and Money-Wasting Bed Bug Control Methods (Rutgers NJAES) .

Bedbugs. Center for Disease Control (CDC)

Bedbugs . Mayo Clinic.

About Bed Bugs

What to know.

Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases to people.
Bites can cause itching, loss of sleep, and, rarely, allergic reactions.
Prevent bed bugs by regularly looking for signs of infestation.

More Information

Bed bugs ( Cimex species ) are small, flat insects. Bed bugs bite people and animals at night while they sleep, feeding on their blood.

Bed bugs are reddish-brown in color, are wingless, and range from 1mm to 7mm in size (roughly the size of Lincoln's head on a penny). They can live several months without a blood meal.

Bed bugs are not known to spread diseases to people. However, they cause irritation, itching, and loss off sleep. Removal from dwellings can be expensive and inconvenient to remove.

Where you can find bed bugs

You can find bed bugs anywhere, from North and South America, to Africa, Asia, and Europe. Bed bugs are in five-star hotels and resorts. How clean a place is does not determine whether bed bugs are present.

Signs and symptoms

Although bed bugs are not known to spread diseases to people, they can cause itching and loss of sleep. Sometimes intense itching can lead to excessive scratching and possibly a secondary skin infection. An allergic reaction to several bites is possible. If you think you are having an allergic reaction to bed bug bites, speak with your healthcare provider.

How to tell if you've been bitten

Bed bug bites affect each person differently. Signs of a bed bug bites include

No physical signs
Small bite marks
Serious allergic reactions (rare).

When bed bugs bite, they inject fluids (anesthetic and anticoagulant) that prevents a person from feeling the bite when it happens. Most people do not notice the bite marks until they appear from one to several days after the initial bite.

Bites look similar to mosquito or flea bites—a slightly swollen and red area that may itch and be irritating. The bite marks may be random or appear in a straight line.

Other symptoms of bed bug bites include insomnia, anxiety, and skin problems that arise from intense scratching of the bites.

Allergic reactions are possible

Allergic symptoms can include enlarged bite marks, painful swellings at the bite site, and, on rare occasions, anaphylaxis. If you think you are having an allergic reaction to bed bug bites, speak with your healthcare provider.

Exposure risks

Everyone is at risk for getting bed bugs when visiting an infested area. However, you are at higher risk of getting bed bugs if you travel frequently and share living and sleeping space where other people have previously slept.

Causes and spread

Bed bugs are experts at hiding. Their slim flat bodies allow them to fit into very small spaces. They can go long periods of time without a blood meal.

Bed bugs spread by getting into the seams and folds of luggage, overnight bags, folded clothes, bedding, furniture, and anywhere else they can hide. Most people do not realize they are transporting bed bugs and infecting areas as they travel.

Resource‎

Reducing risk.

Early detection and eradication of bed bugs can make infestations easier to control. For those that travel, it may be helpful to look for signs of infestation, such as exoskeletons or bed bugs in folds of mattresses and sheets, in sleeping areas.

Where to look for bed bugs

Bed bug infestations usually happen around or near areas where people sleep. This includes apartments, shelters, houses, hotels, cruise ships, buses, trains, and dorm rooms.

The bugs hide during the day in places on or around the bed. They can hide in

The seams of mattresses
Box springs
Bed frames and headboards
Dresser tables
Inside cracks or crevices
Behind wallpaper

Bed bugs can travel over 100 feet in a night but tend to live within 8 feet of where people sleep.

Signs of an infestation

One of the easiest ways to identify a bed bug infestation is by bite marks on the face, neck, arms, hands, or any other body parts after sleeping. However, these bite marks may take as long as 14 days to develop in some people. It's important to look for other clues to determine if you have an infestation.

Exoskeletons (shed after molting),
Bed bugs in the fold of mattresses and sheets,
Rusty–colored blood spots on mattresses or nearby furniture, and
A sweet musty odor.

Treating bites

Bed bug bites can cause inflammatory reactions in some people, but usually do not require medical treatment. The best way to treat a bite is to apply antiseptic creams or lotions to help with itching and to avoid scratching the area (to prevent secondary infections). For people with itchy inflammatory reactions, an antihistamine may help control the itching.

Treating infestations

If you think you have a bed bug infestation, contact a professional pest control company experienced with treating bed bugs. They will typically spray insecticides to treat the area.

Bed bugs are small, flat, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of people and animals while they sleep. They do not spread disease.

For Everyone

Health care providers.

Can Bed Bugs Travel on Clothes You’re Wearing?

by Chad Simpson | Dec 8, 2023 | Bed Bug Facts

Are you concerned that bed bugs might be hitching a ride home with you on your clothes? It’s unsettling to think about, but these tiny pests are indeed capable of crawling onto your garments and making themselves at home.

This insightful guide will arm you with the knowledge to understand how bed bugs interact with clothing, their survival capabilities, and measures to prevent infestations. Gear up – we’re going bug hunting!

Key Takeaways

Bed bugs can hitchhike on clothes and potentially infest your home.
While they are unlikely to live in the clothes you’re wearing, bed bugs can crawl onto fabrics like clothing and hide in cracks and crevices of your belongings.
Regularly washing and drying clothes at high temperatures can help kill any potential bed bugs that may have latched onto them during travel or from an infested environment.
To prevent bed bugs from infesting your clothes, regularly inspect them for signs of bed bugs, keep your clothes off the floor while traveling or staying in hotels, and consider using garment bags or sealing them tightly in plastic bags.

Understanding Bed Bugs

Bed bugs, those pesky little pests that keep you up at night, can quickly infest your home if not properly addressed. But before we delve into preventing their spread through clothes, let’s first understand these bloodsucking critters and the signs of an infestation .

Signs of an infestation

Unusual bite marks on the skin often signal a bed bug infestation. Tiny red welts in zigzag or straight lines pop up, but remember not everyone reacts to their bites. Another clear indicator is the presence of tiny black spots on your mattress or bedding, which are bed bug excrements.

Cast skins, as bugs grow and shed their outer shell also serve as tell-tale signs. A more severe infestation might be accompanied by a sweet yet musty odor due to their scent glands.

Bed bugs aren’t confined to beds alone; they find refuge in furniture seams, cracks in the wall, behind wallpapers – basically any undisturbed places close to a human environment.

Where do bed bugs come from?

Bed bugs can come from a variety of places, and they are excellent hitchhikers. They may be brought into your home through infested furniture, such as used mattresses or couches. If you stay in hotels or travel frequently, bed bugs can also hide in your luggage or clothing and then make their way into your living space.

They can even spread from neighboring apartments if there is an existing infestation. It’s important to be vigilant and take preventive measures to avoid introducing these pesky pests into your home.

Can they spread diseases?

Bed bugs, although pesky and irritating, are not known to spread diseases. While their bites may cause itchiness and discomfort, they do not transmit any harmful pathogens or illnesses.

So while a bed bug infestation can be frustrating, you can at least take solace in knowing that they won’t make you sick.

Risks of Bed Bugs Traveling on Clothes

Bed bugs can easily hitchhike on clothes, allowing them to spread and potentially infest your home.

How they can hitchhike on clothes

Bed bugs are crafty little pests that can easily hitchhike on clothes, using them as a mode of transportation to infest new areas. These tiny insects have the ability to crawl onto fabrics like clothing and cling tightly in their search for food and shelter.

So, if you encounter bed bugs in one location, be cautious when you leave because they might just tag along on your clothes, ready to make themselves at home wherever you go next.

Can they live on clothes?

Bed bugs are unlikely to live in the clothes you’re actually wearing because they prefer stationary habitats, and you move around too much. However, bed bugs can still hitch a ride on your clothes if they are infesting furniture or other items nearby.

They can crawl onto fabrics like clothing and hide in the cracks and crevices of your belongings. While they can survive for extended periods without feeding, regular washing and drying at high temperatures can help kill any potential bed bugs that may have latched onto your clothes during travel or from an infested environment.

Taking preventive measures, such as regularly inspecting for signs of bed bugs and maintaining cleanliness, can also reduce the risk of them getting on your clothes in the first place.

How long can they survive on clothes?

Bed bugs can survive on clothes for extended periods of time, even without a source of food. These resilient pests are known to live and thrive on clothes that have been stored or packed away for months.

So, if you suspect that your clothes may be infested with bed bugs, it’s important to take immediate action to eliminate them. Don’t let these sneaky insects hitch a ride into your home!

Can washing clothes kill them?

Washing clothes can effectively kill bed bugs. These pesky pests cannot survive high temperatures, so washing your infested clothes in hot water and then drying them on a high heat setting will help eliminate the bed bugs.

It is important to follow this process for at least 30 minutes to ensure that all stages of the bed bug life cycle are killed off. Remember to seal the infested clothes in a plastic bag before taking them to be washed to prevent spreading the infestation further.

Preventing Bed Bugs from Traveling on Clothes

To prevent bed bugs from traveling on your clothes, it is important to be proactive in spotting them and taking necessary steps while traveling.

How to spot bed bugs

To spot bed bugs, you need to be vigilant and look for certain signs. Start by checking your bedding, including the mattress seams, headboard, and box spring for small brownish or reddish dots – these could be bed bug droppings.

Look out for tiny white eggs or shed skin casings as well. Pay attention to any musty odor in the room, as this can indicate a larger infestation. Finally, keep an eye on your body for unexplained bites or clusters of red welts that appear overnight.

By regularly inspecting your surroundings and monitoring your own skin, you can catch a bed bug problem early on and take action to eliminate it swiftly.

Steps to take while traveling

When traveling, it is important to take steps to prevent bringing bed bugs back home with you. Start by inspecting your hotel room for any signs of an infestation, such as tiny dark spots or shed insect skins.

Keep your luggage elevated and away from the bed or furniture. When returning home, immediately wash and dry your clothes on high heat to kill any potential bed bugs that may have hitchhiked on them.

Vacuum your luggage thoroughly before storing it away. By being proactive and taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of bringing bed bugs into your home from your travels.”.

How to prevent bed bugs from infesting your clothes

To prevent bed bugs from infesting your clothes, there are a few important steps you can take. First, regularly inspect your clothing for any signs of bed bugs, such as small brownish stains or tiny eggs.

If you notice anything suspicious, immediately wash and dry the affected items at high temperatures to kill any potential bed bugs. When traveling or staying in hotels, keep your clothes off the floor and store them in sealed bags or suitcases to avoid picking up hitchhiking pests.

Finally, consider using bedbug-proof covers on your mattress and pillows to create a protective barrier. Being proactive and vigilant can significantly reduce the risk of bed bug infestations in your clothes.

What to Do If You Suspect an Infestation

If you suspect a bed bug infestation, it is crucial to call a professional pest control service immediately.

Calling a professional pest control service

If you suspect a bed bug infestation in your home or if you’re dealing with persistent bed bugs on your clothes, it’s time to call a professional pest control service. These experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools needed to effectively eliminate bed bugs from your home.

They can conduct a thorough inspection to determine the extent of the infestation and develop a customized treatment plan. Professional pest control services use safe and effective methods to exterminate bed bugs, ensuring that they are eliminated at all stages of their life cycle.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for help – calling a professional will give you peace of mind knowing that your bed bug problem will be taken care of efficiently and effectively.

Proper steps for handling infested clothes

If you suspect that your clothes are infested with bed bugs, it’s important to take proper steps to handle the situation. Start by carefully removing and bagging the infested clothes in a sealed plastic bag.

Do not shake or throw them around, as this can cause the bugs to spread. Next, wash the clothes in hot water and dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes to kill any remaining bed bugs.

If washing is not possible, you can also place the clothes in a dryer on high heat for 30 minutes. After handling infested clothes, make sure to thoroughly clean and vacuum your living area to eliminate any potential hiding spots for bed bugs.

Tips for preventing future infestations.

To prevent future bed bug infestations , there are several steps you can take. First, regularly inspect your home for any signs of bed bugs, such as dark spots or blood stains on bedding and furniture.

Second, when traveling or staying in hotels, keep your luggage off the floor and inspect the room for any signs of infestation before settling in. Third, to protect your clothes from potential hitchhiking bed bugs, consider using garment bags or sealing them tightly in plastic bags while traveling or storing them.

Finally, regularly clean and vacuum your home to help eliminate any stray bed bugs that may have made their way inside. By being proactive and vigilant, you can greatly reduce the risk of future bed bug infestations in your home.

In conclusion, while it’s unlikely for bed bugs to live in the clothes you’re wearing, they can still hitch a ride on fabrics like clothing. Although they cannot bite through your clothes, they can infest your home if you bring them in from an infested area.

Taking preventive measures, like regularly washing and drying your clothes at high temperatures, can help reduce the risk of bed bugs spreading to your home. Stay vigilant and take the necessary steps to protect yourself from these pesky pests!

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Top Ten Tips to Prevent or Control Bed Bugs

Bed bugs tips (to print)

10 consejos útiles para eliminar las chinches de cama en español

1. Make sure you really have bed bugs, not fleas, ticks or other insects.

You can compare your insect to the pictures on our Identifying bed bugs Web page or show it to your local extension agent . (Extension agents are trained in pest control issues and know your local area.)

2. Don't panic!

3. think through your treatment options -- don't immediately reach for the spray can..

Be comprehensive in your approach. Try other things first. Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques may reduce the number of bed bugs and limit your contact with pesticides. If pesticides are needed, always follow label directions or hire a professional. There is help available to learn about treatment options . (4 pp, 480 K, About PDF)

4. Reduce the number of hiding places -- Clean up the clutter.

A cluttered home provides more places for bed bugs to hide and makes locating and treating them harder. If bed bugs are in your mattress, using special bed bug covers (encasements) on your mattress and box springs makes it harder for bed bugs to get to you while you sleep. Leave the encasements on for a year. Be sure to buy a product that has been tested for bed bugs and is strong enough to last for the full year without tearing.

5. Regularly wash and heat-dry your bed sheets, blankets, bedspreads and any clothing that touches the floor.

This reduces the number of bed bugs. Bed bugs and their eggs can hide in laundry containers/hampers Remember to clean them when you do the laundry.

6. Do-it-yourself freezing may not be a reliable method for bed bug control.

While freezing can kill bed bugs, temperatures must remain very low for a long time. Home freezers may not be cold enough to kill bed bugs; always use a thermometer to accurately check the temperature. Putting things outside in freezing temperatures could kill bed bugs, but there are many factors that can affect the success of this method.

7. Kill bed bugs with heat, but be very careful.

Raising the indoor temperature with the thermostat or space heaters won’t do the job. Special equipment and very high temperatures are necessary for successful heat treatment. Black plastic bags in the sun might work to kill bed bugs in luggage or small items, if the contents become hot enough. Bed bugs die when their body temperatures reaches 45°C (113°F). To kill bed bugs with heat, the room or container must be even hotter to ensure sustained heat reaches the bugs no matter where they are hiding

8. Don’'t pass your bed bugs on to others.

Bed bugs are good hitchhikers. If you throw out a mattress or furniture that has bed bugs in it, you should slash or in some way destroy it so that no one else takes it and gets bed bugs.

9. Reduce the number of bed bugs to reduce bites.

Thorough vacuuming can get rid of some of your bed bugs. Carefully vacuum rugs, floors, upholstered furniture, bed frames, under beds, around bed legs, and all cracks and crevices around the room. Change the bag after each use so the bed bugs can’t escape. Place the used bag in a tightly sealed plastic bag and in an outside garbage bin.

10. Turn to the professionals, if needed.

Hiring an experienced, responsible pest control professional can increase your chance of success in getting rid of bed bugs. If you hire an expert, be sure it’s a company with a good reputation and request that it use an IPM approach. Contact your state pesticide agency for guidance about hiring professional pest control companies. Also, EPA's Citizen's Guide to Pest Control and Pesticide Safety provides information about IPM approaches, how to choose a pest control company, safe handling of pesticides, and emergency information.

Bed Bugs Home
Learn about Bed Bugs
— Characteristics of Bed Bugs
— Finding Bed Bugs
Protecting Your Home
Protecting Yourself in Public Places
Getting Rid of Bed Bugs
— Do-it-yourself Bed Bug Control
— Pesticides to Control Bed Bugs
Bed Bug Information Clearinghouse
Bed Bug Product Search Tool
Finding Help with Bed Bug Problems

5 ways bed bugs can invade your home

Here’s 5 ways bed bugs can easily enter your home

When it comes to pests, bed bugs are the ultimate nuisance. Even if you know how to get rid of bed bugs , it’s an extensive task which often requires repeat applications. Should one female survive, it can continue laying eggs and soon put you back at square one again. And seeing as bed bugs can live all over your home — not just near your bed, if an infestation gets extensive, it can take a long time to deal with. Leaving you constantly looking out for 7 telltale signs of bed bugs in your home .

And you will want to get rid of these pests as soon as you can. On top of feeding on your blood as you sleep, causing skin irritations and sometimes infections, they’re not hygienic to have around the home. Eradicating bed bugs can cause such strife, that it’s good practice to know how they spread into your home in the first place. That’s why we’ve listed 5 such ways bed bugs can travel into your home — so you know what to be wary of in the future and how to avoid potential infestations. Try not to itch yourself as you read this.

1. Clothes

A woman carrying shopping bags in the mall

The first and most well-known way bed bugs can spread into your home is via your clothes. These pests won’t travel directly on your skin or hair, nor will they likely travel via the clothes you’re wearing — they’re not fans of our body heat or the aggressive movement. But, still they will happily hitchhike on any alternative textiles, including packed or bagged clothes. That means if your unworn clothes come into contact with any materials or surfaces which carry bed bugs, these pests have a chance to transfer over. And with bed bugs moving at up to four feet a minute, this won’t take long.

Consequently, bed bugs can technically travel via any clothes you’ve purchased in retail as well as thrift stores. The appearance of bed bugs in such spaces is not surprising when you consider the large number of customers bringing in clothes from their homes, as well as returning items. You can check for signs of bed bugs before you purchase by looking out for stains that may be left behind — the feces of bed bugs appears almost like an ink stain. There may also be sticky white eggs or shells, about 1mm in length, if the item has been undisturbed for some time. Failing that, you can even see bed bugs — they’re about 5mm in length. If you suspect bed bugs in a store, be sure to tell the staff immediately to limit its spreading.

2. Furniture

Two people carrying a couch across a room

As we mentioned in the first point, bed bugs will happily latch onto textiles during travel. That means other fabric-based items you bring into your home are unfortunately at risk too, including furniture. Upholstery, such as a fabric couch, can become a hotspot for bed bugs in the right conditions. This is because it provides shelter, as well as a nearby location to where you might rest at night. So it stands to reason that you must take care when you purchase such items, particularly if they’re second-hand and come from a previous home.

Bed bugs can be carried in all sorts of items including curtains, chairs, box springs and mattresses. So always inspect new furniture to prevent an infestation. You’re looking out for some of the same signs as above, including feces and egg shells. Shed skins might also be prevalent as a sign of maturing bed bugs. You might also detect a faint musty smell. Make sure such items are effectively steam cleaned to kill any potential bed bugs before bringing them into your home.

3. Boxes

A couple on a couch with boxes in front filled with items

Textiles aren’t the only go-to surface for traveling bed bugs either — cardboard boxes can provide a cozy solution too. It makes for the perfect hideaway for bed bugs because it’s dark, sheltered and often undisturbed. It’s an ideal sanctuary for alternative pests for the same reason, including roaches . So you might want to think twice if there’s a number of boxes tucked under your bed.

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Bed bugs can survive for up to 400 days without feeding, according to the UC IPM — although this depends on several factors including temperature, humidity and the age of the bed bugs — which means they can easily be transferred inside of such objects when moved from property to property. So whether you’re using infested boxes to move home, or receive a box of items from a neighbor, it’s something to be aware of and to check before you bring it indoors. Replace such stored boxes with plastic, sealed containers instead to play it safe, such as these Rubbermaid Cleverstore Clear Plastic Storage Bins with Lid ( $111, Amazon ).

4. Neighbors

Two adjoining front doors, with one red and one blue

Speaking of neighbors, unfortunately bed bugs can be transferred directly from home to home too, especially if they’re in close proximity, such as adjoining apartments. If there are any cracks or gaps in your walls, bed bugs can travel between the two adjoining properties. They can even make their way in via electrical outlets and light switches.

If a close neighbor reports bed bugs, you should first do a thorough sweep for signs of bed bugs in your home, checking continually until the infestation is dealt with. This includes looking out for bite marks on your skin, blood stains or feces in your bedding, eggs, husks and musty odors, although early stages of an infestation may not be so obvious, so you will need to be diligent. Check all hidden areas around your home, shining a flashlight in dark and undisturbed spaces around your bed, mattress and bedding, and in any cracks or crevices in your walls and furniture.

You will need to avoid physical contact with this neighbor or neighbors where possible until the situation is resolved, otherwise you risk introducing bed bugs into your home. Having said that, it's still good practice to call or message your neighbors and stay in contact. This is so you can help keep them at ease and stay informed on the progress. Be sure to check your clothes, shoes and any items you’ve carried with you for signs of bed bugs before you enter your home. Don’t leave any items on the floor outside either — bed bugs may be present in the communal hallway.

It’s a good idea to contact your landlord or property manager to decide whether a formal inspection or further action is needed with regard to your property. Going forward, you can seal up any unnecessary cracks or gaps in walls you might share. Keep your home clean and tidy to deter bed bugs too; vacuum the space regularly (at least once a week) with one of the best vacuum cleaners (sealing and disposing of the residue after each session), wash bedding on the hottest cycle allowed in the best washing machines , and run a steam cleaner over your upholstery. You can always set up bed bug traps if you're concerned too, such as this Ortho Home Defense Max Bed Bug Trap ( $13, Amazon ).

If these pests have invaded your property, here’s how to get rid of bed bugs for advice on what to do next. If you don't want to handle these pests yourselves, you can always call in a professional.

5. Hotels

A woman opening up the curtains in a hotel room

Considering bed bugs often travel on clothing, it’s no surprise that hotels can become a hotspot for these pests. With travelers coming and going, some guests will unknowingly introduce bed bugs into the room in which they’re staying. And as new guests take up residence, they can easily pick up an unwanted parting gift via their suitcases. That’s why checking for bed bugs is one of the 7 things to always do when you check into a hotel room .

If you suspect bed bugs in a hotel room, tell the staff immediately. The room will need to be inspected and if their presence is confirmed, it will need to be sectioned off and cleaned to remove the pests. In such cases, your luggage and clothing will need to be cleaned before you return home too.

If guests visit your home, they too can bring bed bugs in via their luggage. There’s not a lot you can do to prevent bed bugs in these circumstances, but you can be wary of their presence and address them at an early stage to make removal easier. If your guests inform you at a later date that they’ve got bed bugs, this can also alert you to their potential presence. Here are 7 telltale signs of bed bugs in your home .

Hotels aren’t the only establishments to be wary of bed bugs in either. Anywhere with high traffic and rotating guests are prone to these pests, such as hospitals and university dorms.

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I’m an Entomologist. Here’s How I Avoid Bed Bugs When I Travel

Photo of luggage to prevent bed bugs when traveling

If you’re traveling this summer , you might be worried about bed bugs crawling into your luggage and hitching a ride home with you. With all those creepy Paris infestation headlines circulating online last year and, more recently, reports of sightings in several Las Vegas strip hotels , it’s hard not to freak out.

Thankfully, these critters don’t transmit diseases to humans, Jody Gangloff-Kaufmann, PhD , an entomologist and senior associate of the New York State Integrated Pest Management Program at Cornell University, tells SELF. But still, bed bugs are considered public health pests for good reason: “They can bite on exposed skin at night—the face, neck, arms, legs, hands, feet,” Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann explains.

In rare cases, their bites can cause severe allergic reactions (like life-threatening anaphylaxis ), and scratching them can sometimes lead to secondary skin infections such as impetigo and ecthyma. Not to mention, these pests multiply quickly and can easily take over your home, which may do a number on your mental health. So, it’s a good idea to protect yourself, especially if you’re staying in a hotel or vacation rental.

That’s because, as the name implies, bed bugs are usually found in, yep, beds. (They feed on human blood , so where better to lurk than where we sleep and lie still for hours?) As they reproduce, however, “they can spread to other nearby areas, like side tables or under lamps, as well as rugs and curtains,” Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann explains.

Before you completely spiral and cancel your trip, though, there are a few steps you can take to keep your vacation as pest-free as possible. Below, Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann shares her top three tips for avoiding bed bugs when traveling.

1. Don’t leave your luggage on your bed.

Whatever you do, avoid putting your suitcase on the bed, where those little creepy crawlers tend to hide. “Bed bugs thrive in crevices close to humans,” Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann says—meaning they can also live in the nooks and crannies of places like couches, armchairs, rugs, and carpeted floors.

Instead, prop your belongings above the ground, ideally on a luggage rack (you can usually find one in the closet or entryway of a hotel room): “Bed bugs can technically climb, but they wouldn’t—not unless a person is sitting on [the rack]—since these pests are motivated by a host’s scent and warmth,” she says.

If your accommodation doesn’t have a luggage rack, you can also place your suitcase on a hard, tiled surface (like the bathroom floor) or, as recommended by the American Lodging and Hotel Association , in the car until you’ve done a thorough inspection (see below). Another option: Cover your luggage with a plastic trash bag.

2. Strip the sheets and examine every inch of your mattress.

To thoroughly scan your room for bed bugs, Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann says to start by stripping the sheets, blankets, and pillows from the bed. (Yes, it’s kind of inconvenient, but it’s worth the hassle to ensure your safety.) Then, lift the mattress and use your phone’s flashlight to check for signs of these unwelcome guests (read on for the biggest red flags).

Don’t stop there: “Other places to inspect include the boxspring sides, the bed skirt if there is one, and all around and behind the headboard,” she adds. (You can do this by pulling the bed away from the wall, if possible.) And make sure to examine the furniture too—sofa, chairs, nightstands—as well as curtains and rugs.

Okay, so what exactly should you look for? It’s important to recognize bed bugs in all their life stages (eggs, newly hatched babies, and adults) along with their telltale markings (including blood stains and fecal droppings—fun!). Googling photos (or referencing the images below) is probably the easiest way to ID these things, but here’s a quick rundown: Adult bed bugs are mahogany-colored, wingless (unlike beetles or cockroaches), and about the size of a lentil or apple seed. They’re round (and plump) if they’ve eaten, Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann says, and flatter, longer, and more ovular if they haven’t.

Newly hatched babies are much smaller (about 1 mm long) and change in color depending on if they’ve ingested blood: They’re pale white or clear if they haven’t but if they have, you can see the blood in their bodies, making them appear red, tan, or mahogany-brown, Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann explains. Their eggs are pearl white but may be hard to see without a flashlight since, she says, they’re the size of “a comma in The New York Times .”

Sidebyside photo of a newly hatched bed bug and bed bug eggs

You may also encounter their poop stains (tiny clusters of brown or black spots). “They look like magic marker dots [about this size: •], and if you were to wipe the marks with a damp cloth or paper towel, the residue would be rust-colored, reddish-brown,” she explains. Bed bugs can also shed their “skin” (technically, their exoskeleton), so you might stumble upon a translucent, possibly light brown, empty shell.

Sidebyside of bed bug poop stains and exoskeleton

3. To play it safe, fire up your hair dryer to exterminate potential intruders.

Most standard pesticide sprays won’t kill bed bugs, but you know what will? Heat. According to the Environmental Protection Agency , these bloodsuckers die when their body temperature reaches 113 degrees Fahrenheit.

Whether you’ve possibly spotted these critters or just want to be extra cautious, using a hair dryer is an easy way to exterminate them with lethal heat and ensure they won’t bite or reproduce. Of course, it’s hard to gauge whether your tool has reached that perfect temperature. That’s why Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann suggests using this simple trick: Blow hot air under the seams of the mattress, around the boxspring, behind the headboard, and so on, and hold the dryer in each spot for a few seconds. Then, touch the area you just blasted: If it feels uncomfortably hot on your hand, that should definitely be intense enough to scorch a bed bug.

Dr. Gangloff-Kaufmann’s final bit of advice: Even if you’re confident you’ve dodged any little hitchhikers, it’s smart to do a quick post-vacation inspection too: She recommends giving your belongings a once-over for any of the above signs, tossing your clothes (including unworn ones) into a hot dryer for 30 minutes, and scanning your body for possible bites. (Everyone reacts differently, but they typically resemble a cluster of mosquito or flea bites and may be itchy and swollen, per the CDC ).

Now that you’re armed with some pre- (and post-) getaway tips, hopefully you can travel with more peace of mind—and return home without any unwanted souvenirs.

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Anyone who has experienced them can confirm that dealing with bed bugs is an absolute nightmare! These blood-sucking critters will infest every crevice of your home, biting you when you fall asleep and leaving painful, red dots behind on your skin. So how do the little devils get into your home in the first place?

Can you bring bed bugs home on the clothes you’re wearing?

First, let’s examine how bed bugs spread. Bed bugs will set up a sort of home base as their colony. This can be a mattress, box spring, sofa, bed frame , or other stationary location that provides them with both cover and a steady supply of humans to snack on.

Bed bugs are not a fan of moving around. They like peace and quiet. This is why they wait until their humans are asleep before sucking their blood. Fortunately, this means that they typically will not try to explore your clothes if you sit on a bed bug infested couch or other colony sources for a short period of time.

However, it is not entirely unheard of for bedbugs to transfer onto clothing. If you take a nap on a bed bug colony’s location, some of the pests can attach themselves to your clothes, but it is far more common for them to hitch a ride on a suitcase or other forms of luggage left out in a hotel room. When staying in a hotel, is it best to keep your suitcase stored on metal luggage racks rather than on the floor or a chair.

Leaving your dirty clothes in a pile on the floor or stacked up on the bed will also increase bed bugs’ chances of seeing them as a viable spot to explore. Clothing on bodies will most likely not attract them.

How long do bed bugs live on clothes?

Bed bugs will not simply die on their own if they are left on your clothes. If you bring your clothes home with you, they may use your laundry as one of their home bases and crawl out at night to feed .

Bed bugs also have the capability to survive for quite a while without food. Studies have shown that bed bugs can survive without a meal for 20 to 400 days, depending on the temperature. You can try starving them out, but you may have to wait a year! Since you likely need the clothes that are infested with bed bugs, it is not a good idea to wait for them to die off on their own .

Should you throw away clothes infested with bed bugs?

By this point, you may be ready to trash or burn your clothes. But don’t worry! You can get rid of bed bugs in your clothes.

Like it says above, bed bugs will typically not select your clothing to live in. Instead, they may have taken up residence in your mattress crevices or other furniture. You need to treat the bed bugs source to get rid of them completely, or you will be forced to treat your clothing repeatedly.

If you think that the bed bugs are only in your clothing, congratulations! It is much easier to treat your clothing than to try to exterminate a bed bug colony in a heavy piece of furniture. If you are waking up with multiple bed bug bites , there is a good chance that they are not only in your clothes.

When it comes to treating clothes for bed bugs, the first step is to contain them so that the bugs cannot spread somewhere else and hide. Take the infested items in question and place them in sealed plastic bags before you do anything else-double layer the bags to be extra sure that no bugs escape. Even one fertile female can restart the colony on her own and grow a bed bug population quickly.

You may be worried that the bed bugs have decided to hitch a ride on your body even after you isolate your clothes, but don’t panic. This is highly unlikely. Bed bugs prefer immobile, sleeping humans to ones that are upright and moving around. If you feel bugs crawling on you , it is most likely psychological (due to the grossness of finding bugs in your clothes) or some other kind of pests.

How do you wash clothes if you suspect bed bugs?

If you are worried that your clothing is infested with bed bugs, you can wash them to get rid of the pests. Look around to make sure that bed bugs have not already chosen somewhere else to settle. Take any clothing or sheets that have come into contact with the suspected fabric with you, and ensure it is sealed properly as well.

Once your clothing has been carefully sealed, take them to where you plan to wash them. Be careful during transport that there are no openings in the bags containing your clothing.

Once you have reached your laundry machine, carefully tip the bag of infested clothes into your washing machine. Dispose of the empty plastic bag into a separate clean bag just in case some bed bugs remain in the trash bag.

Wash your clothing at the hottest temperature that your clothing allows for with your regular laundry detergent. Once your clothes have been washed, carefully and quickly transfer them to your dryer.

How long should clothes be in the dryer to kill bed bugs?

To effectively kill adult bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) and their eggs , your dryer should reach temperatures above 120 degrees for more than 30 minutes. Keep your clothes in the dryer until they are completely dry.

Killing Bed Bugs on Your Clothes With A Steamer

The main enemy of bed bugs is intense heat, so you may also find success using a high-powered steamer on your clothes. This will not need the same amount of time as the washing and drying method, as the heat should be enough to kill bed bugs on contact. Carefully go over all of your clothing with the steamer. After treating your clothes, you may want to wash them again to get rid of any dead bugs left inside of them.

If you are still waking up with multiple bite marks, you may be dealing with a serious bed bug infestation that can’t be treated on your own. Use our pest control hotline today to connect with local experts and put an end to your bed bug problem for good!

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Bedbugs: How to avoid bringing them home

How to check for bedbugs

Bedbugs can cause a great deal of anxiety. To find bedbugs before they find you, follow these dermatologist tips.

How to avoid bedbugs when you travel

To reduce your chance of bringing bedbugs home, follow these dermatologist tips to check your hotel room, cabin, or other lodgings when traveling.

Place your luggage in the bathroom. When you arrive, temporarily place your luggage in a tiled area, like the bathroom, while you inspect your room. There are fewer spots for bedbugs to hide in bathrooms, so you can check your room without worry.

Rusty or reddish specks of blood.
Tiny, blackish dots that look like dots made by a marker — these may be bedbug feces.
Whitish, oval bedbug eggs the size of apple seeds.
Shell-like bedbug exoskeletons.
Live bedbugs.
After you check your room, you can bring your luggage in.
Place your bags on a luggage rack away from the wall.
If you find signs of bedbugs, request a new room.
Use a flashlight to check the contents of your bags, including the seams of your clothing. Then, look closely at your luggage to make sure no bedbugs are hiding inside.
If you find signs of bedbugs in your luggage, wash your clothes on high heat and use a hand steamer to clean your luggage.

If you notice any bedbug bites or experience blistering, a skin infection (bites feel tender or ooze discharge, such as pus), or an allergic reaction (red or purple swollen skin or hives), partner with a board-certified dermatologist.

How to avoid bringing bedbugs home in secondhand beds and other furniture

Bedbugs can be hard to find in secondhand beds and other furniture. If the bedbugs have not eaten for some time, you may not see signs of them. Bedbugs can live for about a year without eating.

You can prevent picking up bedbugs from secondhand furniture by not bringing secondhand furniture into your home.

Written by: Shelby Homiston Brooke Schleehauf

Reviewed by: Neelam Khan, MD, MS, FAAD Roopal Vashi Kundu, MD, FAAD William Warren Kwan, MD, FAAD Ata Moshiri, MD, MPH, FAAD Sanna Ronkainen, MD, FAAD Desmond Shipp, MD, FAAD

Last updated: 3/13/24

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Bed Bug Prevention Tips for Before, During, and After Travel

Everything to know from traversing the airport to unpacking when you get home.

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A bed bug outbreak in Paris just nine months before the Olympic Games has tourists wondering how to prevent and treat those pesky critters, so Travel + Leisure spoke with experts about what to look out for and what to do if the insects do pop up.

First things first: don’t panic. Bed bugs are annoying and difficult to get rid of, but they’re not typically dangerous, Eric Braun, a board certified entomologist and technical services manager for Terminix, told T+L. In fact, bed bugs aren’t known to transmit any diseases.

“It's the ick factor, right? They find them in areas where you're sleeping, where you're at your most vulnerable, where you feel protected and they're invading that space,” Braun said. “It's more of a psychological impact than it is a health-related impact.”

Since they’re not going to hurt you, Braun said his “main concern” isn’t getting bit, but rather “bringing them home and causing an infestation.”

From packing, to traversing the airport, to entering your hotel, and more, these preventative tips will hopefully keep your dream vacation from turning into a bug-infested nightmare.

Pick the right luggage

Bed bugs like dark cracks and crevices where they can hide, Braun said. While it’s possible for them to crawl onto any surface, they typically “like to come out when we're sedentary… so it's not probable that you're going to be walking down the airport and one is going to jump on your suitcase and tag along with you.”

That said, they can climb onto any surface. That’s why packing in hardside luggage will make it less likely bed bugs will attach to the surface than if the suitcase was made of fabric, according to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene .

Be strategic at the airport

While comfy plush chairs in lounges and dark nooks may feel like the ideal spot to wait out a layover, Braun said that’s probably not your best bet if you’re trying to avoid picking up any unwelcome friends. Picking a hard, smooth plastic chair may be a better choice over a booth, for example.

“It's less likely [to find bed bugs] in areas that are lit and [where] people aren't sitting for extended periods of time,” he said. “It's more probable that you would contract them in a darker, more private secluded space.”

But while bed bugs prefer darkness, they will still come out when it is light, according to information from the United States Environmental Protection Agency provided to T+L.

Braun recommended travelers inspect the area they are sitting thoroughly and “pick chairs or locations that have as few potential hiding spots for these insects as possible.”

As for when you're actually on the plane, airfarewatchdog.com suggests booking a morning or daytime flight.

"Since bed bugs are nocturnal, the likelihood of them coming out in the daytime is relatively lower," the site noted, (with the caveat that luggage may still be stored in a dark overhead bin).

Unpack smartly

The first thing Braun does when he checks into a hotel room is store his suitcase in the bathroom. He also avoids luggage racks.

“When I travel, I don't unpack my suitcase, I do not put anything in the provided drawers, I do not leave any clothing around the hotel in the bed [or] on the floor,” Braun said. “Everything should be stowed away neatly… my suitcase goes in the bathroom and if they have a tub, it goes in the tub. Those are areas that are less likely for the bed bugs to be.”

Travelers can also hang their clothes in the closet.

“The bed bugs would have to crawl up the wall of the closet, crawl onto the post of the hanger, crawl down the hanger and crawl into your clothing,” Braun said. “They're not really very motivated to do that.”

Per the American Hotel and Lodging Association , travelers should consider placing their suitcase “in a plastic trash bag or protective cover during the duration of your trip to ensure that bed bugs cannot take up residence there prior to departure.”

Go straight from vacation to the dryer

If travelers suspect they’ve been bitten or came into contact with bed bugs , they shouldn’t panic. Instead, they should unpack their clothing directly into the dryer first — not the washer.

“You [can] wash them after you dry them, but the high heat will kill the life stages. The water isn't hot enough to kill them so they could survive a washing,” Braun said. “You're going to remove all the clothing from the suitcase, all the clothing that you're currently wearing, and you're going to place that in the dryer on high for about 30 minutes… if you have some items that can't go in a dryer that need to be dry cleaned, you would bag them up and take them to the dry cleaner.”

Braun added: “You're going to then look at your luggage, inspect your luggage. If you suspect that there's bed bugs in the luggage, you're going to have that professionally treated.”

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How to prevent bed bugs when traveling

Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not a sanitation issue; they don’t discriminate and can be found in any hotel—luxury to inexpensive—and any home—big, small, clean or dirty as well as dormitories and cruise ships.

“Every traveler should take precautions to prevent bed bugs, even in the fall and winter,” said entomologist and Orkin technical Services Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D. “Bed bugs have been reported in hotels, cruise ships, homes and even public transit in some parts of the country. They are sneaky and can survive extreme temperatures .”

Find helpful tips on how to avoid bed bugs when traveling.

Do bed bugs travel on people?

Yes, bed bugs can travel on people but not necessarily on their skin. They will usually travel on a person’s belongings or clothes.

Can bed bugs travel on clothes?

Yes, bed bugs can travel on people’s clothing such as your shirt, jacket, pants, or shoes.

How do bed bugs travel?

Bed bugs can travel and will attach to luggage, purses, bags, shoes, clothing from other infested areas.

Can bed bugs survive on a plane?

Yes, bed bugs can survive on a plane and other forms of transportation like trains or cars. Bed bugs can hide in the plane seats, overhead bins, other passenger luggage and bags, or on clothes.

Can you bring bed bugs home from a hotel?

Yes, if the hotel has bed bugs, they can hitch a ride on your luggage, bags or clothing and follow you home.

How to Avoid Bed Bugs in Hotels

When traveling, think of the acronym S.L.E.E.P. to remember the following action steps to help avoid taking bed bugs home with you.

Survey your hotel room for signs of a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs are not limited to any sanitation or income level, which means they can be found in any hotel or motel—from a one-star to five-star location. Large infestations of bed bugs can create a musty, sweet odor, like soda pop syrup. They leave behind brown or red spots on sheets. While not known to spread disease like many other pests, bed bugs can leave itchy, bloody welts on the skin. (Welts more commonly appear when the victim is sensitive to bed bug bites.)

Lift and look for all bed bug hiding spots. During the day, these nocturnal insects disappear in crevices associated with mattresses, box springs, sheets, furniture, upholstery and hollow bedposts, as well as crevices behind baseboards, pictures and even torn wallpaper. Make sure to lift and look around all possible hiding spots for bed bugs in the hotel room, not just the mattress.

Elevate your luggage and other items. Carefully inspect the hotel’s luggage rack. If there are no signs of bed bugs on it, use it to keep your suitcase off the floor and away from the bed. Also pull the luggage rack away from the wall. This will reduce the likelihood of the insect crawling up the wall and getting into your things.

Examine your luggage while repacking and once you return home. Bed bugs are great hitchhikers, so be sure to check your luggage and clothing for bed bugs before bringing luggage back into the bedroom. (Orkin recommends unpacking in your garage or utility room.)

Place all your clothing from your luggage immediately in the dryer for at least 15 minutes at the highest setting upon returning home from travel.

What to Do If You Find Bed Bugs in Hotel

Notify your hotel if you find signs of a bed bug infestation immediately. You may want to consider leaving the hotel as the bed bugs can travel to other rooms.

“Once a bed bug finds its way indoors, it can move from room to room by traveling on clothing and luggage or through pipes and vacuum cleaners,” said Frank Meek, board-certified entomologist and technical director for Orkin, Inc. “This tendency to hitchhike—as well as a bed bug’s ability to survive more than a year without a blood meal—make proper prevention and control steps even more important.”

Bed Bug Tips for Travelers

How to prevent bed bugs during your travel.

Take these steps once you enter your room.

Inspect your hotel room storage area

Inspect your bags

Inspect your bed and surrounding areas like outlets and picture frames

Inspect your bathroom

Inspect the drapes

How to Prevent Bed Bugs After Travel

Take these steps before you go into the house if possible.

Inspect your clothing and shoes

Quarantine your luggage in the garage or other area outside of the home

Vacuum your luggage

Clean clothing in the washer with hot water and high heat for drying

“Bed bugs are great hitchhikers, so you have to pay close attention when traveling,” said Orkin Entomologist and Technical Services Director Ron Harrison, Ph.D. “Bed bugs can find their way into your luggage, whether it is in a hotel, on a plane, train or bus and eventually make their way back to your home. If you brought home just one bed bug, it could reproduce and get out of hand in just a few weeks.”

Research from the University of Minnesota has also suggested bed bugs are attracted to dirty clothes, so keep them in a sealed bag or container.

“It appears that body odor is one cue for bed bugs that there could be a food source nearby,” said Harrison. “It may be an evolutionary trait that leads them to your dirty laundry, which makes sense, so do everything you possibly can to ensure you do not attract bed bugs.”

How to Check Luggage for Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are tiny and can be difficult to see in a suitcase or luggage bag. To find bed bugs in a suitcase check the outside liners and threading especially if it is made of fabric. Use a wet cloth to wipe down the bags and check the cloth for any bed bugs. Open the bag and check any zippers, pockets and crevices. Get a vacuum and use it in the corners and throughout the bag.

I’m Worried I Brought Bed Bugs Home

Because bed bugs can be extremely difficult to eliminate, treating an infestation requires the use of a licensed, pest control professional with specific experience in treating for these pests.

Contact your local Orkin Pro , to set up a bed bug inspection

Click here for a printable bed bug tips for travelers guide with easy steps to help you avoid bringing bed bugs back home as a vacation souvenir.

Learn More About Bed Bugs

How to identify Bed Bugs?

Learn what Bed Bugs look like, and how to detect if you have a Bed Bug Infestation.

How do you get Bed Bugs?

Find out how Bed Bugs infiltrate your home and where they are attracted to.

How serious are Bed Bugs?

Learn about Bed Bug bites, their feces and how they can impact your health.

Bed Bug Pest Control

Learn how Orkin handles Bed Bugs, homeopathic cures and the cost of Bed Bug extermination services.

Summer Pest Control Travel Planning Tips For Vacation

Travel planning tips for a pest-free vacation.

Bed Bug Registry

Website dedicated to reporting bed bug activity across the United States and Canada for both hotels and other travel accommodations.

Protect Your Home from Bed Bugs

Are bed bugs nocturnal | do bed bugs only bite at night, do bed bugs hide in pillows | signs of bed bugs, do bed bugs feed every night | bed bug life cycle, pest control, bed bug pest control treatment | bed bug exterminator.

Do Bed Bug Bombs Work? | Bed Bug Traps

What are signs of a bed bug infestation.

Do you use super heating to kill bed bugs?

What Do Bed Bugs and Eggs Look Like on Clothes?

What do I do with the clothes?

Spraying for bed bugs did not work

If the neighboring unit has bed bugs, am I looking at being sprayed every three months?

Bed Bug Bites on Humans | Get Rid of Bed Bugs

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Bedbugs: how do I avoid them when travelling?

Learn more about bedbugs.

Bedbugs can easily hide in luggage, clothing, and other personal items, so take a few precautions while travelling to keep them from coming home with you.

While travelling

Don't bring your pillow. It gives bedbugs another place to hide and a chance to come home with you.
Pack some large white sealable plastic garbage bags in case you need to separate any belongings while on the road.

On the road or in the air

Light-coloured plastic luggage is best, because bedbugs are less attracted to plastic and the lighter colour makes them easier to spot. If you have dark-coloured or cloth luggage, you could enclose the luggage in a white plastic garbage bag and seal it.

In the hotel room

What are they?
How do I prevent an infestation?
How do I get rid of them?
How do I make sure they don't come back?
Where do I go for more information?
Do a complete inspection of the room before bringing luggage, pets or other items in.
Do not put your luggage on the bed. Place your luggage on a tile floor (like in the bathroom), away from any upholstered (soft) surfaces.
Once you have checked the luggage stand (including where the straps are attached to the metal bars), keep your luggage on the stand instead of unpacking your belongings and placing them in the drawers.
Inspect the sleeping area. Slowly lift up each corner of the mattress and examine the creases and tufts of the mattress and box spring, behind the headboard and the wall behind the bed, the pillows, bed coverings and bed skirt, the bed frame and legs.
Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the closet, paying special attention to any cracks or crevices.
During your stay, place your shoes in an open area. Do not store anything under the bed.
If you find signs of bedbugs, notify the front desk and ask for another room, or stay somewhere else. If you change rooms in the same hotel, make sure your new room is not next to the possibly infested room.

When you return

Before bringing luggage into your home, place it on a hard surface away from any places bedbugs could crawl to and hide, and check it carefully.
Unpack your clothing and check personal items (like hairbrush and cosmetic case).
Wash all clothing and fabric items in hot water, regardless of whether you wore them or not.
Dry non-washable items in the clothes dryer on the highest heat for 30 minutes.
Vacuum your luggage. Throw out the vacuum bag in a sealed garbage bag right away. Wash any vacuum cleaner brush or nozzle attachments you used in hot water with detergent. For a bagless vacuum cleaner, empty the dust collector into a garbage bag, throw out the bag immediately, and also wash the dust collector in hot water with detergent.

At the Laundromat

Avoid bringing your laundry in a cloth bag unless you plan to wash and dry the bag. Use light-coloured plastic baskets that are easy to inspect when they are empty.
Do not set your laundry basket on the floor, or near the seating area or trash cans. Place your basket on top of the washer and check it thoroughly before putting clean laundry back into it.
Check any chairs before you sit down.
Check the table used for folding laundry before putting your clean laundry on it, or fold your clean laundry at home.

For more information on pesticide use and regulation, contact Health Canada's Pest Management Information Service .

For more information

Health Canada Warns Canadians Not to Use Unregistered Bedbug Control Products
Stop Bedbugs! Start By Checking Your Room
Use pesticides safely
United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)

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COMMENTS

How Bed Bugs Spread, and How to Prevent It
Other ways to help stop the spread of bed bugs include: Keep your bedroom clean and clear of clutter where bed bugs can hide, especially clothing. Avoid secondhand furniture. If you do, check it ...
7 Myths About Bed Bugs Debunked
Myth 1: You're Safe From Bed Bugs if You Have a Foam Mattress. Truth: While bed bugs can't live in foam, they can stash themselves in any crevice that's close to your body while you're ...
Can Bed Bugs Travel on Clothes You're Wearing? How They Spread and Ways
Yes, bed bugs can travel on clothes you're wearing. They may latch onto clothing and other personal items when in close proximity to infested areas. Bed bugs are small insects that seek shelter in warm, dark places close to their food source, which is usually humans. When individuals brush against or sit on infested surfaces, the bugs can ...
Do Bed Bugs Stay on Clothes? What's The Real Truth?
If you put your clothing into a high-heat dryer daily, any bed bugs will die. Ultimately, there is no easy answer to this question of how long bed bugs stay on clothes. It all depends on why the bed bug is on your clothes in the first place. But it's important to know that if a bed bug finds its way onto your clothing, it's easy to kill ...
Top 10 Myths about Bedbugs
Myth 1: Bedbugs can fly. Bedbugs lack wings, and therefore cannot fly. That is unless you put a blow dryer behind them, says Stephen Kells, a bedbug researcher at the University of Minnesota. Then ...
How to Wash and Care for Laundry Infested With Bed Bugs
Blot and rub away spots with cold water to remove stains. Dab hydrogen peroxide (3%) on the damp areas. Use an enzyme-based fabric stain remover to break down the stains before running them through the wash. Bed bugs don't bite through fabrics and won't make holes in your laundry. However, they do crawl through the tiniest of crevices and holes.
About Bed Bugs
Bed bugs spread by getting into the seams and folds of luggage, overnight bags, folded clothes, bedding, furniture, and anywhere else they can hide. Most people do not realize they are transporting bed bugs and infecting areas as they travel. ... Bed bugs can travel over 100 feet in a night but tend to live within 8 feet of where people sleep ...
Can Bed Bugs Travel on Clothes You're Wearing?
Bed bugs are unlikely to live in the clothes you're actually wearing because they prefer stationary habitats, and you move around too much. However, bed bugs can still hitch a ride on your clothes if they are infesting furniture or other items nearby. They can crawl onto fabrics like clothing and hide in the cracks and crevices of your ...
Top Ten Tips to Prevent or Control Bed Bugs
5. Regularly wash and heat-dry your bed sheets, blankets, bedspreads and any clothing that touches the floor. This reduces the number of bed bugs. Bed bugs and their eggs can hide in laundry containers/hampers Remember to clean them when you do the laundry. 6.
How Do Bed Bugs Travel?
Bed bugs are transported by people, most often in personal belongings such as the following: Luggage & Suitcases. Purses. Gym bags. Items kept close to sleep areas. They can hide in your personal belongings, or even on you, and hitchhike a ride back to your home, condo, townhouse or apartment. Many people ask if bed bugs can jump, but they can ...
How To Tell If Bed bugs Are in Your Clothes
Then take the bagged clothes outdoors where there is plenty of natural light. This way, the bed bugs will not be able to get back to your premises. Once outside, take each piece of fabric one by one, checking carefully for bugs. If necessary, wipe the clothes with a piece of cloth or using your hands. You never know.
5 ways bed bugs can invade your home
1. Clothes. (Image credit: Shutterstock) The first and most well-known way bed bugs can spread into your home is via your clothes. These pests won't travel directly on your skin or hair, nor ...
I'm an Entomologist. Here's How I Avoid Bed Bugs When I Travel
1. Don't leave your luggage on your bed. Whatever you do, avoid putting your suitcase on the bed, where those little creepy crawlers tend to hide. "Bed bugs thrive in crevices close to humans ...
Can Bed Bugs Travel on Clothes? Are You Brining Bed Bugs Home?
The main enemy of bed bugs is intense heat, so you may also find success using a high-powered steamer on your clothes. This will not need the same amount of time as the washing and drying method, as the heat should be enough to kill bed bugs on contact. Carefully go over all of your clothing with the steamer.
How to Get Rid of Bedbugs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 4: Kill the bedbugs. You can first try to remove bedbugs without chemicals. These bugs are pretty easy to kill with high heat at 115°F (46.11°C) or intense cold at 32°F (0°C). Here are a ...
What Causes Bedbugs? Tips for Identifying and Dealing with Them
Wash and dry your clothes and bedding on high heat. High temperatures above 122 ° F are deadly to bedbugs. First, wash your clothes and bedding with detergent and hot water. Then, dry them on the ...
PDF SIMPLE WAYS TO AVOID BED BUGS WHEN YOU TRAVEL
Check mattress tufts and seams for bed bugs and their markings. • Do a quick check of pillows and upholstered furniture for signs of bed bugs. • If you can, check behind headboards and open the drawers of the nightstands and look inside. • For short stays, consider keeping your clothes in your luggage. Keep bags closed when not in use. •
Bedbugs: How to avoid bringing them home
Place your bags on a luggage rack away from the wall. If you find signs of bedbugs, request a new room. Check your luggage when you get home. After your trip, look at your belongings before unpacking to make sure no bedbugs came home with you. Use a flashlight to check the contents of your bags, including the seams of your clothing.
Can Bed Bugs Live in Your Clothes?
It's unlikely that a bed bug would live in the clothes that you're actually wearing due to the fact that you move a lot and they tend to prefer a stationary habitat. However, it's possible that bed bugs could set up camp in an unpacked suitcase, backpack or something along those lines. Of course, the insects would eventually have to set ...
Bed Bug Prevention Tips for Before, During, and After Travel
Go straight from vacation to the dryer. If travelers suspect they've been bitten or came into contact with bed bugs, they shouldn't panic. Instead, they should unpack their clothing directly ...
How to Protect Yourself from Bed Bugs when Traveling
How to Prevent Bed Bugs After Travel. Take these steps before you go into the house if possible. Inspect your bags. Inspect your clothing and shoes. Quarantine your luggage in the garage or other area outside of the home. Vacuum your luggage. Clean clothing in the washer with hot water and high heat for drying.
How to look for bed bugs
Don't just pull back the bed's fitted sheet and eyeball it. First, turn off all the lights and close the shades and turn on the flashlight on your phone, Whiting recommends. Shine the ...
Bedbugs: how do I avoid them when travelling?
Wash all clothing and fabric items in hot water, regardless of whether you wore them or not. Dry non-washable items in the clothes dryer on the highest heat for 30 minutes. Vacuum your luggage. Throw out the vacuum bag in a sealed garbage bag right away. Wash any vacuum cleaner brush or nozzle attachments you used in hot water with detergent.

7 Myths About Bed Bugs Debunked

Myth 1: You’re Safe From Bed Bugs if You Have a Foam Mattress

Myth 2: Bed Bugs Travel Only by Hitchhiking on Clothes or Other Fabric

Myth 3: A Bed Bug–Sniffing Dog Is the Best Way to Identify an Infestation

Myth 4: You’ll Need to Throw Out Everything You Own if You Have Bed Bugs

Myth 5: A Blow Dryer Is Fatal to Bed Bugs

Myth 6: Cayenne Pepper or Diatomaceous Earth Can Kill Bed Bugs

Myth 7: Once They’re Gone, They’re Gone

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Do Bed Bugs Stay on Clothes? What’s The Real Truth?

Introducing the Bed Bug Debate – Is it True or False: “Do Bed Bugs Stay on Clothes?”

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How to Wash and Care for Laundry Infested With Bed Bugs

Instructions

What Are Bed Bugs?

What You'll Need

How to Wash Laundry With Bed Bugs

Separate Dry-Clean-Only Garments

Sort Clothes Into Trash Bags

Set the Washing Machine

Transfer Clothes to the Washer

Select the Best Dryer Cycle

Fold Laundry

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For Everyone

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Key Takeaways

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