Can You Kill Bed Bugs With Steam?
WouterOne of the best ways to eliminate bed bugs is to use a steam cleaner. These machines work by forcing steam into crevices and holes. They can penetrate upholstered furniture and even bolts and screws. However, it can be difficult to steam into cushioned furniture like La-Z-Boy recliners. To overcome this challenge, you can get a helper to hold the steam wand while you steam.
A steam cleaner can kill bed bugs, but you must be very careful and thorough. To be effective, steam cleaning must penetrate all cracks and crevices. The steam cleaner must be able to reach the bedbugs in every crevice. If you do not take the time to explore all areas, you are unlikely to kill them.
Steam cleaning machines cost between $1,500 and $12,000. But if you are a commercial cleaning company or a housing cooperative, you may be able to justify the cost. If you are just a home owner and are on a budget, renting a steam cleaner may be an option.
When using a steam cleaner to kill bed bugs, the temperature should be at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature will kill the bugs on contact. However, this high temperature is not suitable for long durations. Moreover, a good steamer can treat bedbugs even seven-tenths of an inch below the surface of the fabric.
