Entry pointsModerate risk
How Do Bed Bugs Spread?
Quick answer
Bed bugs spread by hitchhiking in luggage, clothing, bags and second-hand furniture, and by walking between rooms and apartments through wall voids and gaps. Hotels, hostels, share houses, aged-care facilities and public transport are common places to pick them up. They do not fly or jump, and infestations are not caused by poor hygiene.
Why this happens
Bed bugs hide in seams and crevices during the day, so they are easily carried in bags placed on beds or floors.
In multi-unit buildings, bed bugs can travel along pipes and wiring between units, particularly after treatment disturbs them.
What you can do
- When travelling, inspect the bed and keep luggage on a rack, away from the bed.
- Unpack straight into the washing machine after travel and hot-dry clothes.
- Inspect second-hand beds and couches closely before bringing them home.
- In apartments, report suspected bed bugs to the building manager promptly.
When professional help may be needed
If you find signs of bed bugs, early professional treatment reduces spread through your home and building.
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