“9 Safe Methods to Eliminate and Prevent Bed Bugs”
I really don’t like to bring this up, but sometimes it’s necessary. Have you ever said the rhyme “Goodnight, sleep tight, don’t let the bedbugs bite” to your kids and wondered why? Are bed bugs something to worry about today, or are they just a thing of the past?
Unfortunately, bed bugs are very real. Since the 90s, they’ve made a big comeback in the US and worldwide. They might even be sharing your bed with you at night! Here’s what you can do about it.
First, some interesting facts about bed bugs: Before you rush to throw out your mattress, take a moment. Bed bugs are tough to eliminate once they settle in. They thrive in most conditions, reproduce quickly, and can survive without food for up to 400 days. While chemical extermination is an option, many people are hesitant to use chemicals where they sleep. Plus, bed bugs have developed resistance to some of these chemicals over time, making it a widespread issue.
Ready to tackle the problem? Prevention and early detection are your best defenses against a bed bug infestation, so don’t wait! You’ll need a flashlight and a mirror to start. These critters are tiny, and their eggs are invisible to the naked eye. Most bed bugs are found on and around mattresses and bed frames, so begin your search there.
If you spot signs of bed bugs, try these natural methods to fight them. If you don’t find any evidence, skip to the crucial step 9. Wage war on them: flick them out of crevices with a business card, crush them with a paper towel, vacuum them up, or catch them on sticky tape. Do whatever it takes to get rid of them.
Gather everything near the sleeping area that can be washed, like stuffed animals, pillows, blankets, and sheets. Wash and dry them on a hot cycle, as high heat will kill the bed bugs and their eggs. Items that can’t be washed can be bagged and placed in the freezer, as extremely low temperatures will also kill them.
Vacuum the mattress, bed frame, carpet, both sides of the headboard, and any crevices daily if you’re treating for bed bugs. Use the most powerful suction attachment you have, and make sure to seal and dispose of the vacuum bag immediately outside your home.
Tea tree oil, cedar oil, and orange oil are harmful to bed bugs on contact. Mix them with water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the treated areas daily. Diatomaceous earth (DE) is also effective against bed bugs. Sprinkle it on mattresses, bed frames, and carpets (wear a dust mask for this step), and vacuum up the excess before sleeping.
Bed bugs don’t care if a house is messy or clean, but reducing clutter under and around beds can limit their hiding spots. Be sure to treat these items if you find signs of dust mites. Whether you have bed bugs or not, don’t skip this step!
Dealing with a bed bug infestation takes time, money, and can be stressful. Prevent them by following these best practices before they become a problem. If you’ve successfully battled bed bugs, share your experience and what methods worked for you.
