Bed bugs in an apartment: what to do at home quickly and effectively using folk remedies? - briefly
Spread diatomaceous earth mixed with a few drops of tea‑tree or lavender oil into cracks, seams, and mattress folds, then steam‑clean all upholstered surfaces and baseboards. Wash bedding and clothing in water above 60 °C, dry on high heat, and seal them in airtight bags for two weeks to interrupt the insects’ life cycle.
Bed bugs in an apartment: what to do at home quickly and effectively using folk remedies? - in detail
Infestations of bed‑bugs in a residential flat demand immediate, practical action. Chemical treatments are often effective but may be unavailable, costly, or undesirable for occupants with sensitivities. Traditional household methods can reduce populations quickly if applied correctly and consistently.
First, isolate the source. Examine mattress seams, box‑spring folds, headboard, and nearby furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting. Use a flashlight and magnifier; capture any specimens in a sealed container for identification. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat. Heat destroys eggs and nymphs that survive washing.
Second, apply non‑chemical deterrents:
- Steam – Direct steam (≥ 100 °C) onto seams, crevices, and hidden cracks for 10‑15 seconds each. The temperature penetrates deep enough to kill all life stages.
- Diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) – Sprinkle a thin layer around bed legs, baseboards, and behind furniture. The microscopic silica particles abrade the insects’ exoskeleton, causing dehydration. Reapply after vacuuming or cleaning.
- Essential‑oil sprays – Combine 10 ml of tea‑tree oil, 10 ml of lavender oil, and 1 liter of water. Add a few drops of dish‑soap as an emulsifier, shake well, and spray directly onto infested zones. Both oils have documented repellent properties; however, they do not eradicate eggs, so repeat every 2‑3 days.
- Alcohol – Apply 70 % isopropyl alcohol to visible bugs and their hiding places. Alcohol dissolves the waxy coating of the cuticle, leading to rapid mortality. Do not use on fabrics that may be damaged by alcohol.
- Vacuum – Use a HEPA‑filter vacuum to remove insects and debris from mattresses, upholstery, and carpet edges. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or canister in a plastic bag and discard.
Third, create an environment hostile to the pests. Reduce clutter that offers shelter, seal cracks in walls and floorboards with caulk, and install bed‑leg interceptors (tapered cups) to trap climbing insects. Maintain humidity below 50 % if possible; lower moisture levels impede egg development.
Finally, monitor progress. Place sticky traps under each leg of the bed and check them weekly. Continue the above measures for at least four weeks, as bed‑bugs can survive several weeks without feeding. If the population persists despite diligent folk‑remedy application, professional extermination should be considered to prevent further spread.