Are Bed Bugs Attracted To Fragrance

Are bed bugs attracted to fragrance? The answer is not a simple yes or no. Generally, bed bugs and other insects are attracted to certain odors and fragrances. However, they do not feed on these smells as their primary source of nutrition; instead, they use them as signals to communicate with one another. Additionally, some fragrances can be repellent for bed bugs, making them avoid certain areas or surfaces.

A 2017 study found that among insects like cockroaches and fleas, particular scents were attractive while others were unappealing. Interestingly, the study also noted that floral scents tended to repel bed bugs while more "pungent" odors such as citrus and peppermint had the opposite effect. This suggests that if you have a problem with bed bugs in your home, avoiding heavily perfumed fragrances may help discourage them from coming back.

There are products commercially available that use specific scents which claim to act as an effective insect repellent. However, there is no definitive proof yet whether these products work against bed bug infestations. If you suspect you have an issue with bed bugs in your home or on your mattress, replacing the entire mattress (not just the cover) is one of the most effective solutions for getting rid of them quickly and preventing re-infestation due to their resilient nature.