Are Bedbugs More Active in Summer?

Bedbugs are a common household pest that can cause significant discomfort and stress. Many people wonder whether these tiny insects are more active during certain seasons, particularly in the summer. The short answer is yes—bedbugs tend to be more active in warmer months, but they can survive and thrive year-round if conditions are favorable.

In this article, we’ll explore why bedbugs are more active in summer, how temperature affects their behavior, and what you can do to prevent and control infestations during this season.

Why Are Bedbugs More Active in Summer?

Several factors contribute to increased bedbug activity during the summer months:

1. Warmer Temperatures Accelerate Their Life Cycle

Bedbugs thrive in warm environments. Their reproductive and developmental rates increase when temperatures rise, typically between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C).

Egg Hatching: Bedbug eggs hatch faster in warm weather, sometimes in as little as 6 to 10 days compared to two weeks or more in cooler conditions.
Growth Rate: Nymphs (young bedbugs) mature more quickly, requiring fewer blood meals to reach adulthood.
Reproduction: Female bedbugs lay more eggs in summer, leading to faster population growth.

2. Increased Human Activity and Travel

Summer is a peak travel season, and bedbugs often spread through luggage, clothing, and secondhand furniture.

Hotels and Vacation Rentals: More people staying in hotels or rental properties increases the chances of bedbugs hitching a ride home.
Public Transportation: Buses, trains, and airplanes see higher traffic, providing more opportunities for bedbugs to spread.
Thrift Stores & Garage Sales: Buying used furniture or clothing in summer can introduce bedbugs into homes.

3. Higher Humidity Levels

bedbug control ( væggelus bekæmpelse ) prefer moderate humidity (around 70-80%), which is common in summer. Humidity helps them avoid dehydration and survive longer without feeding.

Do Bedbugs Die in Winter?

While bedbugs are less active in cold weather, they don’t necessarily die off.

Cold Temperatures Can Kill Them—But Only at Extremes: Bedbugs begin to die when exposed to temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) for several days. However, indoor heating usually keeps them alive year-round.
Slower Metabolism in Winter: Their feeding and breeding slow down, but they can survive for months without a blood meal.

Signs of a Summer Bedbug Infestation

Since bedbugs are more active in summer, it’s important to recognize early signs of an infestation:

Bite Marks: Small, red, itchy welts in clusters or lines (often on arms, legs, or back).
Blood Stains: Tiny rust-colored spots on sheets or pillowcases from crushed bugs.
Dark Spots: Bedbug excrement (small black or brown dots) on mattresses, furniture, or walls.
Musty Odor: A sweet, musty smell from their scent glands in severe infestations.
Live Bugs: Small, reddish-brown insects (about the size of an apple seed) hiding in mattress seams, furniture, or baseboards.

How to Prevent Bedbugs in Summer

Since summer increases the risk of bedbug infestations, follow these prevention tips:

1. Inspect Hotel Rooms and Vacation Rentals

Check mattresses, headboards, and furniture for signs of bedbugs.
Keep luggage on a luggage rack or in the bathroom (away from beds and upholstered furniture).

2. Wash and Dry Clothes on High Heat After Traveling

Heat kills bedbugs, so wash and dry clothes at 120°F (49°C) or higher.

3. Avoid Secondhand Furniture Without Inspection

Carefully inspect used furniture before bringing it inside.

4. Use Protective Mattress and Box Spring Covers

Encasements trap existing bedbugs and prevent new ones from infesting your bed.

5. Reduce Clutter in Your Home

Fewer hiding spots make it easier to detect and eliminate bedbugs. For more read https://vaeggelus-fri.dk/

How to Get Rid of Bedbugs in Summer

If you already have an infestation, take these steps:

1. Wash and Heat-Treat Infested Items

Launder bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water and dry on high heat.
Place non-washable items in a sealed black bag in direct sunlight for several hours (heat kills bedbugs).

2. Vacuum Thoroughly

Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove bugs and eggs from mattresses, carpets, and furniture.

3. Use Steam Treatment

A steamer (at least 160°F or 71°C) can kill bedbugs on contact in mattresses, furniture, and baseboards.

4. Apply Diatomaceous Earth (DE) or Bedbug Sprays

Food-grade DE dehydrates and kills bedbugs over time.
EPA-approved insecticides can help, but follow instructions carefully.

5. Call a Professional Exterminator

Severe infestations often require heat treatments or chemical applications by pest control experts.

Conclusion

Bedbugs are indeed more active in summer due to warmer temperatures, increased travel, and higher humidity. However, they can survive year-round if conditions allow. The best defense is prevention—regular inspections, proper hygiene, and quick action at the first sign of an infestation.