What to apply to bedbugs? - briefly
Apply a licensed pyrethroid spray to all suspected harborages, then follow with a residual agent such as a neonicotinoid aerosol or desiccant dust (e.g., diatomaceous earth) to ensure complete control.
What to apply to bedbugs? - in detail
Effective control of bed‑bug infestations requires a combination of chemical and non‑chemical measures applied directly to the insects and their habitats.
Topical insecticides remain the primary option for immediate knock‑down. Products approved by regulatory agencies include:
- Pyrethroid‑based sprays (e.g., permethrin, deltamethrin). Effective against susceptible populations; resistance is common in many regions.
- Neonicotinoid formulations (e.g., imidacloprid). Provide rapid paralysis but may leave residual activity low.
- Insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as hydroprene or methoprene. Interrupt development, useful for long‑term suppression.
- Desiccant powders (diatomaceous earth, silica gel). Physical mode of action; particles abrade the cuticle, causing dehydration.
Non‑chemical treatments complement sprays:
- Heat treatment: raise ambient temperature to 50 °C (122 °F) for at least 90 minutes to achieve 100 % mortality.
- Steam application: direct steam at 100 °C to cracks, seams, and furniture surfaces; moisture must be limited to prevent mold.
- Cold exposure: maintain temperatures below –17 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of 4 days; feasible only in controlled environments.
Integrated approaches improve outcomes:
- Identify all harborages (mattresses, box springs, bed frames, baseboards).
- Apply a residual pyrethroid spray to exposed surfaces, following label directions for dosage and safety.
- Treat concealed areas with desiccant powder, ensuring even distribution.
- Deploy IGRs on voids and crevices to inhibit egg hatching.
- Conduct a heat or steam cycle on heavily infested items, monitoring temperature with calibrated devices.
- Repeat chemical applications after 7‑10 days to target survivors emerging from protected eggs.
Personal protection measures include washing bedding at ≥60 °C, vacuuming infested zones daily, and sealing cracks with caulk to limit re‑infestation.
Selection of specific products should consider local resistance patterns, occupancy status, and safety requirements for humans and pets. Always adhere to manufacturer instructions and regulatory guidelines when applying any treatment.