Can Washing Clothes Help Kill Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are a major nuisance and can be a major cause of distress for many people. It is important to take the necessary steps to eradicate them, but it can often be difficult to know the most effective way to do so. One of the most common questions is whether washing clothes in a washing machine will help to kill bed bugs. This article will explore the answer to this question and provide an overview of the best ways to get rid of bed bugs.

Do Bed Bugs Die in the Washer?

Bed bugs are resilient creatures, but they can be killed by exposure to certain temperatures. A washing machine can reach temperatures of up to 140°F (60°C), which will kill bed bugs. However, the water temperature needs to remain at the high temperature for at least 20 minutes in order to be effective. This means that it is important to set the washing machine to the highest temperature and to make sure that the clothes remain in the water for the full 20 minutes in order for the washing to be effective in killing bed bugs.

It is also important to note that washing machines can sometimes be a source of bed bug infestations. If bed bugs are present in the washing machine, they can survive the washing cycle and may be spread to other parts of the house. Therefore, it is important to make sure that the washing machine is properly cleaned and inspected for bed bugs before washing clothes.

In addition to washing clothes in a washing machine, bed bugs can also be killed through exposure to dry heat. A clothes dryer can reach temperatures of up to 130°F (55°C) which will also kill bed bugs. It is important to note that the dryer should be set to the highest temperature and the clothes should remain in the dryer for at least 30 minutes in order to be effective in killing bed bugs.

What Are the Best Ways to Kill Bed Bugs?

In addition to washing clothes in a washing machine or drying them in a clothes dryer, there are several other effective methods for killing bed bugs. These include using a vacuum cleaner to remove bed bugs and their eggs, as well as using chemical pesticides.

Vacuuming is an effective way to remove bed bugs from furniture and carpets. Vacuums can be used to remove bed bugs from cracks and crevices, as well as from mattresses, bed frames, and other surfaces. Vacuuming should be done regularly in order to ensure that any bed bugs that may be present are removed.

In addition to vacuuming, chemical pesticides can also be used to kill bed bugs. Chemical pesticides are available in liquid, dust, and aerosol forms and should be applied according to the instructions on the label. It is important to note that chemical pesticides can be toxic and should be used with caution.

In addition to chemical pesticides, there are also certain essential oils that can be used to kill bed bugs. Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil are all effective in killing bed bugs and their eggs. Essential oils should be applied directly to bed bug infested areas, such as mattresses, bed frames, and carpets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, washing clothes in a washing machine or drying them in a clothes dryer can help to kill bed bugs. However, it is important to ensure that the water or air temperature remains at the high temperature for the recommended amount of time in order for it to be effective. In addition to washing and drying, vacuuming and using chemical pesticides or essential oils can also be effective in killing bed bugs.