Bed bugs can hide in box springs, mattresses, baseboards, wallpaper and even the alarm clock sitting next to your bed. They’re relentless in their nightly pursuits, crawling over your skin in search of a blood meal. The only thing worse that you can imagine, is one of them crawling on your face.
Q: CAN BED BUGS LIVE IN PILLOWS?
A: The truth is, bed bugs can live in almost any place that has a host – including pillows. They spend most of their lives in hiding and typically only come out at night to find a blood meal. However, bed bugs are not big travelers and on average, will only venture out about 30 feet from their hiding spot in search of a meal. This is the reason why bed bugs choose to live in such close proximity to a host.
Q: HOW CAN YOU GET RID OF BED BUGS IN PILLOWS?
A: Bed bugs have a low tolerance to heat. If the idea of bed bugs hiding out in your pillows is keeping you up at night, put your pillows in the dryer on medium to high heat for about 20 to 30 minutes, but only if manufacturer’s instructions allow. This can kill bed bugs at all stages of life. You can throw your bed sheets in the dryer too, if you are feeling particularly itchy. Bed bug mattress protectors and pillow covers can also be purchased. This won’t prevent bed bugs from entering your home, but it will at least help prevent bed bugs in pillows that you sleep on.
Because of their size and shape, bed bugs are excellent at hiding. If you think you might have signs of bed bugs in your room, consider contacting a pest management professional. For a free bed bug inspection, contact Terminix®.
