What can be used at home to kill bedbugs? - briefly
Effective home solutions include high‑temperature steam or laundering items at 120 °F (49 °C) or higher, EPA‑registered insecticide sprays or powders (e.g., pyrethroids), food‑grade diatomaceous earth applied to cracks and crevices, and sealing the mattress and box spring in a zippered encasement.
What can be used at home to kill bedbugs? - in detail
Effective home treatments for eradicating bedbugs combine chemical agents, physical methods, and preventive measures.
A common over‑the‑counter insecticide containing pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, deltamethrin) can be sprayed directly onto mattresses, box springs, and crevices. Apply according to label directions, allow the product to dry, and repeat after seven days to target newly hatched insects.
Silica‑based powders, such as diatomaceous earth, work by desiccating the insects. Dust a thin layer on seams, under furniture, and in cracks. Reapply after cleaning or when the powder becomes damp.
Heat treatment is reliable when temperatures reach 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 90 minutes. Use a portable steamer on upholstery, curtains, and bedding; steam penetrates fabric and kills all life stages. A clothes dryer set to high heat can sanitize infested linens after a 30‑minute cycle.
Cold exposure destroys bedbugs when items are sealed in plastic bags and frozen at 0 °F (‑18 °C) for a minimum of four days. This method suits small objects such as shoes, toys, and electronics.
For sealed environments, place traps containing a pheromone lure and a sticky surface. Traps monitor activity and reduce population density but do not replace insecticide or heat.
Preventive steps include:
- Vacuuming floors, mattress seams, and furniture daily; discard the vacuum bag immediately.
- Enclosing mattresses and box springs in zippered encasements rated for bedbug protection.
- Reducing clutter to eliminate hiding places.
- Washing all fabrics in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) and drying on high heat.
When using chemical products, wear gloves, protective eyewear, and ensure adequate ventilation. Store all pesticides out of reach of children and pets. If infestation persists after multiple attempts, professional extermination may become necessary.