One of the most popular methods for addressing bed bug infestations is through heat treatments. While these treatments sometimes work, it’s important to note that if done incorrectly, heat treatments may not get rid of bed bugs. Bed bugs reproduce rapidly, meaning that when it comes to a bed bug infestation, time is of the essence.
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Does Heat Kill Bed Bugs?
Although bed bugs are known for being difficult to get rid of, they aren’t invincible. Adult bed bugs die if they are exposed to high heat for prolonged periods of time but it can be a challenge to ensure all the bugs are eradicated without assistance from a professional. 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. However, this can be dangerous to attempt unless conducted by professionals.
Does Cold Kill Bed Bugs?
Yes, cold temperatures can kill bed bugs, but only when exposed to very low temperatures 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.
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 with heat exposure. But will these DIY treatments actually work?
If you are considering attempting DIY bed bug heat treatment methods, 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 cracks and crevices. They can squeeze into small 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. You can also reduce the risk of bringing back bed bugs from trips by storing dirty laundry and other items in sealed bags while they’re in the hotel room. This method won’t be effective if bed bugs are already invading your furniture, but it’s excellent for preventative measures.
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. These tactics should only be used by professional exterminators. Here are some other options:
Fumigation: Bed bug fumigations involve using large quantities of highly-concentrated pesticides throughout your whole house or structure to kill bed bugs. Fumigations can only be performed by licensed professionals – and not all extermination 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 inspector can let you know if this should be part of your strategy to get rid of bed bugs.
When You Should Call In The Professionals
Professional pest control companies have access to equipment specifically designed to kill bed bugs in an efficient and effective manner. Typically, this will involve whole room heat treatments. 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 To Expect From Professional Bed Bug 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 smaller living spaces. If a bed bug 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. Other professional bed bug treatment methods may include fumigation or liquid chemical treatments depending on the scale of the infestation and other factors.
If You’re Experiencing A Bed Bug Infestation, Dodson Pest Control Can Help.
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, killing bed bug eggs, nymphs, and adult bed bugs. Our professionals are available to provide you with a free inspection.
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