How long should laundry be boiled to kill bed bugs? - briefly
Boiling infested linens for a minimum of 10 minutes at a full, rolling boil (212 °F / 100 °C) destroys eggs, nymphs, and adults. Shorter times may leave some organisms viable.
How long should laundry be boiled to kill bed bugs? - in detail
Boiling water reaches 100 °C (212 °F) at sea level, a temperature that kills all stages of bed‑bug insects within seconds. To ensure complete eradication, immerse the contaminated fabrics in a rolling boil for at least 10 minutes. This exposure time allows heat to penetrate dense fibers and reach the interior of items such as blankets, towels, and heavy clothing.
Key steps for the process:
- Fill a large pot or kettle with enough water to fully submerge the laundry.
- Bring the water to a vigorous boil; maintain the rolling boil throughout the treatment.
- Add the items, ensuring they are not overcrowded; stir briefly to eliminate air pockets.
- Keep the boil active for a minimum of 10 minutes; extend to 15 minutes for thicker or multi‑layered textiles.
- Remove the items with heat‑resistant gloves, place them in a clean dryer, and run a high‑heat cycle for at least 30 minutes to dry completely.
Additional considerations:
- Altitude reduces the boiling point; at 2,000 m (6,562 ft) the temperature drops to roughly 93 °C (199 °F). Increase the boiling duration by 5 minutes for each 500 m above sea level.
- Delicate fabrics that cannot withstand high temperatures should be sealed in a plastic bag and placed in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least 4 days as an alternative.
- After treatment, inspect seams, folds, and pockets for any remaining insects; repeat the procedure if any are observed.
- Use a thermometer to verify water temperature if the heat source is uncertain; maintain the target temperature throughout the cycle.
By following these precise guidelines, laundry can be effectively sterilized, eliminating bed‑bug infestations without resorting to chemical pesticides.