What to use to kill bedbugs in a house? - briefly
Apply a registered pyrethroid spray or silicon dioxide dust to cracks, seams, and bedding, then vacuum and wash infested fabrics at 60 °C. Follow with heat treatment (≥45 °C) or steam to penetrate hidden areas.
What to use to kill bedbugs in a house? - in detail
Eliminating bedbugs from a residence requires a combination of chemical, physical, and procedural measures. Effective control begins with accurate identification of infested areas, followed by targeted treatment and preventive actions.
Chemical options include:
- Synthetic pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, deltamethrin). Applied as sprays or dusts, they disrupt the insect nervous system. Resistance is common; verify local susceptibility before use.
- Neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid). Effective against resistant strains, but may require professional application due to toxicity concerns.
- Insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as hydroprene. Interfere with molting, reducing population over several weeks.
- Desiccant powders (diatomaceous earth, silica gel). Abrade the exoskeleton, causing dehydration. Best applied in cracks, crevices, and under furniture.
Physical methods complement chemicals:
- Heat treatment: Expose items or rooms to temperatures of 45‑50 °C (113‑122 °F) for at least 90 minutes. Heat penetrates hiding spots and kills all life stages.
- Cold treatment: Freeze infested objects at –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days. Suitable for small textiles, luggage, and electronics.
- Steam: Direct steam at 100 °C (212 °F) into seams, mattress tags, and baseboards. Immediate mortality, but requires thorough coverage.
- Vacuuming: Use a HEPA‑rated vacuum to remove live bugs and eggs from surfaces. Dispose of the bag or canister contents in a sealed container outside the home.
Procedural steps essential for lasting eradication:
- Declutter to reduce hiding places.
- Launder all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics at ≥60 °C (140 °F); dry on high heat.
- Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bedbug-proof covers.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and voids in walls, floorboards, and baseboards with caulk or expanding foam.
- Conduct follow‑up inspections weekly for at least four weeks, repeating treatments if necessary.
Professional pest‑control services often combine the above tactics, employing licensed applicators for pesticide safety and specialized equipment for heat or steam delivery. Selecting the appropriate strategy depends on infestation severity, resistance patterns, and occupant sensitivities. A coordinated approach—chemical agents, thermal or desiccant treatments, and strict sanitation—provides the most reliable outcome for eradicating bedbugs from a home.