What to poison laundry bedbugs with? - briefly
Add a pyrethroid‑based laundry detergent or a small amount of a certified insecticide such as permethrin or bifenthrin to the wash cycle; hot water and the chemical action will eradicate the bedbugs.
What to poison laundry bedbugs with? - in detail
Effective agents for treating bedbugs in washed clothing include:
- Silicone‑based insecticides: Permethrin or deltamethrin formulations dissolve in water, remain active after the wash cycle, and target the nervous system of the insects. Use concentrations recommended by the manufacturer, typically 0.5 ml per liter of water.
- Heat treatment: Raising the wash temperature to at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes kills all life stages. Combine with a high‑efficiency dryer set to the same temperature for an additional 20 minutes.
- Alcohol‑based sprays: Isopropyl alcohol (70 % concentration) applied to garments after drying penetrates the exoskeleton and causes rapid desiccation. Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely before storage.
- Insecticidal laundry additives: Commercial products containing pyrethroids or neonicotinoids are designed for use in washing machines. Follow package directions precisely; overdosing can damage fabrics and pose health risks.
- Boric acid powder: Dissolve 1–2 g per load; the compound adheres to fabric fibers and interferes with the insect’s metabolic processes. Rinse thoroughly to prevent residue buildup.
Safety considerations:
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling concentrated chemicals.
- Ensure proper ventilation; avoid inhalation of aerosolized insecticide.
- Confirm that the chosen agent is compatible with the fabric type; delicate textiles may require lower‑temperature methods.
- Store all chemicals out of reach of children and pets.
Post‑treatment verification: