Bed bugs are a common household nuisance. A frequent question is whether these resilient pests can drown, exploring if water could be an effective solution for infestations.
Bed Bug Physiology and Water Interaction
Bed bugs possess a hardened outer shell, an exoskeleton, which provides some resistance to water. This waxy layer helps repel moisture and prevents rapid dehydration. Like many insects, bed bugs breathe through a system of tubes called tracheae, which connect to the outside via small openings called spiracles.
These spiracles are located along their sides. Their ability to open and close allows bed bugs to regulate gas exchange, taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. This also minimizes water loss and allows them to temporarily shut off their breathing when exposed to water.
The Mechanics of Bed Bug Drowning
While bed bugs can survive exposure to water for a period, they can eventually drown if fully submerged. They extend their survival time underwater by closing their spiracles. Their low metabolic rate also means they require less oxygen to sustain bodily functions.
The duration they can survive submerged varies depending on conditions like water temperature and whether they are truly immersed or merely floating. Adult bed bugs can survive in water for a few days. In cold water (10–15°C), they might survive up to 24 hours by conserving energy. Bed bug eggs can also survive submersion for up to 24 hours. However, if they float on the surface, they may survive for several days with access to air.
Water as a Bed Bug Control Method
Despite their eventual susceptibility to drowning, water alone is not a practical or effective method for controlling a bed bug infestation. Their ability to hide in inaccessible locations is a primary limitation. These pests commonly conceal themselves in tiny cracks, crevices, within furniture, and deep inside mattresses, making it nearly impossible to reach every individual with water.
Hot water and detergents can kill bed bugs and their eggs on direct contact, particularly when laundering infested items. This approach is limited to washable materials. Water temperatures above 120°F (49°C) are effective, especially when combined with detergents that disrupt their ability to trap air. However, this method does not address bed bugs hiding in non-washable areas, meaning water is not a standalone solution for complete eradication.