Will bedbugs die in a washing machine?

Understanding Bed Bug Vulnerabilities

Temperature Sensitivity of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs cannot survive temperatures that exceed their physiological limits. Research shows that exposure to heat above 45 °C (113 °F) for several minutes results in rapid mortality, while lower temperatures require longer contact. In a typical household wash, water temperatures range from 30 °C to 95 °C, depending on the selected cycle. The following points summarize the thermal thresholds relevant to laundering:

≥ 60 °C (140 °F): Immediate death within 5 minutes; most wash cycles maintain this temperature for at least 10 minutes.
50 °C – 60 °C (122 °F – 140 °F): Complete mortality after 30 minutes; standard hot‑wash programs exceed this duration.
40 °C – 50 °C (104 °F – 122 °F): Partial mortality; extended cycles (≥ 30 minutes) increase effectiveness but may leave survivors.
≤ 30 °C (86 °F): Insufficient to kill; insects may remain viable after washing.

Drying further enhances lethality. Air‑dry or tumble‑dry at 70 °C (158 °F) for 20 minutes eliminates any remaining individuals. Combining high‑temperature wash with a hot‑dry cycle provides a reliable method to eradicate bed bugs from clothing and linens.

Water Immersion Effects on Bed Bugs

Water immersion is lethal to bed bugs when exposure combines sufficient temperature, duration, and detergent action. Direct contact with water forces the insects to lose the thin, waxy cuticle that prevents desiccation, leading to rapid dehydration and internal damage.

Key variables influencing mortality:

Temperature: Hot water (≥ 50 °C / 122 °F) destroys proteins and disrupts nervous function within minutes. Warm water (40‑49 °C) requires longer exposure, typically 10‑15 minutes, to achieve comparable lethality.
Duration: Continuous soaking for at least 5 minutes at ≥ 50 °C ensures near‑complete kill rates. Shorter cycles may allow survival, especially if water temperature falls below the thermal threshold.
Detergent presence: Surfactants lower surface tension, increase cuticle penetration, and accelerate osmotic imbalance. Even mild laundry soap improves outcomes, while bleach or enzymatic cleaners add chemical toxicity.
Mechanical agitation: Rotational motion disrupts the insects’ ability to cling to fabric fibers, enhancing water ingress and preventing escape.

Empirical studies report > 95 % mortality under standard machine cycles that use hot water, a full wash, and a spin phase. Cooler cycles (cold water, short wash) produce survival rates above 50 %, indicating that temperature and exposure time are decisive factors.

Practical recommendation: select the hottest permissible setting for the fabrics, add a standard detergent, and run a complete wash followed by a high‑speed spin. This protocol maximizes water immersion effects, resulting in near‑total eradication of bed bugs present on the laundry.

The Washing Cycle and Bed Bug Eradication

Hot Water Washing Effectiveness

Hot water cycles are among the most reliable washing‑machine methods for eradicating bedbugs. Temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F) cause rapid protein denaturation in insects, leading to mortality within minutes. Scientific assessments show that a 30‑minute wash at this temperature eliminates over 99 % of all life stages, including eggs, when water fully surrounds the items.

Effectiveness depends on consistent heat delivery. Laundry loads must allow water to reach the target temperature throughout; overloading reduces heat penetration and can leave survivors. Detergent does not increase thermal lethality, but it aids in removing protective debris that might insulate insects.

Following the wash, high‑temperature drying enhances results. Air‑drying at ambient temperature permits rehydration and possible resurgence, whereas tumble‑drying at 70 °C (158 °F) for 20 minutes ensures complete desiccation and prevents re‑infestation.

Best practices for hot‑water laundering:

Verify machine settings display ≥ 60 °C before starting.
Use a full but not overloaded load to guarantee uniform heating.
Extend wash time to a minimum of 30 minutes for thorough exposure.
Immediately transfer washed items to a dryer set at ≥ 70 °C for at least 20 minutes.
Seal cleaned fabrics in airtight containers until drying is complete to avoid re‑contamination.

Cold Water Washing Limitations

Cold‑water cycles do not reach temperatures required to kill bedbugs. Research shows that mortality rates rise sharply above 45 °C (113 °F); at 30 °C (86 °F) most insects survive the wash and can re‑infest after drying.

Limitations of washing with cold water include:

Insufficient thermal exposure: temperatures stay below the lethal threshold for the entire cycle.
Reduced detergent activation: many surfactants work less efficiently at low temperatures, limiting their ability to penetrate the insect’s exoskeleton.
Short dwell time: standard cycles last 30–45 minutes, providing inadequate exposure even if some heat is generated.
Post‑wash survival: bedbugs can recover if the water temperature never exceeds the critical point, allowing them to resume feeding once garments are removed.

To achieve reliable eradication, combine temperatures of at least 50 °C (122 °F) with a high‑speed spin and a subsequent dryer cycle exceeding 70 °C (158 °F). Cold cycles should be reserved for items that cannot tolerate heat, acknowledging that they will not control bedbug populations.

Detergent's Role in Bed Bug Removal

Detergent enhances the lethality of a washing cycle against bed bugs by disrupting the insects’ protective wax layer, facilitating moisture penetration, and assisting in the removal of organic residues that can shelter survivors. When combined with water temperatures of at least 50 °C (122 °F), the chemical action of surfactants weakens cuticle integrity, making thermal stress more effective.

Key factors influencing detergent performance:

Surfactant type – anionic and non‑ionic surfactants penetrate the exoskeleton more efficiently than mild, biodegradable formulas.
Concentration – a dosage of 1–2 % by volume ensures sufficient surface tension reduction without excessive foaming that could impair machine agitation.
Cycle duration – extended wash times (30 minutes or longer) increase exposure, allowing detergent to act throughout the rinse and spin phases.
Rinse temperature – hot water during the final rinse sustains the thermal effect, while cold rinses may allow recovery of damaged bugs.

Detergent alone does not guarantee complete eradication; mechanical agitation can dislodge some insects, but low‑temperature cycles often leave viable individuals. The most reliable protocol pairs a high‑temperature wash with an appropriate detergent concentration, followed by a hot dryer cycle (≥ 70 °C/158 °F) for at least 30 minutes to ensure residual bugs are killed.

In practice, treating infested linens with a strong detergent, hot water, and thorough drying provides a practical, chemical‑assisted method for reducing bed‑bug populations within a washing machine environment.

The Drying Cycle: A Crucial Step

High Heat Drying for Bed Bug Elimination

Bed bugs cannot survive exposure to temperatures above 120 °F (49 °C) for a sustained period. When laundry is subjected to a wash cycle that reaches only warm or cold settings, many insects and eggs remain viable; the mechanical action of the drum does not provide sufficient lethal heat.

High‑heat drying is the critical control step. A dryer set to its highest setting typically reaches 135–150 °F (57–65 °C). At these temperatures, adult bed bugs, nymphs, and eggs are killed within 30 minutes. Extending the cycle to 45 minutes adds a safety margin for items that retain moisture longer or have dense fabrics that insulate heat.

Practical application:

Wash infested linens on the hottest cycle the fabric allows; use at least 130 °F (54 °C) if the material tolerates it.
Transfer immediately to a dryer; avoid letting items sit at room temperature, which could allow survivors to recover.
Run the dryer on the “high heat” or “sanitize” setting for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Verify that the dryer’s internal temperature reaches at least 135 °F (57 °C) with a thermometer if the appliance lacks a built‑in readout.

Following these steps ensures that the combination of washing and high‑heat drying eliminates bed bugs from clothing and bedding, preventing re‑infestation.

Duration and Temperature Requirements for Drying

Drying at sufficiently high heat is the most reliable method for eradicating bedbugs after a wash cycle. The insects cannot survive prolonged exposure to temperatures above their thermal tolerance threshold, and the drying stage provides the necessary heat for lethal effect.

Temperature ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) – Minimum exposure of 30 minutes eliminates all life stages.
Temperature ≥ 140 °F (60 °C) – Exposure of 10 minutes is sufficient for complete mortality.
Temperature ≥ 150 °F (65 °C) – Exposure of 5 minutes guarantees eradication.

These values apply to both conventional tumble dryers and dryer cycles on washing machines equipped with a heated drying function. Settings that deliver lower temperatures (below 120 °F / 49 °C) require significantly longer periods, often exceeding practical cycle lengths, and do not assure full elimination.

When selecting a cycle, choose the “high heat” or “sanitize” option, confirm that the dryer reaches at least 130 °F, and allow the machine to complete the full timed cycle without interruption. Verify the temperature through the appliance’s display or a calibrated thermometer if the model does not provide explicit readings.

Properly timed high‑heat drying, combined with a preceding wash at ≥120 °F (49 °C), provides a definitive protocol for killing bedbugs in household laundry equipment.

Lint Trap as a Bed Bug Indicator

Observations confirm that the lint trap of a washing machine can reveal a hidden infestation. Bed bugs shed exoskeletons, eggs, and fecal particles that accumulate in the filter during a wash cycle. When the trap is examined after a hot‑water run, the presence of these remnants signals that insects survived the process or were introduced afterward.

Key indicators to inspect in the lint trap:

Tiny, translucent shells (exuviae) resembling shed skins.
Oval, dark specks measuring 1–5 mm, consistent with bed‑bug eggs.
Fine, reddish‑brown dust resembling fecal stains.

Detection of any of these elements warrants immediate action. Confirm the finding by:

Removing the trap and placing its contents on a white surface.
Using a magnifying lens to differentiate bed‑bug parts from textile fibers.
Conducting a visual survey of the surrounding laundry area for additional signs.

If the trap yields no biological material, the washing machine’s high temperature and agitation are likely effective at killing the insects. However, a clean trap does not guarantee eradication; bed bugs may hide in seals, hoses, or clothing folds inaccessible to the drum. Regular inspection of the lint trap after each hot‑water cycle provides a reliable, low‑effort method for monitoring infestation status and assessing the efficacy of laundering as a control measure.

Items Suitable and Unsuitable for Machine Washing

Washable Items for Bed Bug Treatment

Bed bugs exposed to hot water and vigorous agitation are typically eradicated. Temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F) sustained for a minimum of 10 minutes achieve lethal conditions for all life stages. A standard washing cycle that reaches this heat, followed by a high‑heat dryer setting, provides reliable control.

Items that can safely undergo this process include:

Bedding: sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, mattress protectors, blankets.
Clothing: pajamas, shirts, socks, undergarments, jackets that are machine‑washable.
Soft furnishings: pillow shams, cushion covers, removable slipcovers.
Small textiles: curtains, washable rugs, pet bedding, towels.
Non‑fabric objects with removable covers: stuffed toys (after removing any non‑washable components), fabric‑wrapped luggage.

For each category, follow manufacturer instructions regarding maximum water temperature and cycle length. If the label limits washing to lower temperatures, treat the item with a commercial insecticide or seal it in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least four days before laundering.

After washing, place items in a dryer on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. The combination of hot water, mechanical action, and drying eliminates eggs, nymphs, and adults, preventing re‑infestation from these sources.

Non-Washable Items Requiring Alternative Methods

Bedbugs succumb to temperatures above 120 °F (49 °C) when exposed for at least 30 minutes, a condition commonly achieved in a domestic washing cycle. However, many infested objects cannot be laundered. Effective alternatives are required for those items.

Mattresses and box springs – Apply professional-grade steam generators delivering 200 °F (93 °C) vapor for 10–15 minutes per surface. Follow with a certified encasement that traps any survivors and prevents re‑infestation.
Upholstered chairs and sofas – Use portable heat chambers that raise internal fabric temperature to 135 °F (57 °C) for 90 minutes. For delicate fabrics, consider cryogenic treatment: place items in a freezer at –20 °F (–29 °C) for a minimum of four days.
Electronic devices – Disassemble components when possible and expose circuit boards to controlled heat in a laboratory oven set to 140 °F (60 °C) for 30 minutes. If disassembly is impractical, employ targeted insecticide aerosols approved for electronics, ensuring ventilation and compliance with safety data sheets.
Books, papers, and documents – Enclose items in sealed bags and store in a commercial freezer at –30 °F (–34 °C) for at least 72 hours. Alternatively, expose to a specialized low‑temperature chamber that maintains –10 °F (–23 °C) for 48 hours.
Clothing items labeled “dry‑clean only” – Submit to professional dry‑cleaning services that use solvents reaching temperatures sufficient to kill bedbugs, or request a heat‑based cleaning cycle if the facility offers it.

When heat or cold methods are unavailable, apply residual insecticide sprays formulated for indoor use, covering all seams, folds, and crevices. Ensure products are EPA‑registered for bedbug control and follow label instructions regarding dosage and re‑application intervals.

Combining these techniques with regular inspection and vacuuming of surrounding areas maximizes eradication success for items that cannot be processed in a washing machine.

Post-Treatment Precautions

Preventing Reinfestation After Washing

Bedbugs that survive a wash can reappear if post‑laundry handling is lax. Immediate steps after cleaning reduce the risk of a new outbreak.

Keep washed items sealed in a plastic bag or airtight container until they are moved to a dry, heated environment.
Transfer clothing to a dryer set on high heat (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) for at least 30 minutes; heat kills any remaining insects and eggs.
For items that cannot be tumble‑dried, place them in a sealed bag and expose them to direct sunlight for several hours, ensuring the temperature reaches at least 115 °F (46 °C).
Vacuum the mattress, bed frame, and surrounding furniture thoroughly after laundry, using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Inspect seams, folds, and pockets of all garments before storing them; remove any visible insects or debris.
Store clean clothing in zip‑lock bags or garment bags with a zip closure; avoid open closets or drawers until the area has been treated or confirmed free of infestation.

Regular monitoring complements these actions. Check sleeping areas daily for signs of activity, such as small dark spots or shed skins. Prompt detection allows targeted treatment before a minor problem escalates.

Monitoring for Remaining Bed Bugs

After laundering infested fabrics, confirming the absence of live insects is essential. Direct observation under bright light reveals surviving adults, nymphs, or eggs that may have withstood the cycle. Inspection should focus on seams, folds, and pockets where heat penetration is limited.

Effective verification includes:

Removing garments from the drum while still warm, then shaking them over a white surface to expose any hidden specimens.
Using a magnifying lens (10× or higher) to examine fabric fibers and stitching.
Placing washed items in a sealed container for 48 hours; any emerging insects indicate incomplete eradication.
Employing a portable infrared thermometer to measure internal fabric temperature during the wash; temperatures below 50 °C (122 °F) suggest insufficient lethality.

If any bed bugs are detected, repeat the wash with a higher temperature setting (≥ 60 °C/140 °F) and extend the cycle to ensure thorough heating. For persistent infestations, supplement laundering with a dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes, as the combined thermal exposure maximizes mortality. Continuous monitoring after each treatment prevents re‑infestation and validates the effectiveness of the washing process.

Complementary Bed Bug Treatment Methods

Washing machines can reduce bed‑bug populations, but complete eradication typically requires additional measures.

High‑temperature dryer cycles (≥130 °F / 54 °C) for at least 30 minutes destroy all life stages on clothing and linens.
Steam cleaners delivering 212 °F (100 °C) vapor penetrate seams, cracks, and upholstery where insects hide.
Vacuuming with a HEPA‑rated filter removes live bugs and eggs from mattresses, furniture, and floor crevices; dispose of the bag immediately in a sealed container.
Diatomaceous earth applied thinly to baseboards, under furniture, and in wall voids abrades the exoskeleton of crawling insects, leading to dehydration.
Insecticide sprays labeled for bed‑bug control—particularly those containing pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or desiccant agents—should be applied to cracks, crevices, and bed frames following label instructions.
Mattress and box‑spring encasements with zippered closures prevent re‑infestation and trap any residual insects inside.
Interceptor cups placed under bed legs capture climbing bugs and provide monitoring data.
Professional heat treatment (room‑wide temperatures of 120–135 °F for several hours) eliminates hidden populations in walls, flooring, and structural voids.
Fumigation with sulfuryl fluoride or other approved gases reaches inaccessible spaces; certification and ventilation are required after treatment.
Carbon‑dioxide chambers induce dormancy, making insects more susceptible to subsequent insecticide exposure.

Combining at least two of these methods with regular laundering maximizes mortality rates and reduces the likelihood of resurgence. Continuous monitoring and prompt re‑application of treatments are essential for lasting control.