Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. These common household pests can quickly establish themselves in living spaces, often going unnoticed during their initial stages. Understanding how bed bugs move and what surfaces they can navigate is important for managing their presence.
How Bed Bugs Climb
Bed bugs possess physical characteristics that enable them to climb various surfaces. They have six legs, each equipped with tiny claws or hooks, known as tarsal claws, which allow them to grip onto rough or uneven textures. Additionally, microscopic hairs or bristles on their bodies can provide extra traction as they move. Their ability to ascend depends significantly on the surface’s texture and porosity.
Surfaces with many irregularities, like wood, fabric, or walls, offer numerous grip points for their claws, making them easy to climb. In contrast, very smooth, non-porous surfaces present a challenge because the bed bugs’ claws cannot find purchase. Bed bugs cannot fly or jump, relying solely on crawling to navigate their environment and reach a host. This reliance on physical grip highlights why surface characteristics are so important to their movement.
Bed Bugs and Plastic Surfaces
Whether bed bugs can climb plastic depends on its finish. Smooth, polished plastic surfaces are generally very difficult, and often impossible, for bed bugs to climb. This is because these surfaces lack the microscopic irregularities necessary for their claws and bristles to gain adequate grip. Examples include slick plastic bed encasements or the smooth inner walls of specialized traps.
Conversely, bed bugs can often climb plastic surfaces that are rough, textured, or have imperfections. This includes plastics with a matte finish, those that have been scratched or scuffed, or even crumbled plastic bags. The presence of dust or debris on an otherwise smooth plastic surface can also provide enough traction for bed bugs to ascend. The key factor determining a bed bug’s climbing ability on plastic is the degree of smoothness, as it directly impacts their capacity for physical adhesion.
Using Plastic in Bed Bug Control
The understanding that bed bugs struggle with smooth plastic surfaces offers practical applications in managing infestations. Smooth plastic bed bug encasements for mattresses and box springs can be used to either trap existing bed bugs inside or prevent new ones from infesting the bedding. These encasements must be made of bite-proof material and feature tight, small-toothed zippers to prevent any escape or entry. This creates a physical barrier that isolates the sleeping area.
Plastic interceptor dishes, placed under bed legs, are another application. These devices are typically designed with a rough outer surface, allowing bed bugs to climb in, but a smooth, slick inner well that prevents them from climbing out once trapped. Some models suggest adding talcum powder to the inner surface to enhance its slipperiness. Using smooth, hard plastic containers for storing items can also deter bed bugs from infesting contents. While effective as barriers, these plastic solutions are most impactful when integrated into a comprehensive bed bug management plan.