How to get rid of bedbugs in an apartment by yourself using folk remedies quickly?

Understanding the Enemy: Identifying Bed Bugs

Signs of an Infestation

Visual Evidence: Bugs and Eggs

Visual confirmation of bedbugs and their eggs is the first step in any self‑directed eradication effort. Adult insects appear as small, reddish‑brown ovals, 4–5 mm long, flattening after a blood meal. Look for live specimens on mattress seams, headboards, and behind baseboard cracks. Eggs are tiny, 0.5 mm, white or pale yellow, often clustered in hidden crevices, furniture joints, or under wallpaper. A reliable inspection routine includes:

Removing bedding and examining stitching for live bugs, shed skins, or fecal specks (dark‑brown dots).
Using a flashlight to scan mattress tags, box‑spring corners, and upholstered cushions.
Pressing a piece of clear tape onto suspected areas; lift to reveal trapped insects or eggs.
Inspecting wall outlets, picture frames, and electrical sockets where insects hide.

Documenting findings with a smartphone camera helps track infestation spread and evaluate the impact of folk remedies such as diatomaceous earth, essential‑oil sprays, or heat treatment. Photographs taken before treatment provide a baseline; repeat images after each application verify reduction in visible bugs and egg clusters. Consistent visual evidence guides timely adjustments, ensuring rapid and effective control without professional intervention.

Physical Symptoms: Bites and Rashes

Bedbug bites appear as small, red welts, often grouped in lines of three to five. The puncture points may be slightly raised and can develop a central puncture mark. Swelling and itching typically begin within a few hours and may persist for several days. In some cases, the skin reacts with a more extensive rash, spreading beyond the immediate bite area and resembling hives.

Key physical indicators include:

Localized redness: confined to the bite site, sometimes with a dark spot at the center.
Linear pattern: rows of bites following the path of a crawling insect.
Delayed swelling: increased size and tenderness after initial appearance.
Secondary infection: crusting, pus, or fever if the skin is broken and contaminated.

Distinguishing bedbug reactions from other arthropod bites relies on the arrangement and timing. Mosquito bites are usually isolated, while flea bites cluster around the ankles. The presence of a nightly increase in bite intensity suggests active infestation.

Immediate self‑care measures:

Clean the area with mild soap and water to reduce bacterial load.
Apply a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes to lessen swelling.
Use over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or oral antihistamine to control itching.
For mild rash, apply a diluted tea‑tree oil solution (5 % concentration) or a paste of baking soda and water; both possess anti‑inflammatory properties and can soothe irritation.

If symptoms intensify, persist beyond a week, or show signs of infection, seek medical attention. Prompt identification of bites and rash patterns guides the selection of effective folk remedies and informs the urgency of an eradication plan.

Preparing for Battle: Pre-Treatment Steps

Thorough Cleaning and Decluttering

Washing and Drying Linens

Washing and drying linens constitute a direct method to eliminate bedbugs that hide in fabrics. Hot water penetrates the fibers, killing insects at all life stages; a subsequent high‑temperature tumble prevents any survivors from re‑infesting the apartment.

Use the hottest setting the fabric label permits, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher.
Add a cup of white vinegar or a few drops of essential oil (e.g., tea tree) to the wash to increase lethality.
Run a full‑cycle rinse to flush out debris and eggs.
Transfer the laundry immediately to a dryer; select the highest heat option, at least 140 °F (60 °C), and dry for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Avoid folding or storing linens until the cycle ends; place them in sealed plastic bags if immediate use is not possible.

Repeated laundering every few days, combined with thorough drying, reduces the population dramatically and removes any newly deposited eggs, supporting rapid eradication without chemical pesticides.

Vacuuming and Steaming

Vacuuming and steaming are the most immediate DIY actions for removing bedbugs from a dwelling without chemicals.

A high‑efficiency vacuum with a HEPA filter should be run over mattress seams, box‑spring folds, bed frames, upholstered furniture, baseboards, and cracks in walls. Move the nozzle slowly, applying firm pressure to dislodge insects and eggs. After each pass, empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the building to prevent re‑infestation.

A steam cleaner capable of reaching at least 120 °C (248 °F) penetrates the protective wax coating of bedbugs, killing them on contact. Direct steam onto the same surfaces targeted for vacuuming, holding the nozzle for 20‑30 seconds per spot to ensure sufficient heat absorption. Pay special attention to hidden areas such as pillow crevices, carpet edges, and behind picture frames. Allow treated zones to dry completely before reuse.

Quick‑action checklist

Use a HEPA‑rated vacuum; vacuum all suspect areas thoroughly.
Seal and dispose of vacuum contents immediately after each session.
Employ a steam cleaner set to ≥120 °C; steam each surface for at least 20 seconds.
Cover furniture and bedding with a plastic sheet during steaming to retain heat.
Repeat vacuum‑steam cycle every 2‑3 days for two weeks to interrupt the life cycle.

Protecting Furniture and Belongings

Sealing Infested Items

Sealing infested belongings isolates bedbugs, prevents further spread, and creates a controlled environment where folk treatments can work undisturbed. Use airtight containers, heavy‑duty zip‑lock bags, or vacuum‑sealed pouches. Place each item inside, expel excess air, and close the seal tightly. Store sealed packages in a cool, dry place for at least two weeks; the insects cannot survive without a blood meal beyond this period.

Practical steps

Select containers with a proven leak‑proof rating (e.g., 0.5 mm gasket).
Clean items first to remove visible insects and debris.
Pack items loosely to avoid crushing delicate fabrics.
Remove as much air as possible before sealing; a hand pump or vacuum can improve efficacy.
Label each package with the date of sealing and a reminder to discard or treat after the isolation period.

If sealing large furniture, wrap the piece in a thick plastic sheet, secure edges with duct tape, and reinforce corners with additional tape. For mattresses, encase the entire surface with a zip‑over mattress cover rated to block insects.

Sealed items should remain untouched until the isolation time passes. Afterward, either launder washable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or expose non‑washable items to direct sunlight for several hours, as UV radiation further weakens any surviving bugs. This disciplined sealing process reduces the need for chemical interventions while accelerating the overall eradication effort.

Removing Potential Hiding Spots

Eliminate every place where bedbugs can conceal themselves before applying any folk treatment.

Remove all clutter from floors, under the bed, and behind furniture; boxes, piles of clothes, and magazines provide easy shelters.
Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable upholstery in water hotter than 60 °C, then dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Vacuum carpets, seams of mattresses, and cracks in walls or baseboards; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag immediately.
Seal gaps around windows, doors, and plumbing with caulk or expandable foam; close any cracks in floorboards, baseboards, and behind picture frames.
Disassemble bed frames and headboards; clean joints, screws, and any hidden compartments with a stiff brush and a solution of mild detergent and hot water.
Store items that cannot be cleaned in airtight containers; use zip‑lock bags or vacuum‑seal bags to deny bugs access to air and moisture.

By systematically removing these potential refuges, the environment becomes hostile to bedbugs, allowing subsequent folk remedies—such as diatomaceous earth or essential‑oil sprays—to work more efficiently and rapidly.

Folk Remedies: Natural Solutions for Bed Bug Eradication

Heat Treatments

Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is a practical, non‑chemical method for eliminating bedbugs in a rental unit. The high temperature of saturated steam (above 120 °C / 248 °F) destroys insects and their eggs on contact, reaching cracks, seams, and upholstery that sprays cannot penetrate.

To apply steam effectively:

Use a handheld steamer with a nozzle capable of delivering continuous steam for at least 15 seconds per area.
Pre‑heat the device according to the manufacturer’s instructions; ensure the water level is adequate for uninterrupted operation.
Target mattress edges, box‑spring seams, bed frames, headboards, and any fabric‑covered furniture. Move the nozzle slowly, maintaining direct contact to allow heat to permeate.
Treat baseboard gaps, behind picture frames, and under carpet edges. Hold the steam jet for 10–12 seconds on each spot; the heat must linger to ensure mortality.
After steaming, allow surfaces to dry completely. Vacuum the treated area to remove dead insects and shed skins.

Additional considerations:

Verify that the steamer produces consistent temperature; low‑heat models will not kill bedbugs.
Use a protective shield or cloth over delicate surfaces to prevent water damage while still allowing heat transfer.
Repeat the process after 5–7 days, as newly hatched bugs may emerge from surviving eggs.

By following these steps, a tenant can rapidly reduce a bedbug infestation without resorting to professional pest‑control services.

High Temperature Washing

High‑temperature washing eliminates bedbugs by exposing every life stage to temperatures that cause immediate mortality. Water at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher destroys eggs, nymphs, and adults, while the mechanical action of the wash removes residual debris.

To apply this method effectively:

Gather infested fabrics (bedding, clothing, curtains, removable upholstery covers).
Separate items that can tolerate high heat from those that cannot.
Pre‑treat heavily infested spots with a spray of hot water or a folk solution such as diluted vinegar, then place the items in the washing machine.

Set the machine to a cycle that reaches at least 60 °C, use a normal or heavy‑duty detergent, and select a long wash duration (30 minutes or more). The heat penetrates fibers, ensuring complete eradication.

After washing, transfer items to a dryer set to the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. If a dryer is unavailable, spread fabrics in direct sunlight for several hours; solar heat above 45 °C (113 °F) contributes additional lethality.

Combine high‑temperature washing with other traditional measures—vacuuming, steam treatment of non‑washable surfaces, and sealing cracks—to achieve rapid, comprehensive control of a bedbug infestation in an apartment.

Cold Treatments

Freezing Infested Items

Freezing is a proven, chemical‑free technique for eradicating bedbugs on clothing, bedding, books, and small household objects. Exposure to temperatures at or below ‑18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days kills all life stages, including eggs, nymphs, and adults.

To apply the method, place the infested items in airtight plastic bags, removing as much air as possible. Label each bag to avoid mixing treated and untreated belongings. Position the sealed bags in a freezer that reliably reaches the required temperature, ensuring they are not stacked in a way that blocks air circulation. Maintain the four‑day duration without interruption; a shorter interval risks survival of some specimens.

Verify freezer temperature with a calibrated thermometer before starting.
Arrange items so no bag touches the freezer walls directly; use a rack or shelf.
Keep the freezer door closed; opening it repeatedly prolongs exposure time.
After the freezing period, allow bags to thaw at room temperature before opening to prevent condensation on delicate materials.

The method is limited to items that fit inside a standard household freezer and can tolerate prolonged cold. Large furniture, mattresses, or heavily infested carpets require alternative approaches, such as professional heat treatment or steam. Freezing does not address hidden populations in wall voids or cracks; comprehensive control must combine this technique with other folk remedies, thorough cleaning, and regular inspection.

Inspect treated items after thawing by shaking them over a white surface; the absence of live insects confirms successful eradication. If any movement is observed, repeat the freezing cycle or consider additional measures.

Using Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine powder composed of fossilized algae. Its microscopic sharp edges damage the exoskeleton of bedbugs, causing dehydration and death without chemicals.

To apply DE effectively:

Purchase food‑grade DE; industrial grades contain harmful additives.
Vacuum all surfaces, including mattress seams, box springs, baseboards, and cracks.
Lightly dust DE on infested areas, focusing on crevices, under furniture, and along wall edges.
Leave the powder for 48–72 hours; bedbugs contacting it will die within a few days.
After the exposure period, vacuum thoroughly to remove dead insects and excess DE.
Repeat the cycle weekly for three weeks to target newly hatched bugs.

Safety precautions:

Wear a dust mask and gloves to avoid inhalation and skin irritation.
Keep DE away from pets and children; restrict access to treated rooms until vacuumed.
Store the product in a sealed container to prevent moisture absorption, which reduces effectiveness.

Monitoring results:

Use sticky traps or visual inspection after each treatment cycle.
If activity persists beyond three weeks, increase the amount of DE applied or combine with heat treatment for faster eradication.

Essential Oils and Herbal Repellents

Tea Tree Oil and Lavender Oil

Tea tree oil contains terpinen‑4‑ol, a compound proven to disrupt the nervous system of insects, including bedbugs. Lavender oil supplies linalool and linalyl acetate, which act as repellents and may interfere with the bugs’ ability to locate hosts.

To prepare an effective treatment, combine 20 ml of pure tea tree oil with 10 ml of lavender oil and dilute the mixture in 1 liter of distilled water. Add a few drops of mild liquid soap to emulsify the oils and ensure even distribution.

Apply the solution with a clean spray bottle, targeting cracks, crevices, baseboards, mattress seams, and upholstered furniture. Repeat spraying every 24 hours for three consecutive days, then inspect for live insects before a final application.

Safety measures:

Test a small, concealed area first to check for material discoloration.
Keep the solution away from open flames; both oils are flammable.
Ensure adequate ventilation during and after application.
Store the mixture in a sealed container, out of reach of children and pets.

Neem Oil and Clove Oil

Neem oil contains azadirachtin, a compound that interferes with the nervous system of bedbugs. Mix 2 % neem oil with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap to emulsify. Apply the solution to seams, mattress edges, and baseboards using a spray bottle. Allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes before wiping excess residue. Repeat the treatment every 48 hours until no live insects are observed.

Clove oil’s eugenol acts as a potent insecticide and repellent. Dilute 10 ml of clove essential oil in 1 liter of water, add 1 teaspoon of liquid soap, and shake well. Spray the mixture directly onto infested areas, focusing on cracks, crevices, and furniture joints. Maintain ventilation during application; clove oil may cause irritation if inhaled in high concentrations. Reapply every 24 hours for a week.

Practical tips
- Test each solution on a hidden fabric patch to check for discoloration.
- Use a disposable cloth or vacuum after each spray to remove dead bugs and eggs.
- Combine both oils in alternating treatments for synergistic effect, starting with neem oil on day 1 and clove oil on day 2.
- Keep pets and children away from treated surfaces until they dry completely.

Both oils are readily available in health stores and pose minimal risk when used according to the recommended dilutions. Consistent application, thorough coverage, and proper sanitation are essential for rapid elimination of bedbug populations without professional chemicals.

Other Natural Approaches

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a low‑cost, readily available agent that can contribute to the reduction of bedbug populations in a residential setting.

The powder absorbs moisture from the insect’s exoskeleton, causing dehydration and loss of mobility. When dispersed on surfaces where bedbugs hide, the fine particles interfere with their ability to climb and respire, leading to increased mortality.

Application procedure

Remove all bedding, curtains and clothing; place them in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat.
Vacuum mattresses, box springs, furniture frames and floor crevices thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
Sprinkle a thin, even layer of baking soda on mattress seams, headboard, nightstand surfaces, baseboards and any known harborages.
Leave the powder for 24 hours; during this period, keep the room closed to prevent disturbance.
After the exposure period, vacuum the treated areas again, ensuring all residue is removed.
Repeat the cycle every 3–4 days for two weeks, or until no live insects are observed.

Baking soda should be combined with other non‑chemical tactics—such as steam treatment, mattress encasements and regular laundering—to achieve rapid and sustained control. Avoid applying the powder to electronic devices or surfaces that may be damaged by abrasive particles. Proper ventilation reduces the risk of inhalation irritation for occupants.

Vinegar Solutions

Vinegar, particularly white distilled or apple cider varieties, is a readily available household acid that can disrupt bedbug activity when applied correctly. Its low pH interferes with the insects’ respiratory system and can dissolve the protective wax coating on their exoskeletons, leading to dehydration and death.

To create an effective solution, mix one part vinegar with one part water in a clean spray bottle. For stronger contact, use undiluted white vinegar; for broader coverage, the 50 % dilution reduces odor while retaining acidity. Add a few drops of peppermint or tea‑tree oil if a repellent scent is desired, but do not rely on fragrance alone for control.

Application steps:

Spray directly onto visible bedbugs, egg clusters, and infested seams of mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture.
Saturate cracks, crevices, and baseboard joints where insects hide; allow the liquid to soak for at least five minutes before wiping excess.
Re‑apply every 24 hours for a minimum of three days, focusing on areas where activity persists.
After each treatment, vacuum thoroughly and dispose of the bag to remove dead insects and residues.

Safety measures include wearing gloves and eye protection, ensuring adequate ventilation, and testing the solution on a small fabric area to prevent discoloration. Avoid using vinegar on delicate materials such as silk or leather without prior confirmation of compatibility.

Vinegar alone does not eradicate large infestations; it serves best as a supplemental tactic alongside heat treatment, thorough cleaning, and, when necessary, professional intervention. Consistent application can reduce population levels quickly, but persistent monitoring remains essential to confirm elimination.

Post-Treatment and Prevention: Maintaining a Bug-Free Home

Ongoing Monitoring and Inspection

Regular Checks for Reinfestation

After applying any homemade bed‑bug control method, systematic monitoring prevents a hidden resurgence.

Inspect all sleeping areas at least every three days for the first two weeks, then weekly for the next month. Focus on seams, folds, and mattress edges where insects hide. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to spot live bugs, shed skins, or dark fecal spots.

Record each inspection in a simple log: date, room, locations checked, findings, and any additional treatment applied. This documentation reveals patterns and guides timely interventions.

If any sign of activity appears, repeat the folk remedy immediately and increase inspection frequency to daily until the problem disappears.

Common indicators to watch for:

Small, reddish‑brown insects about 5 mm long.
Tiny white shells (exuviae) left after molting.
Dark specks resembling pepper (fecal stains).
Blood‑tinged spots on sheets or mattress fabric.

Maintain a clean environment to aid detection. Vacuum carpets, furniture, and cracks daily; empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard outside the building. Wash all bedding in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes after each inspection.

Regular checks, precise recording, and swift re‑application of folk treatments together create a rapid, self‑managed defense against bed‑bug return.

Using Bed Bug Monitors

Bed bug monitors provide visual confirmation of infestation levels and help locate hidden harborage areas without chemical intervention. Simple DIY versions can be assembled from common household items, allowing rapid assessment while maintaining a non‑toxic approach.

A practical monitor consists of a shallow container, a rough surface, and a sticky medium. Place the container beneath the legs of a bed, sofa, or dresser; line the bottom with a piece of corrugated cardboard or sandpaper to give insects a grip; coat the surface with a thin layer of natural adhesive such as a mixture of sugar, water, and a few drops of vegetable oil, or use a commercial non‑hazardous glue. Bed bugs seeking a refuge will climb onto the rough surface and become trapped, making it easy to count and track population changes.

Gather a shallow tray, cardboard, sandpaper, and a natural adhesive.
Cut the cardboard to fit the tray, then affix sandpaper on one side.
Apply a uniform coat of the adhesive, allowing it to dry until tacky.
Position the monitor under furniture legs, near seams, and in mattress crevices.
Check daily, recording captured insects; replace the adhesive layer every 3‑5 days.

Regular monitoring reveals hotspots, directs targeted folk remedies such as steam, diatomaceous earth, or essential‑oil sprays, and confirms when the infestation has been eliminated. The method requires minimal expense, avoids toxic chemicals, and accelerates the overall eradication process.

Preventive Measures

Sealing Cracks and Crevices

Sealing cracks and crevices removes the pathways bedbugs use to travel between walls, baseboards, and furniture. Apply a high‑quality silicone or acrylic caulk to all visible gaps around window frames, door thresholds, electrical outlets, and plumbing penetrations. Press the caulk firmly, smooth the surface, and allow it to cure for the manufacturer‑specified time before exposing the area to moisture.

Identify openings larger than 1 mm; use a flashlight and a thin probe to locate hidden seams.
Clean the surface with a mild detergent to ensure adhesion.
Use a caulking gun for precise application; excess material should be removed with a damp cloth before it sets.
For larger gaps, insert backer rod before caulking to fill depth and prevent shrinkage.

After sealing, vacuum the treated zones to capture any displaced insects. Repeat the inspection weekly for at least four weeks, as newly hatched nymphs may emerge from concealed eggs. Consistent sealing, combined with other folk measures such as diatomaceous earth dusting and heat exposure, creates an environment where bedbugs cannot establish colonies, accelerating eradication in the apartment.

Protecting Your Home During Travel

When you leave an apartment for a trip, the risk of transporting bedbugs increases. Secure the living space before departure to prevent insects from hitchhiking on luggage or clothing.

Seal all cracks, gaps around baseboards, windows, and doors with caulk or weather‑stripping. This eliminates hiding places and reduces the chance that bugs will escape or enter while you are away.
Apply a thin layer of diatomaceous earth to floor edges, under furniture, and around the perimeter of the room. The powder is harmless to humans but desiccates insects that attempt to cross it.
Place sachets of dried lavender, peppermint, or tea tree oil in drawers, closets, and under the mattress. The strong scent deters bedbugs and other pests without chemicals.
Remove all linens, curtains, and removable upholstery covers. Wash them at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, then dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills any hidden insects and eggs.
Pack clothing in airtight plastic bags or vacuum‑sealed pouches. Include a small bag of silica gel packets to absorb moisture, which discourages bug survival.
Store suitcase interiors with a thin coating of neem oil or a spray of diluted vinegar. Both act as natural repellents and leave no residue that could damage fabrics.
Before returning, inspect luggage on a hard surface, shaking out all contents. Use a handheld vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove any stray insects that may have arrived.
Upon re‑entry, immediately launder all travel clothing and unpacked items at high temperature, then vacuum the floor, carpet, and upholstery thoroughly. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outside the building.

By implementing these measures, you create a barrier that minimizes the likelihood of bedbugs entering your apartment during periods of absence, allowing you to travel without compromising home hygiene.