Bed bugs are one of the most persistent and psychologically unsettling pests people encounter. Yet, despite their long history, misinformation about bed bugs continues to circulate. These misconceptions not only cause unnecessary fear but also delay effective treatment and contribute to prolonged infestations.
At E&G Exterminators, we have years of hands-on experience dealing with bed bug problems across residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces. One of the most important parts of eradicating an infestation is understanding what bed bugs actually are and what they aren’t. This article clears up the most common bed bug myths, where these beliefs likely came from, and what the truth really is.
Myth 1: Bed Bugs Only Infest Dirty Homes
The Myth:
It’s often believed that bed bugs are drawn to filth or unsanitary environments. This belief is rooted in the outdated assumption that insects prefer dirty areas, much like cockroaches or flies.
The Truth:
Bed bugs are not attracted to grime, they are attracted to people. They feed exclusively on blood and are drawn to body heat and carbon dioxide. A five-star hotel can have bed bugs just as easily as a cluttered apartment. What clutter does, however, is give bed bugs more places to hide, which can make it harder to detect or eliminate them. But cleanliness alone has no bearing on whether bed bugs will be present.
Fact:
Studies confirm that bed bugs can thrive in clean, well-maintained spaces, especially where there’s frequent human activity. Infestations have been reported in hospitals, office buildings, and even public transportation.
Myth 2: Bed Bugs Are Too Small to See
The Myth:
Because infestations often go unnoticed until someone starts getting bites, many assume bed bugs must be invisible to the human eye.
The Truth:
Bed bugs are small, but not microscopic. Adult bed bugs are approximately the size of an apple seed (about 4–7mm long). They are flat, oval-shaped, and reddish-brown in color. They’re easiest to spot after feeding, as they swell and darken. Their eggs and nymphs are smaller and paler, but still visible with careful inspection.
Fact:
Regular inspections around bed frames, mattress seams, and furniture joints can often reveal visible signs of an infestation: live bugs, molted skins, or small rust-colored stains from droppings or crushed bugs. In some cases, people confuse these signs with those of other pests, so it’s helpful to understand the difference between fleas and bed bugs before taking action.
Myth 3: Bed Bugs Only Bite at Night
The Myth:
Because people usually wake up with bites after sleeping, it’s commonly believed that bed bugs are strictly nocturnal.
The Truth:
While bed bugs are generally more active at night when humans are still and accessible, they will feed at any time they’re hungry and have a nearby host. In offices, theaters, or even during air travel, bed bug bites can happen during the day.
Fact:
Bed bugs are opportunistic feeders. Their circadian rhythm adjusts to their environment. If you work night shifts and sleep during the day, they’ll adapt their feeding schedule accordingly.
Myth 4: Bed Bugs Can Fly or Jump
The Myth:
The speed at which bed bugs spread sometimes causes people to think they fly or jump from place to place.
The Truth:
Bed bugs do not have wings and cannot jump. They move by crawling, often hitching rides in luggage, clothing, backpacks, furniture, or bedding. Once introduced into a building, they can crawl between units through electrical outlets, baseboards, or small cracks in the wall.
Fact:
Their flat body structure makes them highly mobile in tight spaces, which explains how they can infest multiple areas in a short time, without flying or jumping.
Myth 5: Bed Bugs Transmit Diseases
The Myth:
Because many blood-feeding insects (like ticks or mosquitoes) can transmit serious diseases, people worry that bed bugs may do the same.
The Truth:
Despite their unpleasant bites, bed bugs are not known to transmit any infectious diseases to humans. Their bites can lead to redness, itching, and in some cases, allergic reactions. However, there’s no scientific evidence linking them to the spread of disease.
Fact:
The greater concern with bed bugs is the psychological toll they can take. Studies show that infestations can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and even stress-related disorders in some individuals.
Myth 6: DIY Methods Are Enough to Eliminate Bed Bugs
The Myth:
Because hardware stores carry bed bug sprays and powders, many assume that treating an infestation is a simple do-it-yourself project.
The Truth:
Bed bugs are incredibly resilient. They can hide in extremely tight crevices, survive months without feeding, and are resistant to many over-the-counter insecticides. DIY treatments often address only surface-level issues and rarely eliminate all life stages, especially the eggs.
Fact:
According to entomologists and pest control experts, effective bed bug treatment often requires a combination of methods: heat treatment, residual insecticides, vacuuming, and follow-up inspections. At E&G Exterminators, we use a strategic Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach, which eliminates current infestations while preventing future outbreaks. If you’re unsure where to start, it’s wise to choose the right service based on your property type and infestation level.
Final Thoughts: Trust Facts Over Fear
Bed bugs are a highly misunderstood pest, and unfortunately, misinformation often leads to delayed treatment, ineffective DIY methods, and unnecessary stress. By understanding the truth behind these bed bug myths, property owners can respond more efficiently and protect their homes, families, and guests.
If you suspect bed bugs, don’t rely on internet rumors or one-size-fits-all solutions. Let experienced professionals assess the situation and provide a customized treatment plan.
Contact E&G Exterminators today for expert bed bug inspection and control services. With over 30 years of experience, we know what it takes to get the job done right—because the only thing worse than bed bugs is believing the myths that let them thrive.
