How can I get rid of bedbugs in a house using folk remedies at home? - briefly
Apply a combination of diatomaceous earth, high‑temperature laundering, and natural insect‑repellent oils such as tea tree, lavender, or peppermint, ensuring all infested seams, cracks, and upholstery are thoroughly treated and then vacuumed. Repeat the process weekly for several weeks to break the life cycle and prevent reinfestation.
How can I get rid of bedbugs in a house using folk remedies at home? - in detail
Bedbugs thrive in cracks, seams, and fabric folds, so a comprehensive approach must target both the insects and their hiding places. Begin by stripping the affected area of all bedding, curtains, and clothing. Wash each item in water hotter than 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 30 minutes; add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to increase lethality. Dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes, as heat above 115 °F (46 °C) kills all life stages.
Next, treat the environment with natural substances that repel or desiccate the pests. Create a spray by mixing equal parts distilled water and rubbing alcohol, adding a teaspoon of essential oil such as tea tree, lavender, or peppermint. Transfer the solution to a spray bottle and apply liberally to mattress seams, box‑spring edges, baseboard cracks, and upholstered furniture. Alcohol dissolves the insects’ outer coating, while the oils act as repellents.
For porous surfaces, sprinkle diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) around the perimeter of the bed, under furniture, and in any crevices. The microscopic silica particles abrade the exoskeleton, causing dehydration. Leave the powder undisturbed for 48 hours, then vacuum thoroughly, repeating the process weekly until no activity is observed.
To eradicate eggs hidden in fabric, use a steam cleaner set to at least 212 °F (100 °C). Move the nozzle slowly over mattresses, headboards, and sofa cushions; the combination of heat and moisture destroys both nymphs and eggs. Follow with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, emptying the canister into a sealed bag and discarding it outdoors.
Seal all entry points by applying caulk to gaps around baseboards, electrical outlets, and wall voids. This reduces re‑infestation potential and prevents the bugs from migrating between rooms. Regularly inspect seams and folds, repeating the alcohol‑oil spray and diatomaceous earth application every two weeks for a month, then monthly thereafter.
Finally, maintain a low‑humidity environment; bedbugs prefer humidity above 50 %. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep indoor humidity between 30–40 %. Consistent low moisture hampers their development and complements the folk treatments described.