How Bed Bugs Travel on Clothing: Risks, Prevention, and Actionable Solutions

Understanding How Bed Bugs Use Clothing to Travel

Bed bugs are notorious for their ability to spread swiftly and discreetly. While they do not live on humans or in clothing like lice, they can cling to fabric and use it as a vehicle to move from infested areas into new environments [1] . This transient attachment allows bed bugs to travel on clothing you are wearing, often remaining hidden in seams, cuffs, and folds. Clothes left on the floor, draped over furniture, or packed in bags are common targets for these pests. Once on your person, bed bugs may remain on your clothing for several hours-potentially up to a full day-especially if conditions are favorable [2] .

How Bed Bugs Behave Around Clothing

Unlike lice or fleas, bed bugs do not live on humans or remain on our bodies for extended periods. Their preferred habitats are dark, secluded crevices such as mattresses, headboards, and furniture near sleeping humans. However, in infested environments-such as hotels, public transportation, or other homes-there is a real risk that bed bugs will crawl onto your clothing [4] . They are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide but will opportunistically use garments as a means to relocate, especially if clothing is left near beds or upholstered furniture.

Bed bugs move by crawling; they do not jump or fly. Once on your clothing, they can travel undetected to new locations, increasing the likelihood of an infestation in your home or workplace [5] . Examples of how bed bugs hitchhike include:

Clothing in direct contact with infested furniture or bedding
Garments packed in bags, suitcases, or gym bags
Folded clothes in drawers or laundry baskets near infested areas

Can Bed Bugs Bite Through Clothing?

There is a common misconception that wearing clothes can protect you from bed bug bites. In reality, bed bugs cannot bite through clothing as their mouthparts are specialized only for piercing human skin [3] . However, these pests are adept at crawling under loose or thin garments to find exposed skin. Wearing thicker, tightly fitting clothing can help reduce the risk of bites, but does not guarantee complete protection. Bed bugs are persistent and can exploit even small gaps, especially with lightweight fabrics.

For optimal protection, experts recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants made from thick materials, ensuring cuffs and hems are not loose. Tucking pants into socks and using bed bug-proof encasements for mattresses and pillows further reduces exposure.

How Long Can Bed Bugs Stay on Your Clothes?

Bed bugs may remain on your clothing for several hours and, in some cases, up to a full day, depending on environmental conditions and their access to hiding places [2] . They do not feed or breed on clothing, so their stay is typically temporary. However, if garments are moved from an infested area to a new location, even a single bed bug can initiate a new infestation.

Real-world case studies show that travelers who unknowingly bring bed bugs home on their clothing or in their luggage often face rapid and challenging infestations. The pest’s resilience and ability to hide make early detection and intervention critical.

Practical Steps to Prevent Bed Bugs from Traveling on Clothing

Preventing bed bugs from hitching a ride on your clothing requires a combination of vigilance, good habits, and effective sanitation methods. Here are actionable strategies to minimize your risk:

1. Inspect Your Environment

Before sitting or placing your belongings in a hotel room, public transit, or unfamiliar home, inspect the area for signs of bed bugs. Check seams of mattresses, upholstered furniture, and the corners of bedding. Look for small reddish-brown bugs, tiny white eggs, or dark stains. Use a flashlight for thorough checks.

2. Handle Clothing Properly

If you suspect exposure, immediately change your clothes and place worn garments in a sealed plastic bag. Transport them directly to a washing machine and launder with hot water, followed by high heat drying. This process is proven to kill all life stages of bed bugs [4] .

3. Manage Luggage and Travel Items

When traveling, keep your luggage off the floor and away from beds or upholstered furniture. Use designated luggage racks. Before returning home, inspect your bags and clothing. Consider quarantining suitcases in a garage or outside area and vacuuming them before bringing them inside [5] .

4. Use Protective Covers and Barriers

Encasing mattresses and box springs in bed bug-proof covers helps prevent infestations. These covers are available at most home goods retailers. Additionally, sealing cracks and crevices in walls and floors can eliminate hiding spots for bed bugs.

5. Maintain Cleanliness and Organization

Keep bedrooms and living areas clear of clutter, especially piles of clothing. Bed bugs thrive in environments where they can easily hide, so regular vacuuming and laundry are essential preventive measures.

Alternative Approaches and Additional Guidance

If you utilize shared laundry facilities, transport your clothes in sealed bags and remove them from the dryer immediately. Fold clothing at home to minimize exposure. Avoid purchasing secondhand furniture unless it has been carefully inspected and treated for bed bugs.

In the event of an infestation, professional pest control services offer the most reliable solutions. Reputable companies such as Orkin provide detailed preparation and treatment plans. If you cannot verify a pest control company’s credentials, search for reviews or contact your local health department for approved providers.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Dealing with bed bugs can be stressful and time-consuming. These pests are highly resilient and can survive for months without feeding, making eradication difficult. Challenges include missing hidden bugs during cleaning, incomplete laundering, and re-infestation from untreated items.

Solutions include:

Consistent, thorough cleaning and hot laundering of all potentially exposed items
Immediate containment and treatment of infested spaces
Seeking professional intervention if home remedies fail

Accessing Professional Help and Further Resources

If you need expert assistance, contact reputable pest control services such as Orkin or search for “bed bug extermination” through established providers in your area. Always verify company credentials and request detailed treatment plans. If you suspect a widespread problem, your local health department can provide guidance and recommend certified professionals.

For those traveling, consult hotel staff or travel websites for tips on inspecting rooms and luggage. Many travel blogs and pest control organizations offer comprehensive checklists for minimizing risks.

Key Takeaways

Bed bugs can and do travel on clothing you’re wearing, but only temporarily. Prevention is possible with vigilance, proper handling of garments, and prompt laundering. If exposed, act quickly to minimize risk and prevent the spread to your home or workplace. Professional help is available, and verified resources can guide you through effective solutions.

References

[1] Orkin (2025). Can Bed Bugs Live on Clothes?

[2] Positive Pest (2025). How Long Can Bed Bugs Travel on Clothes You’re Wearing?

[3] ZappBug (2024). Can Bed Bugs Bite Through Clothing?

[4] Healthline (2020). How Bed Bugs Spread, and How to Prevent It

[5] Orkin (2025). How to Protect Yourself from Bed Bugs when Traveling