The Best Bed Bug Extermination Methods

Steam and Thermal Heating

• Bedbugs are sensitive to high temperatures and will perish with prolonged exposure to temperatures exceeding 115 F. Steam cleaning sheets or mattresses will not only clean the fabrics but also will provide heat that will penetrate the fibers, killing any deeply-hidden bedbugs. Exterminators will also use thermal heating techniques, which may utilize heating fans to heat isolated areas to extreme temperatures very quickly. Extermination via heat is adequate for severe infestations.

Dryer Heating

• Dryer heating is effective for less severe infestations whereas bedbugs are found only in sheets or garments. Wash the items in warm water, and dry them in medium to high heat. The combination of soap and heat should kill the bedbugs in all stages of their life cycle, according to the University of Kentucky. Dryer heating obviously cannot be used for large items like mattresses.

Insecticides

• Insecticides should be used only for the most severe infestations due to having to use chemicals that could be potentially harmful to you or your pets if not used responsibly. Insecticides come in various forms, including powders and sprays that are applied to infested areas. Powders like Pyganic dust acts as a desiccant to bedbugs, cracking their exoskeletons. It can be extra effective if used in conjunction with a liquid insect poison.

Disposal

• The only solution to overly severe, recurring infestations is to dispose of the infested items. You should throw away mattresses or garments that can not be cleared of infestation even after multiple attempts with multiple methods. Professional exterminators can sometimes save such items, but if not, you're only option is to replace them.