9 Effective Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs Right Away

If you have ever experienced a bedbug infestation, then you know how terrible they are despite their size.

What Are Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are small, reddish, blood-sucking wingless insects that are known for feeding solely on the blood of people and animals while they sleep. During the day, they hide in the cracks and crevices of beds, box springs, and bed frames.

Scientifically known as Cimex lectularius, are nocturnal pests that easily travel from one place to another through luggage, clothing, or even used furniture.

Causes of bed bugs infestation

• Travel: Staying in contaminated hotels or accommodations can result in bedbugs following you home.
• Used Furniture: Bringing used furniture, particularly mattresses and upholstered goods, into your home without first thoroughly inspecting it can introduce bedbugs.
• Clutter: Clutter provides several hiding places for bedbugs, allowing them to grow and reproduce.
• Lack of proper cleaning: Regular cleaning reduces the likelihood of bedbugs finding ideal conditions to nest and eat.
• Clothing and Bedding: Bedbugs can hide in clothing and bedding that is left on the floor or in piles.

Bed bugs can be very unpleasant and uncomfortable, but there are efficient home remedies for dealing with these unwanted guests.

Home Remedies For Bedbugs

1. Steam Cleaning

Using high-temperature steam, for cleaning has proven to be a method of getting rid of bedbugs. The intense heat produced by the steam is able to reach into the cracks and crevices instantly killing bedbugs upon contact. This technique works wonders on upholstery, mattresses, and curtains as these are hiding spots for these pests. It’s worth noting that the steam used must be sufficiently hot to ensure the eradication of both adult bugs and their eggs.

2. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a powder containing about 80%-90% silica. This natural remedy harnesses the power of fossilized algae to dehydrate and ultimately eliminate bedbugs. Diatomaceous earth is safe for humans and pets that pose a threat to insects due, to its abrasive nature. When applied in areas affected by infestation it damages the layer of bedbugs causing them to lose moisture and eventually perish. It’s crucial to use food-grade earth and apply it generously in areas where bedbugs are likely to crawl.

3. Lemon Juice Spray

Lemon juice has natural acidic characteristics that can help repel bedbugs. In a spray bottle, combine equal parts lemon juice and water to make a lemon juice spray. Spray this solution around bedbug-prone areas and potential entry points to keep them away from your house.

4. Washing and Heat Drying

In the fight against bedbugs, hot water, and high heat are very effective. Bedbugs can be eradicated at all life phases, from eggs to adults, by washing infested clothing, bedding, and curtains in hot water (at least 120°F or 49°C), followed by vigorous heat drying.

5. Baking Soda

Baking soda, a common ingredient found in most kitchens, can be used as a desiccant to dry bedbugs. Apply baking soda to affected areas, giving special attention to cracks and holes. When the bugs come into contact with baking soda, it causes them to dry out and die.

6. Essential Oil Blend

Combine essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, clove, lemongrass, and peppermint to make a potent bedbug-fighting spray. Dilute a few drops of each oil in water, shake well, then apply to affected areas.

7. Silica Gel Packets

Silica gel packets, which are commonly used in packaging to absorb moisture, can also help dry off bedbugs. When these packets are placed near affected regions, the gel slowly absorbs moisture from the bugs, causing them to dehydrate and die.

8. Vinegar

Due to its high acetic acid content, white vinegar can help kill bedbugs immediately upon contact. To get rid of bedbugs, put white vinegar in a spray bottle and fill it with water. Additionally, vinegar can also be used to wipe down surfaces and clean infested areas.

9. Sunlight exposure

Bedbugs loathe sunlight and heat. By moving infested items outdoors on a sunny day to expose them to direct sunlight, the heat and UV rays can help kill the bugs and their eggs.