How can I get rid of bed bugs using folk remedies in a bed? - briefly
Apply high‑temperature steam (above 120 °F) directly to the mattress, then coat seams and fabric with diatomaceous earth or a diluted mixture of tea‑tree and lavender essential oils, allowing it to dry. Repeat the process weekly and vacuum the area after each treatment to eliminate remaining bugs.
How can I get rid of bed bugs using folk remedies in a bed? - in detail
Eliminating bed‑bug infestations from a mattress using traditional, non‑chemical methods requires a systematic approach.
First, isolate the sleeping surface. Remove all bedding, wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on the highest heat setting.
Second, treat the mattress and box spring. Apply one of the following natural agents, allowing sufficient contact time before vacuuming:
- Diatomaceous earth (food grade). Lightly dust the entire surface, including seams and tufts. Leave for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. The microscopic silica particles abrade the insects’ exoskeletons, causing dehydration.
- Essential oil spray. Mix 20 drops of tea tree oil, 15 drops of lavender oil, and 10 drops of peppermint oil with 250 ml of water and a few drops of liquid soap. Fill a spray bottle, mist the mattress evenly, and let dry. The oils act as repellents and disrupt the bugs’ nervous system.
- Baking soda and salt blend. Combine equal parts baking soda and coarse salt, sprinkle over the mattress, and leave for 12 hours. The mixture desiccates the insects. Vacuum the residue afterward.
Third, address cracks and crevices in the bed frame. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or the salt‑baking‑soda mix into joints, then brush out after the exposure period.
Fourth, maintain an environment hostile to the pests. Reduce humidity below 50 % by using a dehumidifier, and keep the bedroom temperature between 18–22 °C, which discourages reproduction.
Fifth, conduct regular inspections. Use a flashlight to examine mattress edges, headboard, and box spring seams weekly. If live insects are observed, repeat the treatment cycle.
Finally, prevent re‑infestation by encasing the mattress and box spring in zippered, allergen‑proof covers rated for bed‑bug protection. Ensure the covers are sealed and left on for at least one year, as eggs hatch within 2–3 weeks.
By following these steps, a homeowner can rely on readily available, low‑cost remedies to suppress and eventually eradicate bed‑bug populations from a sleeping surface without resorting to chemical pesticides.