How Far Can Bed Bugs Detect Carbon Dioxide?

Carbon dioxide is a natural gas that bedbugs can detect. They are drawn to it because it is a source of heat, which gives them the clue that their next meal is near. According to the CDC, bedbugs will usually stay within eight feet of their human host while sleeping. However, they are capable of traveling up to 100 feet to catch a blood meal.

When bedbugs find a suitable place to live, they deposit aggregation pheromones. These can be found in crevices and seams of your mattress. The odor is so strong that it can even draw bedbugs from three feet away. The bedbugs will then start their violent mating process, which is triggered by the release of carbon dioxide.

While freezing your furniture is one way to get rid of bedbugs, it’s impractical for most people. Another effective method is to place an interceptor in the furniture to attract the bugs. This will work as long as it is left in place for a week. It is more effective than visual inspections and interviews with building occupants.

Bedbugs can survive for up to four months in cold climates without food. However, if they can’t find a food source, they will naturally die.