Trying to avoid bed bugs? It may be time to redecorate. Here’s an extra step you can take, according to an article published in Global News, bed bugs are more attracted to red or black bedsheets. A new study says that they tend to be attracted to these colours and avoid yellow and green.
These tiny bloodsucking insects are quite the nuisance! It is possible for anyone to end up with these pests regardless of their income or household. The bugs can leave itchy red bites along your body and some people also experience skin infections or allergic reactions to these pests.
Researchers at the University of Florida wanted to study the colour preference for bed bug hiding spots during the day. They created little tents and placed the bugs into petri dishes giving them 10 minutes to choose a spot. The bugs were tested at different stages of life, both individually and in groups. Their studies showed that the bugs were drawn to red the most. Initially they thought it was because the colour is related to blood, which they are attracted to. However, after the study they concluded it was because the colour of bed bugs themselves are red, and they want to be with each other!
As this is a very preliminary study, and the first of its kind – take it with a grain of salt! There is more research to come, but it doesn’t hurt to switch your sheets. Make sure they are always clean and use a mattress cover for protection!
– Paolo Bossio
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