What folk remedy can be used to poison bedbugs in a couch at home? - briefly
«Diatomaceous earth» applied to the couch cushions and left for several days desiccates and kills bedbugs. A spray of diluted «tea tree oil» or «lavender oil» can provide additional rapid toxicity.
What folk remedy can be used to poison bedbugs in a couch at home? - in detail
A traditional approach for eradicating bedbugs from a sofa relies on naturally toxic substances that insects cannot tolerate. The method combines diatomaceous earth, essential oils, and heat treatment to achieve lethal exposure while preserving upholstery.
Diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) consists of microscopic silica particles that abrade the exoskeleton of arthropods, causing desiccation. Application requires a thin, even layer over all fabric surfaces, seams, and crevices. After sprinkling, the powder should remain undisturbed for 48–72 hours, allowing insects to contact the material during their nocturnal activity. Vacuuming the residue eliminates dead insects and excess dust.
Essential oils such as tea tree, lavender, and peppermint possess repellent and toxic properties. A mixture can be prepared by diluting 10 ml of each oil in 500 ml of water with a few drops of liquid soap to emulsify. The solution is sprayed lightly onto the couch, focusing on folds, cushions, and hidden joints. Reapplication every 24 hours for three days maintains potency against newly hatched nymphs.
Heat exposure complements the chemical agents. Bedbugs cannot survive temperatures above 45 °C (113 °F) for extended periods. Using a portable heating lamp or a hair‑dryer set to high, direct warm air onto the sofa for 30 minutes, ensuring the surface temperature reaches the lethal threshold. A thermometer placed on the fabric confirms adequate heat.
Precautions include wearing a dust mask when handling diatomaceous earth, testing the oil solution on an inconspicuous area to avoid discoloration, and monitoring indoor humidity, as excessive moisture reduces the effectiveness of silica particles. After treatment, thorough cleaning—vacuuming and laundering removable covers at 60 °C—removes residual insects and prevents reinfestation.
Overall, the combination of silica dust, insecticidal essential oils, and controlled heat provides an effective, low‑cost remedy for bedbug elimination in household seating.