Struggling with Bed Bugs? Here’s How Heat and Other Methods Can Help

by carolyn
(phx az)

Reader Question: Can Heat Help Eliminate Bed Bugs?

I have sprayed 5 times. Ive used borax, salt, garlic, thyme, cayenne pepper, vinegar and still have these stupid bugs. were going to try to turn the heater on next. We do not have the money to call an exterminator. Hopefully heat will work.

Our Response

Hi, thank you for sharing your experience. Dealing with bed bugs without professional help can be challenging, but using heat strategically might help. Let’s review how heat works and some other cost-effective solutions

Using Heat to Eliminate Bed Bugs

• How Heat Works: Bed bugs die when exposed to temperatures of 118°F (48°C) or higher for at least 20 minutes. This includes all life stages, from eggs to adults.
• Home Heating Challenges: Simply turning up your home’s heater is unlikely to reach the necessary temperatures to kill bed bugs in all hiding spots. Most residential heating systems don’t go beyond 85–90°F.
• Effective Heat Methods: Consider using targeted heat treatments, such as:
• Running clothes, bedding, and small items through a washer and dryer on high heat.
• Using a portable bed bug heater, such as a heat chamber designed for infested items.
• Renting a professional-grade heat treatment device, if available in your area.

Challenges with DIY Remedies

• Limited Effectiveness of Sprays: Many
  over-the-counter sprays only kill bugs on contact and don’t address eggs or hidden bugs effectively.
• Natural Remedies: While natural methods like borax, salt, and vinegar can help deter pests, they’re not proven to eliminate bed bugs entirely. These methods might only act as temporary deterrents.
• Integrated Approach Needed: Combining multiple strategies is more likely to succeed than relying on one method alone.

Cost-Effective Solutions

1. Vacuum Thoroughly: Vacuum all surfaces, focusing on mattress seams, baseboards, and furniture crevices. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately in a sealed plastic bag.
2. Use Mattress Encasements: Invest in bed bug-proof encasements for your mattress and box spring to trap and starve bugs hiding inside.
3. Set Traps: Use bed bug interceptors under bed legs to monitor and reduce the bug population over time.
4. Declutter: Minimize hiding spots by reducing clutter and sealing cracks or gaps in walls and furniture.

When to Seek Help

If the infestation persists despite your efforts, consider reaching out to local resources or non-profits for assistance. Some organizations offer low-cost or free pest control services for individuals in financial hardship.
Heat can be a powerful tool against bed bugs if used correctly, but it’s essential to combine it with thorough cleaning, vacuuming, and preventive measures. Keep monitoring progress and adjusting your approach as needed. Let us know how it goes or if you have further questions—we’re here to help! Best regards,

Jeff,
Editor and Publisher
Bed Bugs Handbook