Can You Use Vinegar For Bed Bugs?
WouterOne of the most stubborn household pests is bed bugs. Although they do not transmit disease, they can leave itchy welts on the exposed skin. Fortunately, home remedies are available to help control their population. One such remedy is vinegar. If used properly, vinegar can be an effective way to eliminate bed bugs.
You can fill an empty spray bottle with vinegar and then apply it to the perimeter of your room. Alternatively, you can use a Dollar Tree, ULINE or UPC bottle to soak the walls and tight spaces. The vinegar will scatter the bed bugs and send them running into other areas of the room.
The most effective vinegar for killing bed bugs is one that contains a higher concentration of acetic acid. This type of vinegar is sold for cleaning and is 20-30 times stronger than ordinary white vinegar. It works by disrupting the bugs’ nervous system. Although the acidic nature of vinegar can be irritating to humans, it is safe to use as a bed bug treatment.
When using vinegar as a bed bug treatment, it is important to remember that it is not a complete cure. The vinegar spray will not kill bed bugs in their eggs or larva, and it may not be effective enough to completely eliminate the bugs. You should repeat the application once daily or every five days.
