Can Sunlight Kill Bed Bugs in Your RV? Here’s What to Know

by Laura
(FL)

Reader Question: Will Leaving an RV in the Sun Eliminate Bed Bugs?

We are on a cross country trip in our RV. I started noticing bites on my back about a week into our trip. We have owned this RV for 2 years now and have been on several trips with no problems regarding bugs in the past.

We have not been able to see an adult bed bug yet (after daily inspections) but we have found fecal matter on the sheets. We inspected the mattress, box spring and inner foam of the mattress but still no bugs found.

Since we live in FL and it is summertime do you think leaving the RV in the sun with all of our belongings inside will kill them if it is truly a bed bug infestation? Our vehicles can get beyond the 113 degrees needed to kill them in the summer but I want to make sure they are gone from our RV for good!

Our Response

Hi, thank you for reaching out! Bed bug infestations in RVs can be particularly challenging because of the limited space and their ability to hide in small crevices. Let’s address your question about using heat from sunlight to eliminate bed bugs and explore additional measures to ensure they’re gone for good.

Can Sunlight Effectively Kill Bed Bugs?

• Temperature Requirements: Bed bugs die at temperatures of 113°F when exposed for 90 minutes or more. At 118°F, all life stages, including eggs, can die within 20 minutes.
• RV Heating Potential: In hot climates like Florida during the summer, vehicles and RVs can easily reach or exceed these temperatures,
  especially when parked in direct sunlight.
• Limitations: While heating the RV can kill many bed bugs, there’s no guarantee that every nook and cranny will consistently reach lethal temperatures. Insulated areas, shaded spots, or belongings packed tightly may not heat evenly.

Steps to Maximize Effectiveness

1. Prepare the RV: Open all storage compartments, drawers, and closets. Spread out belongings to ensure heat reaches all surfaces.
2. Monitor Temperatures: Use thermometers in multiple areas of the RV to confirm that all spaces consistently reach at least 118°F.
3. Repeat the Process: Perform multiple heating sessions to ensure that any surviving bugs or eggs are eliminated.

Other Essential Measures

• Inspect and Clean Thoroughly: Vacuum all surfaces, focusing on crevices, seams, and corners. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately in a sealed plastic bag.
• Wash and Heat-Dry Fabrics: Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water and dry them on high heat. This will kill bed bugs hiding in these items.
• Use Bed Bug-Proof Encasements: Place mattress and pillow encasements on your RV bedding to trap and prevent further infestations.

When to Seek Professional Help

If the infestation persists despite your efforts, consider contacting a pest control professional experienced in treating RVs. They can apply heat or chemical treatments specifically designed for confined spaces like vehicles.
Using the sun to heat your RV is a promising strategy, especially in hot climates like Florida. However, to ensure complete elimination, combine this approach with thorough cleaning and additional treatments. For an extra layer of protection consider spraying an insecticide such as Sterifab or Bedlam Plus. Spot test sprays to avoid staining RV fabrics or other surfaces. Let us know if you have further questions or updates—we’re here to help!
Best regards,
Jeff,
Editor and Publisher,
Bed Bugs Handbook