Bed bugs are fierce predators adept at hiding, yet responsible for potential health hazards ranging from allergic symptoms to skin rashes. Bed bugs tend to come out at night and hide during the day, making them very hard to find and even more difficult to eliminate.
Several methods are used to control and kill bed bugs and prevent repeated infestations.
Elimination Methods
Natural powders are currently being touted as a surefire way to get rid of the annoying creatures. The drawback is that the bed bugs must walk through the powder for it to be effective.
Chemical Treatment is the most traditional method for getting rid of bed bugs. Sprays, both commercially available brands and professional strength variations, tend to be most effective when combined with common sanitation and cleaning efforts.
Understanding Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small parasitic insects. They feed on human blood when other food sources are not readily available. All species of bed bugs live exclusively off the blood of warm-blooded mammals. Bed bugs were nearly eradicated as pests by the early 1940s. However, the insects have increased in prevalence since the mid 1990s.
The name “bed bug” comes from the insect’s habit of infesting areas where people sleep, especially mattresses. Bed bugs are mostly active at night. This is when they feed on their host. Bed bugs have six life stages. The life cycle of a bed bug is from 32 to 48 days. They need to feed during each stage of their lives.
Preparing for Treatment
Sprays will not be as effective if the infected area is not prepared for treatment first. Start by removing clutter from the infected area to make inspection for bed bugs easier. When inspecting for bed bugs, the following steps are recommended:
Check the Bedding
Look for blood stains or spots on sheets and bedding. This is the most common sign of a bed bug problem. Strip off all bedding and check around common areas on infestation such as creases or buttons.
Check All Areas of the Room
Bed bugs are not just found around the bed or mattress and often travel to other areas of the room. Check cracks and crevices around floors, walls, windows, closets, drawers, smoke alarms, electrical sockets, furnishings and picture frames.
Check Clothing
Bed bugs can easily catch a ride onto their next destination. Examine collars, pockets, shoes, hats and other items of clothing, including clothing in closets or drawers in the infected area.
Personal Items
Personal items such as blankets, toys, stuffed animals and pillows should be removed. These items must be washed in hot water to kill the bed bugs. The area should also be cleaned with a vacuum.
The contents should be disposed of in a bag that can be sealed and disposed of properly. Items such as phones, radios, laptops and other such items should be placed in a plastic bag with Nuvan Strips. These strips will not harm such items.
Hiding Places
Finding hiding places can be time consuming, but is really the only way to eliminate. Remove all drawers from dressers and desks. Turn over furniture since bed bugs may hide in the tiniest locations. Stand up the box spring and take the bed frame apart. These critters like secluded hideaways.
Remove mattress covers and inspect the mattress for holes or tears. Caulk and seal any holes where cable cord or pipes penetrate the floor or walls. Fill any cracks around moldings and baseboards to cut off hiding places.
Clothing and Bedding
All clothing, bedding and draperies in the infected area should be cleaned. Washable items need to be washed in hot water. Dry cleaning will also kill bed bugs. Floors and carpeting should be vacuumed.
Take all items out of drawers and closets in the room where the infestation was first observed. Drawers and closets should be scrubbed and cleaned. The same is true for wood flooring.
Is Chemical Treatment Effective?
If initiated in early stages, chemical treatment can eliminate bed bugs and prevent further infestation. When correctly applied, some experts consider chemical treatment the most effective method for combating bed bugs.
Chemical treatment may also be the most cost-effective bed bug control method. Cryonite treatment and thermal remediation may both be equally effective, but in terms of cost chemical treatment is less expensive.
The Mattress
Newer mattresses offer fewer places for bed bugs to hide. If a mattress is well constructed and does not have any holes or tears, it is likely that it will not have to be replaced. If a mattress has holes, tears or rips, it is possible bed bugs and eggs have found their way inside. In this case, you will most likely be better off with a new mattress to avoid the chance of the area becoming infested again.
Insecticides and Sprays
Some insecticides and aerosols may be used to treat a mattress. Read instructions carefully, as some insecticides and sprays have restrictions on how they may be used and applied to mattresses.
Pyganic Dust, Bedlam Aerosols and Temprid SC Insecticide are the common insecticides and dusts specifically labeled for mattresses. Dusts last longer. However, specially-designed tips on the Bedlams and Phantom make it easier to reach cracks and crevices.
Dusts and sprays may be used on surfaces such as chests, dressers, nightstands, chairs, couches and other furniture.
Checklist
- Check mattresses, buttons, seams, rips, holes, tears and box spring.
- Check other furniture in the room.
- Check pictures, wall posters, switch plates and lighting fixtures.
- Check electrical appliances and gadgets such as phones, radios, televisions and other possible hiding places.
- Check carpeting, tack strips and baseboards.
- Check other beds that may be in the room along with all bedding. Newer mattresses are more resistant to bed bugs than older mattresses.
Infestation Management
Detection
A big part of fighting a bed bug infestation is not only to detect it, but to find all contaminated areas in and around the source of the infestation. Over-the-counter bug sprays are best for the early stages of an infestation. If bed bugs are detected after they have been around for a while, bug sprays will not be as effective.
It is estimated that about 85 percent of bed bugs are found in or near the bed, justifying their name.
Prevention
Most people bring bed bugs into their home from another location. Hotels are a common source of bed bugs. Those who travel frequently should wash their clothes when they return home as a precaution.
Those purchasing second-hand furniture should clean all furniture as soon as it comes into the home to prevent infestation. Cutting down on clutter gives bed bugs fewer hiding places.
Those living in dorms or apartments should inspect beds and areas around the bed frequently for signs of infestation. Washing sheets and bedding on a regular basis is another way to guard against bed bugs. This is especially true in the summer when people tend to be in and out of the house on a regular basis. It is easier to control an infestation when it is detected and eliminated in the early stages.
Non-chemical Treatment
Vacuuming
Vacuums and portable steam cleaners are a generally reliable method to get rid of bed bugs. It usually takes multiple vacuuming to get rid of all bed bugs. Carefully target the areas where they are likely to be hiding such as corners and along the baseboard and around buttons and seams on a mattress. Portable steam cleaners work well because high temperature is involved and extreme heat kills bug beds.
Heating/Chilling
Heating and chilling are two professional non-chemical treatment methods used to kill bed bugs. Commercial heating services heat an entire room to 140°F for a period of two hours or up to 130°F for up to three hours. The process kills most bed bugs and their eggs.
Chilling reduces the temperature to 32°F and maintains that temperature for several days to kill bed bugs and their eggs.
Chemical Treatment
Insecticides
Insecticides are not enough to treat bed bug infestations. They are most effective when used along with other methods such as vacuuming and washing bedding. The most effective pesticides specifically for bed bugs are for commercial pesticide applicators.
Professionals tend to be better trained at detecting infestations and know where to spray to control and eliminate the problem. Insecticides are not usually applied directly to a mattress because of the risk of adverse effects on humans who have to use those mattresses.
Liquid insecticides are generally applied directly to bed frames, cracks, baseboards and other common areas of infestation. Liquid pesticide formulations include three basic formulas:
- Synthetic pyrethroid products such as bifenthrin, deltamethrin and cyhalothrin are effective when used with other control methods.
- Botanical insecticides such as pyrethrin provide potent immediate results but are not good for long-term control.
- Newer products include chlorfenapyr (Phantom) and hydroprene (Gentrol). These products inhibit growth and cause sterility in adult bed bugs.
Do-It-Yourself
There are many over-the-counter pesticide products available on the market. Many of these products claim to be specifically for bed bug control. These products make claims of being able to kill bed bugs with some promising to prevent future infestations. These pesticides are best at killing on contact, but are not really that effective at controlling infestations that have spread.
Performance of over-the-counter pesticides is not known with field tests often inconclusive. Some pest control experts recommend professional pesticide treatments.
Due to regulations, over-the-counter pesticide products are only allowed to be a certain strength. They are better at killing on contact rather than from second-hand contact or controlling an infestation that has already spread.
Evaluating Bed Bug Sprays
Bed bugs can collectively cost millions of dollars in terms of the efforts used to eliminate them each year. This includes efforts to prevent the pesky creatures from coming back.
The most effective way to get rid of bed bugs once an infestation has been detected is by getting rid of existing bedding and furniture in the infected area. This method, obviously, will be the most expensive and is not something everybody can afford to do to eliminate the problem.
Cost
Bed bugs are not known to transmit infections, but they can still cause itching, rashes and other skin disorders since they bite. Pest removal services can be effective in treating bed bug infestations. However, such services may be expensive. Therefore, many people turn to bed bug sprays they can purchase themselves to get rid of the problem.
Effective Treatment
Some products are not as effective as they promise. There is no solid data comparing over-the-counter bed bug sprays. Many companies use independent labs to verify their results. This doesn’t mean all bed bug sprays are ineffective. In fact, some work just fine and are a less expensive alternative to professional treatments.
Combine Pest Control Methods
In order for these products to be effective, additional methods of elimination should be followed. These include inspecting the sleeping area, sealing up cracks and openings and eliminating clutter. The area should also be vacuumed and disinfected. Bedding should be removed and items should be bagged, cleaned and decontaminated. Vacuum and clean the area once more before using a bed bug spray.
Follow Instructions
Follow instructions carefully. Every bed bug spray product has instructions and procedures that should be followed for maximum effectiveness. Most bed bug sprays are supposed to be applied directly to the mattress and bedding.
Wear gloves while spraying any bed bug spray so as not to have skin irritation or transfer the chemical to food or others you come in contact with on a regular basis.
How To Use Bed Bug Sprays
Affordable Solution
Bedding should be sprayed from the outside-in. The bed bug spray should be applied in a circular pattern and is usually able to be applied to furniture too. Walls, headboards and other areas can be spot treated.
Basic bed bug sprays can be found for under $5.00. Surprisingly, there is little difference between the most expensive bed bug sprays on the market and those that are less expensive. Many over-the-counter bed bug sprays can be an affordable solution.
Combination Effect
Some products combine a bactericide, fungicide, and sanitizer along with the bed bug spray. These products tend to be more effective and allow you to use your bedding and other infested materials sooner. They also tend to cover more than just the original infestation area. There is no mixing, these products are simply sprayed where bed bugs were observed.
Powder
Bed bug powder can also be extremely effective. The only drawback is that bed bugs must come in contact with the powder for it to be effective. A plus for many who choose this method is that it works instantly. A powder is best for when you know exactly where the infestation is located.
Price of Removing Bed Bugs
This small, wingless insect can cost a lot of money and take a lot of time and effort to get rid of permanently. The average cost of bed bug extermination is from $200 to $400 (a combination of professional and over-the-counter methods).
Natural solutions tend to be hit and miss. Common natural solutions for removing bed bugs include: black walnut, natural heat, boric acid, steam treatment and botanical insecticides.
Prices vary for professional bed bug extermination services with the final cost depending on the extent of the infestation. The average cost is $250 to $1,000 per room. This includes a plan of action to address the problem and possible repair work that may be necessary to stop further infestations.
This makes bed bug sprays a desirable alternative to professional methods. Those with a more serious infestation may be better off going with a professional service to solve the problem.
Preventing Future Infestations
Bed bug sprays generally work well for treating the initial infestation. The key to controlling a bed bug infestation is to prevent future invasions from the unpleasant little creatures. Keep in mind that bed bugs travel into a home on clothes or luggage.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, those who travel a lot should take the following precautions to avoid transporting bed bugs:
When Traveling
- Place luggage in the bathtub or leave it in the hallway as you inspect the mattress in the hotel or place you are staying for signs of bed bugs.
- Place clothes that you wear when traveling in a plastic bag so they can be laundered when back at home without contaminating other areas.
- Report any observance of bed bugs to the management and to the Better Business Bureau if hotel management is unresponsive. If the problem is serious enough, the local health department may need to be involved.
When Returning
- Wash clothes when returning from vacation to ensure bed bugs are not transmitted into the home.
- Disinfect any soft toys or other such items to eliminate the change of cross contamination.
- Place luggage in a bathtub or other isolated area until it can be inspected for bed bugs.
Be Proactive
The best way to prevent a bed bug infestation to be take measures to avoid infestation in the first place. This includes washing bedding on a regular basis, inspecting mattresses, checking luggage when returning from travel and checking dorm rooms, apartments or hotels for signs of bed bugs since these dwellings are most susceptible to bed bug infestations.
Safety of Bed Bug Sprays
Some bed bug sprays are more intense than others. There are certain chemicals you will find common among most bed bug sprays. The main difference is the combination of these chemicals. Some bed bug sprays are described as all-natural or non-toxic. These tend to be better for those who are concerned about chemicals that may have harm small children or pets.
It is important to choose a bed bug spray that is not only safe, but effective. Spending money on a bed bug spray that does not really work is a waste of time and money.
Top Bed Bug Sprays
According to independent testing results, Bed Bug Patrol is the top all-natural bed bug spray. This produce contains natural ingredients such as peppermint, coconut extract oil and cloves. The product has been verified to be effective on bed bugs, but completely safe to humans and pets.
Eco-Friendly Living ranks second. Both of these products should be used for two weeks to ensure the elimination of bed bugs. They should be used once a day for the first week and every other day during the second week.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Best Yet Insect Spray is a safe alternative to other treatments on the market. The product is said to be effective and is made from food grade ingredients so it does not produce an offensive odor.
PuraCleenRx is also an EPA favorite. This bed bug spray is not all-natural. It has many of the same ingredients as common hospital disinfectants, including benzalkonium chloride. Many of the ingredients in this product have proven to be safe for use in hospitals for years. Therefore, they are just as safe when used in this product.
How Bed Bug Spray Helps
There are many products on the market promising to get rid of bed bugs. Most can be found at local hardware stores or online. Before using any type of insecticide, a home will need to be pre-treated. This includes moving all furniture away from walls to allow access to the baseboards so they can be treated and bagging all clothes so they can be cleaned.
A room should also be vacuumed prior to using any bug spray. Remember that the vacuum will need to be cleaned so it doesn’t accidentally spread bed bugs.
Safe for Furniture?
Some bed bugs sprays are effective in eliminating the troublesome insect, but some of the chemicals are not safe for furniture. It is best to test a small area of a mattress to make sure it does not discolor the fabric. Carefully read instructions and check the list of ingredients to be sure they are not harmful to fabric.
Some insecticides may also be harmful to furniture. This is another reason bed bug sprays with natural ingredients are preferred by some homeowners.
Getting the Most Out of Bed Bug Sprays
Assess the Situation
Do a little research before you purchase a bed bug spray. Find out what sprays are safe for the furniture you have in your home. Prices will vary, but even less expensive bed bugs can be effective. Another factor is the extent of the infestation. If it is a mild infestation or has been caught in the early stages, an over-the-counter bed bug spray should be effective.
Price is not an indication of quality when it comes to selecting a bed bug spray. Bed bug sprays often require repeated treatments to be completely effective. Other methods of elimination should be combined with bed bug spray treatment to maximize success.
Treat All Areas of Infestation
Even just one bed bug can reproduce and leave you with nearly 200 bed bugs in just over a month. If you use bed bug spray, remember that every crack and crevice needs to be sprayed to eliminate them.
Before investing in bed bug spray, inspect your home to find all hiding places. These may include the bedroom, hallway and other high traffic areas of the home. If one room is infested, they have likely made it to other rooms in your home.
Once you have identified all areas of infestations, begin spraying. Powders are best for bed bugs you do not see during initial inspection.
Follow Instructions
Each brand of bed bug spray has specific instructions for use. Generally, most bed bug sprays require at least two weeks of usage to be successful. Treatment should continue at least once a month after that for the next twelve months to ensure all bed bugs are gone from the infested area.
If there are still bed bugs after this, it is time to contact a professional since the infestation is obviously very extensive by that point. It is important not to skip any of the instructions, even though some steps may seem unnecessary.
If treatment with a bed bug spray does not work, it may just mean you have selected the wrong type of bed bug spray for your problem. It is usually best to try a few different bed bug sprays in early attempts to deal with the problem. If these do not work, you have a more serious problem and need a professional.
Tips for Avoiding Bed Bugs
- Learn to recognize what bed bugs look like. Some people mistake other insects for bed bugs.
- Avoid potential hiding places such as dust ruffles and bed skirts. If you do have extras like this on your bed, make sure they do not touch the floor to avoid creating an easy pathway for bed bugs.
- Maintain at least two inches of space between the wall and your headboard if possible. This eliminates an easy access route for bed bugs.
- Take off your shoes before entering your house if possible. Bed bugs have been known to be transported on shoes. Bed bug eggs can also travel this way. Have your guests do the same. It is also a good idea to frequently wash shoes or at least rinse them off with hot water.
- Do not bring used bedding or furniture into your home until you have inspected these items thoroughly. The same is true even with new items since delivery trucks may become infested since many remove old items while delivering new items.
It is a good idea to inspect any new or used piece of furniture that enters your home. This is especially true of a new mattress.
- Protect your bedding. Periodic spraying with over-the-counter bed bug sprays is a good way to prevent further infestations if you have had them in the past. One recommendation is to inspect and check your bedding and mattress with each new season or when you flip your mattress to check for signs of infestation.
- When you travel, inspect your hotel room for signs of bed bugs. Travel is the top way in which bed bugs are transferred.
The quality of the hotel is not always an indicator of whether or not there will be bed bugs. Even the fanciest hotels may have problems with bed bugs. Use things such as travel bags, suitcase liners, garment bags, laundry bags and travel pillow protectors. Inspect all luggage and other items you acquired or took with you while traveling.
Things to Consider
Bed bug sprays come in all shapes and sizes. Literally. Some are all-natural, others are chemical-based. Some are designed to work on contact, others promise protection for a certain period of time.
The best line of defense against bed bugs is information. Once you know what to look for, you can make a better informed decision about which bed bug spray works best for your particular situation. Remember that bed bug sprays will not be effective if used as the sole method of treatment.
Cleaning and preparation must take place before treatment with a bed bug spray can begin. If you have young children and pets, you will want to choose a bed bug spray without harmful chemicals. Follow the instructions carefully and if all else fails, call a professional as a final treatment option.
Bed Bug Dos and Don’ts
Do: Inspect your home periodically for bed bugs. Especially bedrooms and guestrooms.
Don’t: Do not panic. Remain calm and assess the situation. It is not always a worst case scenario. If the infestation is caught early enough, simple steps are usually all that is necessary.
Do: Be proactive. Reduce clutter around the bed especially. Eliminate hiding places. Inspect bedding and mattresses on a regular basis.
Don’t: Do not relocate the item that is infested. This will only spread bed bugs quickly throughout your house and cause more problems and make it more difficult to control the situation.
Do: Immediately wash all bedding and clean the general area once you notice an infestation.
Don’t: Randomly buy any bed bug spray. A little time and effort can help you find the one you need. There are plenty of experts out there to help you in the selection process and offer advice.
Do: Take the time to follow all recommendations for treatment. Be persistent and patient and odds are your bed bug problem can be brought under control.
Always Have a Proactive Attitude
Ultimately, bed bug sprays are most effective if you follow the instructions and catch the infestation in the early stages. This is not to say that they cannot play a role in the treatment process at later stages. Bed bug sprays can be combined with other treatments to increase the chances of effectiveness.
Bed bugs have caused millions of dollars in damage due to lost hotel fees and the cost of extermination over the last decade alone. Today, people travel more often, increasing transference. According to one estimate, the prevalence of bed bug infestations are up 5,000 percent over the past 15 years. A proactive attitude is the best way to combat bed bugs.
