Can Bed Bugs Come Back After 3 Years

Did you know that bed bugs have an impressive survival rate? They can go up to three months without feeding, which is why they're so difficult to get rid of. But what about after several years? Can bed bugs come back after all this time? The short answer is yes, and here's why.

Bed bugs are notorious for hiding in nooks and crannies, making them hard to detect and eliminate. Even if you think you've eliminated them all, there could still be some hiding out of sight. It takes multiple treatments to eradicate bed bug infestations completely.

If you've experienced a bed bug infestation in the past and haven't seen any signs of them for a while, they could still return. Bed bugs can survive for months without feeding, and hitchhiking on clothing or luggage makes their return a likely possibility. If you frequently travel or share walls with neighbors, your chances of another infestation are higher.

Cleaning your space isn't enough to prevent bed bug infestations. While keeping your living area tidy helps spot signs of bed bugs, like shed skin or blood stains on bedding, it won't necessarily keep them away.

Replacing your mattress could prevent another bed bug problem. Bed bugs often hide within mattresses and box springs; replacing these items will remove any remaining pests missed during treatment. However, not everyone can replace their mattress.

In summary, bed bugs can come back after three years; however, taking regular preventative measures such as inspecting your home for signs of an infestation and vigilance when traveling or moving into a new residence could help reduce the risk of hosting an unwelcome guest.