How Hot Does It Have to Be to Kill Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs have a high sensitivity to heat, and scientists have shown that temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit kill them. However, this temperature is difficult for the average household to reach, and requires additional equipment. As such, many “tips and tricks” for killing bed bugs are ineffective.

The most effective way to get rid of bed bugs is to use heat. Heat will kill both the bugs and the eggs that they lay. A professional bed bug exterminator will keep your home at 113 degrees Fahrenheit or more for more than 4 hours to eliminate the infestation. This heat will permeate the walls, baseboards, and even air vents to kill the bed bugs and their eggs.

Before applying heat to an infested area, make sure that you prepare the area well. Remove anything that might spoil or melt. Also, make sure that you remove any flammables, such as alcohol, propane, and gasoline. Lastly, if you have brought something from the outside, check to make sure it is free of bed bugs. Even if you can’t see a single bug, bed bugs can lay eggs, which can eventually result in an infestation.

Although heat is an effective way to kill bed bugs, it may not be enough to kill the bugs. The temperature should be high enough to kill adult bed bugs and their eggs. This is not possible with ordinary heating methods, such as open windows or space heaters. Moreover, heat treatment should only be used by a professional if you have the proper equipment. If you are worried about the effects, you should consult a licensed pest control specialist.