One of the most popular methods for addressing bed bug infestations is through heat treatments. However, it’s important to note that if done incorrectly, heat treatments may not get rid of bed bugs. And when it comes to a bed bug infestation, time is of the essence.
How Heat Kills Bed Bugs
Although bed bugs are known for being difficult to get rid of, they aren’t invincible. Bed bugs can be killed if they are exposed to high heat for prolonged periods of time. Bed bugs need to be exposed to a lethal temperature of 113 degrees Fahrenheit or higher for at least 90 minutes. If bed bugs are exposed to higher temperatures, they can die more quickly – but this can be dangerous unless conducted by professionals.
Bed Bug Heat Treatments
Now that we’ve established bed bug infestations can be managed with heat treatments, you may have questions about what to expect.
Do DIY Bed Bug Heat Treatments Work?
It’s only natural to want to tackle a bed bug problem as soon as possible, and for many people, the first place to turn is do-it-yourself solutions. People will often use portable electric heaters, radiators, and even hair dryers to try to kill bed bugs. But will these DIY treatments actually work?
If you are considering attempting a DIY bed bug heat treatment, keep in mind:
- Bed bugs are known to flee a variety of treatments, including heat treatments. Because bed bugs are so small, they can hide in even the smallest crevices. They can squeeze into cracks in baseboards, box springs, and even mattress seams. If you do not thoroughly cover an area and perfectly seal every entry point, there’s a good chance they will escape only to emerge again.
- It can be hugely challenging to know just how hot your heat source is. If you’re using a standard space heater, you won’t necessarily know if you’re reaching lethal temperatures. And on the flip side, if your device is running too hot, you could ruin heat-sensitive items or cause other forms of damage to your home.
- Using a clothes dryer can work to eliminate bed bugs from infested items like sheets and linens. Any functioning dryer should reach high enough temperatures to effectively kill bed bugs. Unfortunately, a standard dryer can only hold so much. That said, you can certainly reduce your risk of bringing bed bugs into your home by emptying any dryer-safe belongings directly into the dryer after you get back from a trip. This method won’t be effective if bed bugs are already invading your furniture, but it’s excellent for preventative measures.
When Do You Need Professional Bed Bug Heat Treatments?
Exterminators that specialize in bed bug infestations have access to equipment specifically designed to eliminate these pests. Pest control companies will use commercial heaters that can cover a much larger area and are able to hold a high enough temperature for a long enough time to kill bed bugs. Plus, when you opt for a professional heat treatment, your technician can help you ensure any items at risk of damage are protected during treatment or removed if necessary.
What can I expect from a professional bed bug heat treatment?
A bed bug heat treatment will likely be part of a larger professional treatment plan. Heat can be an effective method for addressing smaller-scale infestations that are limited to only one room or modest living spaces. If a heat treatment is used in your unique situation, your exterminator will identify the best places to set up commercial heaters and let you know how long they will need to be running. They may ask you to leave the property or at minimum the heated area, while this work is done.
Does cold kill bed bugs?
Yes, cold temperatures can kill bed bugs, but only when exposed to very low temperature for long periods of time. When temperatures begin to drop, bed bugs will enter a state known as diapause, similar to hibernation, to conserve energy. But if temperatures do get extremely low (below freezing) and bed bugs are continuously exposed to those temperatures, they will eventually die. This isn’t considered an effective method for treating bed bugs because it can be extremely challenging to cool a large area to low enough temperatures to actually kill bed bugs.
Other Bed Bug Control Tactics
Even though heat treatments can be effective, they may not be a good fit for your situation. This is where other bed bug control methods come into play.
Fumigation
Bed bug fumigations involve using large quantities of highly-concentrated pesticides throughout your whole house or structure. Fumigations can only be performed by licensed professionals – and not all pest control companies are able to offer this specialized treatment. Fortunately, Dodson Pest Control has technicians that specialize in all forms of bed bug treatments, including tape-and-seal and tented fumigations.
Liquid Chemical Treatments
In some cases, liquid treatments may be an effective way to address a bed bug problem. However, this option is typically used in tandem with other treatments. A professional pest control inspector can let you know if this should be part of your strategy to get rid of bed bugs.
Dodson Pest Control Bed Bug Treatments
At Dodson Pest Control, we take an integrated approach when it comes to treating bed bug infestations. These tiny insects can reproduce quickly, and although high temperatures kill bed bugs when used correctly, a mixed-method approach through professional intervention is often your best bet to ensure an infestation is gone for good. Our bed bug technicians receive specialized training to tackle an infestation from all angles, eliminating bed bug eggs, nymphs, and adult bed bugs. Our pest control professionals are available to provide you with a free inspection.
