How long can bed bugs live without a host?

I've heard bed bugs can survive for a long time without feeding — is that true? And if so, how long can bed bugs live without a host?

Bed bugs can indeed survive for a long time without a meal, which is one of the things that makes them so difficult to deal with. In a typical home with “normal” temperature and moisture conditions, adult bed bugs can survive about two to three months without feeding. In cooler conditions, they may last even longer because their metabolism slows down.

So do bed bugs hibernate? Not exactly. They don't enter true hibernation, but they do slow down significantly in cold conditions. Think of it less like hibernation and more like a period of inactivity.

How long can bed bugs stay dormant?

In cooler, undisturbed environments, they can remain inactive for months, which is why assuming an empty room is a safe room can be a costly mistake. An infestation doesn't disappear just because there's no one sleeping there. Even when things seem quiet, it’s worth getting a bed bug professional to have a look.