How to kill bedbug eggs? - briefly
Apply high heat—steam above 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 20 minutes or a dryer on high heat for 30 minutes—to destroy eggs on fabrics and surfaces. Use a residual insecticide approved for egg control or seal mattresses and box springs in certified bed‑bug‑proof encasements.
How to kill bedbug eggs? - in detail
Eliminating bed‑bug ova requires a combination of physical, chemical, and preventive measures. Each method targets the protective coating of the eggs, which is more resistant than the adult insects.
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Heat treatment: Raise ambient temperature to at least 50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes. Portable heaters, professional steam machines, or hot‑air dryers can achieve this level. Verify temperature with a calibrated thermometer placed on the infested surface. Heat penetrates fabrics, cracks, and furniture, destroying embryos.
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Steam application: Use a commercial steamer delivering steam at 100 °C (212 °F) and a pressure of 1 bar. Direct the nozzle onto seams, mattress tags, and crevices for 10‑15 seconds per spot. Steam vapor reaches hidden layers, rupturing the egg shell.
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Cold exposure: Freeze items at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least 4 days. Place infested clothing, linens, or small objects in a freezer or a specialized cryogenic chamber. Sustained sub‑zero temperatures halt embryonic development and cause mortality.
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Chemical insecticides: Apply products labeled for egg control, such as silica‑based dusts, pyrethroid‑resistant formulations, or neonicotinoid sprays. Follow manufacturer dosage and safety instructions. Dust should be applied to voids, baseboards, and mattress edges; spray should coat surfaces without oversaturation, allowing the active ingredient to contact the egg shell.
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Vacuum extraction: Use a high‑efficiency vacuum with a HEPA filter. Thoroughly vacuum seams, folds, and cracks. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or canister in a plastic bag and discard it to prevent re‑infestation.
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Encasement: Install certified bed‑bug mattress and box‑spring covers that are zippered and impermeable. Encasements trap any remaining eggs, preventing hatching and forcing adults to starve.
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Integrated approach: Combine heat or cold treatment with chemical residuals and encasements. Conduct repeated inspections every 7‑10 days for at least three weeks, as eggs may hatch after the initial treatment cycle.
Proper personal protective equipment—gloves, goggles, and respirators—is required when handling chemicals or hot steam. Documentation of each step ensures accountability and facilitates follow‑up actions.