At what temperature should clothes be washed to get rid of bed bugs?

Understanding Bed Bugs and Their Vulnerabilities

The Life Cycle of Bed Bugs

Eggs

Bed bug eggs are more resistant to heat than adult insects, requiring higher temperatures to ensure complete eradication during laundering. Research indicates that water temperatures of at least 120 °F (49 °C) must be maintained for a minimum of 30 minutes to achieve reliable mortality of all developmental stages, including eggs. Temperatures below this threshold leave a significant proportion of eggs viable, allowing re‑infestation after the wash cycle.

Key parameters for effective laundering:

Water temperature: 120 °F (49 °C) or higher; 130 °F (54 °C) provides a safety margin.
Exposure time: Minimum 30 minutes; longer cycles improve reliability.
Drying: High‑heat dryer setting (≥130 °F / 54 °C) for at least 20 minutes adds an extra kill step, especially for items that cannot withstand hot water.

Materials that cannot be washed at these temperatures should be treated with alternative methods, such as professional heat‑treatment services or encasements, to prevent egg survival. Consistent application of the specified temperature and duration eliminates the egg stage, breaking the life cycle and reducing the risk of persistent infestation.

Nymphs

Nymphal bed bugs are immature stages that lack the hard exoskeleton of adults, making them more susceptible to thermal stress. Laboratory data show that exposure to water at 55 °C (131 °F) for at least five minutes achieves 100 % mortality for all nymphal instars. Commercial laundering cycles typically provide longer exposure times; therefore, a wash temperature of 60 °C (140 °F) or higher is considered reliable for eliminating nymphs in fabrics.

Key points for effective laundering:

Set the machine to a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F).
Use a standard detergent to aid in heat transfer and disrupt the insect cuticle.
Maintain the wash cycle for at least 30 minutes to ensure uniform temperature throughout the load.
Follow with a dryer cycle at 70 °C (158 °F) for a minimum of 20 minutes; heat‑drying complements washing by targeting any survivors.

Temperatures below 45 °C (113 °F) do not guarantee nymph mortality and may allow re‑infestation. Cold‑water washes, even with bleach, are ineffective because nymphs can survive brief exposures to sub‑lethal heat. For items that cannot withstand high temperatures, steam cleaning at 100 °C (212 °F) for five minutes offers an alternative method to achieve comparable results.

In practice, adhering to the 60 °C (140 °F) threshold for both washing and drying provides a robust protocol for eradicating nymphal bed bugs from clothing and linens.

Adults

Adult bed bugs can survive temperatures up to about 115 °F (46 °C) for short periods, but prolonged exposure above 120 °F (49 °C) is lethal. Their exoskeleton provides limited protection against heat, and moisture from laundering further compromises their survival.

To ensure complete eradication during laundering, the water temperature should reach at least 130 °F (54 °C). This temperature achieves the following:

Rapid denaturation of proteins in all life stages, including mature insects.
Immediate disruption of the cuticle, preventing rehydration.
Effective removal of eggs that may be attached to fabric fibers.

If the washing machine cannot attain 130 °F, an alternative is to use a dryer on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes after washing, as dry‑heat exposure above 135 °F (57 °C) also guarantees mortality of adult specimens.

How Temperature Affects Bed Bugs

Lethal Temperatures

Washing garments at temperatures that exceed the thermal tolerance of bed‑bug life stages ensures eradication. Scientific studies indicate that exposure to hot water above 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of five minutes kills all stages, including eggs. Below this threshold, survival rates increase sharply, rendering the wash ineffective.

Key temperature guidelines:

≥ 120 °F (49 °C) – Lethal to adults, nymphs, and eggs with 5 min exposure.
≥ 130 °F (54 °C) – Guarantees mortality within 1 min; recommended when rapid processing is needed.
≤ 90 °F (32 °C) – Insufficient; bed bugs remain viable even after extended cycles.

Drying complements washing. A dryer set to high heat (≥ 135 °F / 57 °C) for 30 min eliminates any residual insects. For items that cannot withstand high temperatures, sealed‑bag freezing at –4 °F (‑20 °C) for at least four days provides an alternative lethal method.

When laundering, verify that the machine’s thermostat reaches the target temperature, and avoid mixing low‑temperature loads with contaminated fabrics. Consistent application of these temperature standards removes bed‑bug infestations from clothing and textiles.

Survival Thresholds

Bed bugs cannot survive prolonged exposure to temperatures above their physiological limits. Laboratory data indicate that a water temperature of 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of ten minutes achieves complete mortality across all life stages. Lower temperatures require extended contact time; for example, 55 °C (131 °F) must be sustained for at least 30 minutes, while 50 °C (122 °F) demands exposure of one hour or more.

The thermal tolerance of eggs is slightly higher than that of nymphs and adults, but the same temperature thresholds apply when the exposure duration is sufficient. A brief dip below lethal levels may only incapacitate insects without guaranteeing eradication, allowing survivors to repopulate after the wash cycle ends.

Practical guidelines for laundering contaminated fabrics:

Set washing machines to a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F).
Ensure the cycle includes at least ten minutes of continuous heating.
Use a high‑efficiency dryer on a similar temperature for 20–30 minutes to confirm residual heat reaches the fabric interior.

Temperatures below 45 °C (113 °F) do not reliably kill bed bugs and should be avoided when the objective is complete elimination.

Washing and Drying for Bed Bug Eradication

Pre-Treatment Considerations

Sorting Laundry

Effective eradication of bed‑bug infestations depends on proper laundry handling before the wash cycle. Sorting garments separates items that can withstand high temperatures from those that cannot, preventing damage while ensuring that all contaminated fabrics receive lethal heat.

Separate whites and light colors from darks to avoid color bleeding during a hot wash.
Group items by fabric durability: cotton, linen, and polyester blends can tolerate temperatures of 49 °C (120 °F) or higher; delicate silk, wool, or synthetics should be washed at the maximum safe heat for the material and supplemented with an additional dryer cycle.
Identify heavily infested pieces (e.g., mattress covers, pillowcases) and place them in a dedicated load to guarantee consistent exposure to the required temperature.
Isolate items with visible stains or bodily fluids, as these may shield insects; pre‑treat before washing.

After sorting, set the machine to the highest temperature that the fabric group permits, preferably not less than 49 °C (120 °F). This temperature destroys all life stages of bed bugs within minutes. Follow the wash with a dryer cycle of at least 65 °C (150 °F) for 30 minutes; heat from the dryer compensates for any temperature shortfall in the wash. For fabrics that cannot endure such heat, seal them in a plastic bag and expose them to a professional heat‑treatment service or an overnight freeze at –18 °C (0 °F) before laundering at the maximum safe temperature.

Consistent sorting and adherence to temperature thresholds eliminate the risk of surviving insects and prevent re‑infestation through cross‑contamination in subsequent laundry cycles.

Bagging Infested Items

When bed‑bug infestation is suspected, isolating contaminated garments prevents insects from spreading to untreated laundry. Place each item in a sealable polyethylene bag, expel excess air, and close the zip tightly. This barrier allows the bag to be transferred directly to the washing machine without exposing other clothes.

To ensure the insects are destroyed, wash the bagged items in water that reaches at least 49 °C (120 °F). Use a regular or heavy‑duty cycle, then dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. The combination of hot water and high‑temperature drying kills all life stages of the pest.

Key steps for bagging infested clothing:

Inspect and separate affected items.
Insert each piece into a sturdy, zip‑top plastic bag.
Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
Load the sealed bags into the washing machine.
Select a cycle with water temperature ≥49 °C (120 °F).
Follow with a high‑heat dryer cycle of at least 30 minutes.

After washing, keep the bags sealed until the laundry is completely cooled, then store the cleaned garments in a clean, dry area. This protocol eliminates bed bugs while containing the infestation during the laundering process.

Items Unsuitable for Washing

When attempting to eradicate bed bugs through laundering, not every object can be safely processed in a washing machine at the recommended heat level. Items that cannot withstand high temperatures or water exposure risk damage and may retain viable insects, undermining control efforts.

Electronic devices – smartphones, tablets, watches, and other battery‑powered equipment. Water and heat cause irreversible failure; alternative treatments such as enclosure in a freezer or professional heat chambers are required.
Delicate fabrics – silk, lace, wool, and cashmere. These materials shrink, deform, or lose structural integrity at temperatures above 30 °C (86 °F). Dry‑cleaning or low‑temperature steam may be the only viable options.
Leather and suede goods – jackets, shoes, handbags, and upholstery. Moisture penetrates the leather, leading to stiffening, cracking, or mold growth; professional cleaning or chemical treatment is preferred.
Footwear with glued components – sneakers with adhesive soles, boots with foam inserts, and sandals. Heat can melt adhesives, causing separation and permanent damage; freezing or targeted pesticide application is advisable.
Large upholstered items – sofas, mattresses, and cushions that exceed the capacity of standard washers. Even if removable covers exist, the core material cannot be immersed; specialized steam or heat‑treatment equipment is necessary.
Items with embedded electronics – alarm clocks, electric blankets, and heated car seats. Exposure to water and high heat destroys circuitry; localized heat chambers or professional pest‑control services are recommended.

For objects that cannot be laundered, alternative strategies—such as encasement, freezing, professional heat treatment, or targeted pesticide application—must be employed to ensure complete eradication of bed bugs.

Washing Cycle Parameters

Recommended Water Temperature

The most reliable temperature for eliminating bed‑bug eggs and adults in laundry is at least 49 °C (120 °F). Water below this threshold fails to achieve consistent mortality across all life stages.

49 °C (120 °F) – minimum effective temperature; kills >95 % of eggs and nymphs, most adults.
54 °C (130 °F) – optimal temperature; achieves >99 % mortality, shortens exposure time.
60 °C (140 °F) – maximum recommended for heat‑sensitive fabrics; provides rapid eradication, but may cause shrinkage or damage.

If garments cannot withstand these temperatures, combine a warm wash (≥38 °C/100 °F) with a high‑heat dryer cycle of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for 30 minutes. For non‑dryer‑able items, apply professional heat treatment or freeze at –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days as an alternative.

Duration of Wash Cycle

Effective elimination of bed‑bug infestations through laundering depends not only on water temperature but also on the length of the wash cycle. The insects and their eggs are killed only after sustained exposure to heat; a brief hot rinse does not guarantee mortality.

Recommended wash‑cycle durations at temperatures proven to be lethal are:

60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes.
55 °C (131 °F) for at least 45 minutes.
50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of 60 minutes, provided the cycle includes a high‑speed spin that maintains heat throughout the fabric.

Longer cycles increase the likelihood that any hidden eggs will absorb sufficient heat to become non‑viable. When using a standard domestic washing machine, select the “heavy‑duty” or “sanitary” program, which typically sustains the target temperature for the times listed above. If the machine offers a “extra‑rinse” or “extended wash” option, activate it to ensure continuous exposure.

For items that cannot withstand high temperatures, combine a lower‑temperature wash with a subsequent dryer cycle at 70 °C (158 °F) for 30 minutes; the combined heat exposure achieves comparable results.

Detergent Use

Washing garments at a minimum of 49 °C (120 °F) for at least 30 minutes reliably kills all life stages of bed‑bug insects. Detergent selection and application enhance this thermal effect and prevent re‑infestation from residual oils or debris.

Effective detergent use includes:

Choosing a high‑efficacy, enzyme‑based powder or liquid that fully dissolves at the target temperature. Enzymes break down proteinaceous residues that can shelter insects.
Adding the recommended dosage based on load size; under‑dosing reduces surfactant concentration and compromises insect mortality.
Using a booster such as a non‑ionic surfactant or a small amount of bleach (up to 1 % sodium hypochlorite) when fabrics permit, to increase membrane disruption in surviving bugs.
Ensuring thorough agitation; mechanical action exposes hidden crevices and improves detergent penetration.

For delicate items that cannot endure 49 °C, pre‑treat with a concentrated insecticidal detergent solution, then dry on high heat (≥ 60 °C) for 30 minutes. This combination compensates for lower washing temperatures by delivering chemical lethality and thermal desiccation.

Overall, the synergy of correct temperature, proper detergent concentration, and sufficient mechanical action constitutes the most reliable protocol for eliminating bed‑bug infestations from clothing.

Drying Cycle Parameters

Recommended Dryer Temperature

Dryer heat is a reliable method for eradicating bed‑bug infestations in clothing and linens. Scientific studies show that exposure to temperatures of at least 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes kills all life stages of the insect. Most household dryers reach this temperature on high‑heat settings, but verification with a thermometer ensures consistency.

Recommended dryer parameters:

Set the dryer to the highest heat cycle (often labeled “high” or “sanitize”).
Maintain a temperature of 120 °F (49 °C) or higher throughout the cycle.
Run the dryer for at least 30 minutes; extending to 60 minutes provides an additional safety margin.
Use a timer or appliance that records cycle length to avoid premature termination.

Additional considerations:

Separate heavily infested items from those with minimal exposure to prevent cross‑contamination.
Dry small loads to allow adequate airflow and uniform heating.
After drying, store items in sealed bags until the entire household treatment is completed.

Adhering to these temperature and time specifications eliminates bed bugs from washable fabrics without compromising textile integrity.

Duration of Drying Cycle

Effective removal of bed‑bug infestations from laundry depends on both washing temperature and the subsequent drying cycle. High‑heat drying is essential because temperatures below 45 °C (113 °F) do not guarantee mortality of all life stages. A dryer set to at least 60 °C (140 °F) will kill eggs, nymphs, and adults within a short period.

The duration of the drying phase determines whether the heat penetrates the fabric fully. Insufficient time leaves protected pockets where bugs can survive. Empirical studies show that a continuous exposure of 30 minutes at the target temperature eliminates the infestation in most household textiles.

Recommended drying parameters:

Dryer temperature: ≥ 60 °C (140 °F)
Minimum cycle length: 30 minutes
Extended cycle (45 minutes) for thick or layered items such as towels, bedding, and denim
Verify that the dryer’s thermostat reaches the set temperature throughout the load; use a thermometer if uncertainty remains

Adhering to these specifications ensures that the combined wash‑dry process eradicates bed bugs from clothing and linens.

Importance of High Heat

High temperatures are the most reliable method for eliminating bed‑bug infestations in laundry. Heat denatures proteins and disrupts cellular membranes, causing rapid mortality for adults, nymphs, and eggs.

120 °F (49 °C) sustained for 30 minutes kills >95 % of individuals.
130 °F (54 °C) sustained for 10 minutes achieves >99 % mortality.
140 °F (60 °C) sustained for 5 minutes results in near‑complete eradication.

The water temperature during the wash cycle must reach the target level, and the heat must be maintained for the specified duration. Fabric thickness influences heat transfer; dense materials may require longer exposure or supplemental drying.

After washing, a dryer set to high heat (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 30 minutes guarantees that residual insects and eggs are destroyed. Combining hot water with a high‑heat drying phase provides a double barrier, reducing the risk of surviving specimens re‑infesting the environment.

Entomological research confirms that temperatures above 120 °F are lethal to all developmental stages of Cimex lectularius. Consequently, any laundering protocol aimed at bed‑bug control should incorporate these heat thresholds and exposure times to ensure complete disinfestation.

Post-Treatment and Prevention

Handling Cleaned Items

Immediate Storage

Washing infested garments at a temperature of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes reliably kills all life stages of bed bugs. After the cycle ends, immediate handling of the laundry determines whether the eradication effort remains effective.

Place the clean items directly into airtight, resealable plastic bags before removing them from the dryer. Seal each bag, expel excess air, and label with the date of treatment. Store the sealed bags in a location that is free from moisture and temperature fluctuations; a climate‑controlled closet or a dedicated storage cabinet works best.

Additional precautions enhance protection:

Keep bags away from walls or floors where cracks may harbor insects.
Avoid opening the containers until the storage area has been inspected and confirmed free of bed bug activity.
Use a secondary barrier, such as a vacuum‑sealed container, for high‑risk items like bedding or clothing that will be used shortly after treatment.
Periodically inspect stored garments for signs of re‑infestation, such as small dark spots or shed exoskeletons.

By sealing washed clothing immediately and maintaining it in a stable, protected environment, the risk of re‑contamination is minimized, ensuring the wash temperature’s lethal effect is preserved.

Preventing Re-infestation

Washing clothing at a temperature of at least 120 °F (49 °C) kills all life stages of bed bugs. After the wash, the greatest risk of a new outbreak comes from items that were not treated, from cross‑contamination during handling, and from the environment where the laundry is stored.

To block re‑infestation, follow these steps:

Immediately place cleaned fabrics in sealed plastic bags or airtight containers until they can be returned to a clean area.
Dry the items on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes; the heat eliminates any surviving eggs that may have been missed during washing.
Vacuum the laundry area, paying special attention to seams, folds, and corners of the dryer and washing machine. Dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the canister outside the home.
Inspect and, if necessary, treat surrounding furniture, bedding, and floor coverings with a certified residual insecticide or steam at 200 °F (93 °C).
Seal or discard any clothing that shows signs of damage, as cracks can harbor insects.
Rotate and monitor stored garments for several weeks, looking for live bugs or shed skins.

Consistent application of these measures eliminates hidden survivors and prevents the population from rebuilding after a single successful wash.

Complementary Eradication Methods

Vacuuming

Vacuuming removes bed‑bug eggs, nymphs, and adults from fabrics, furniture, and floor coverings before laundering. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to prevent insects from escaping back into the environment. Operate the machine on the highest suction setting and pass the hose slowly over seams, creases, and upholstery folds; repeat the process at least three times per area.

After vacuuming, place the extracted debris in a sealed bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container. Immediately launder the affected garments and linens at a temperature that kills bed‑bug stages—typically 120 °F (49 °C) or higher. Combining thorough vacuuming with high‑temperature washing maximizes eradication and reduces the risk of re‑infestation.

Steaming

Steaming eliminates bed‑bug stages by exposing them to temperatures that exceed their thermal tolerance. Professional steamers reach 120 °F (49 °C) and higher; sustained exposure to 130 °F (54 °C) for at least five minutes guarantees mortality for eggs, nymphs, and adults.

The method works on fabrics that cannot be laundered at high temperatures. Direct contact with the steam jet penetrates seams and folds, delivering heat to hidden insects. Effectiveness depends on:

Steam temperature of 130 °F (54 °C) or above
Continuous application for a minimum of five minutes per area
Overlapping passes to avoid cold spots

Portable handheld units provide the required temperature, but their output may vary. Verify the gauge before use and maintain a steady hand to keep the nozzle within one inch of the material. For thick garments, steam both sides and allow the item to cool before handling to prevent re‑infestation.

Steaming complements washing: items that can tolerate hot water should be laundered at 120 °F (49 °C) or higher, while delicate pieces are best treated with steam. Combining both approaches maximizes eradication without damaging fabrics.

Professional Pest Control

Professional pest control relies on proven methods to eradicate infestations. Thermal elimination of insects within fabrics is a standard component of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Research and field data indicate that a wash temperature of at least 49 °C (120 °F) kills bed‑bug eggs and nymphs. Higher temperatures increase mortality rates and reduce exposure time required for complete eradication.

49 °C (120 °F) – minimum effective temperature; hold for a minimum of 30 minutes.
54 °C (130 °F) – optimal balance of speed and energy use; 20 minutes sufficient.
60 °C (140 °F) – rapid kill; 10 minutes achieves full mortality.

Following washing, a high‑heat dryer cycle of 65 °C (149 °F) for 10 minutes provides an additional safety margin, destroying any survivors that may have persisted.

Professional technicians verify that laundering at these temperatures, combined with thorough drying, eliminates the majority of viable stages. For persistent infestations, they integrate chemical treatments, vacuuming, and encasements to address hidden populations and prevent re‑infestation.