Can Bed Bugs Get Through Zippers?
WouterOne of the most common questions consumers ask is whether bed bugs can get through zippers. The answer depends on the type of zipper you have. Some zippers are designed to be tightly sealed and have small teeth that prevent immature bugs from weaving through. Others may not have a sealed zipper but will still let bedbugs through.
A closed zipper will help minimize the chances of bedbugs entering your suitcase. However, the zippers on a zippered hard-shell suitcase are not impenetrable to bedbugs. Most of them are made from aluminum and have small gaps between the teeth. If you are worried that the zippers in your suitcase are open, consider buying a zipperless suitcase.
One way to prevent bedbugs from getting into your bed is to keep your mattress encased. Most mattress encasements contain fabric that prevent them from entering your bed. In addition to providing a safe place to hide and breed, encased mattresses can be a great place to keep these pests at bay.
When using a plastic mattress encasement, make sure the zippers are completely closed. Plastic is also not conducive to bedbugs. In addition to being impenetrable to bugs, a plastic mattress cover will also trap them and starve them to death.
