Bed bugs infestations are some of the most challenging to treat. First of all, bed bugs hide during the day and have a rapid reproduction rate, so an infestation can sneak up on you quickly if you are not prepared. Additionally, many are now becoming resistant to chemical treatments.
However, there are a variety of ways to treat bed bugs. This article will explain what kills bed bugs and break down myths on what doesn’t.
In this article, we will cover:
- Does Alcohol Kill Bed Bugs?
- Does Bleach Kills Bed Bugs?
- Does Heat Kill Bed Bugs?
- Does Cryonite Freeze Kill Bed Bugs?
Does Alcohol Kill Bed Bugs?
In short, yes, alcohol does have the ability to kill bed bugs. It can dissolve the bug’s outer shell and dry them out to get rid of the infestation. It also has the same effect on bed bug eggs. However, alcohol is not the best solution for a variety of reasons.
First, alcohol requires direct contact to be effective in killing bed bugs. Typically, bed bugs hide in cracks and crevices of the walls, mattresses, and box springs. If you put alcohol on top of those areas, it would have a hard time reaching the bugs before getting a chance to kill them.
It’s also not 100% effective. Laboratory studies by Rutgers University show direct spray of either of these two products killed a maximum of 50% of the bed bugs.
Most importantly, alcohol is highly flammable, which creates a significant fire hazard.
Does Bleach Kill Bed Bugs?
Technically, bleach can kill bed bugs on direct contact by oxidizing their outer shell, but bleach is a dangerous and overall ineffective treatment method.
When using bleach, you risk damaging property and inhaling poisonous fumes. You have the potential to ruin your furniture and also put your health at risk when spraying bleach. So, while you can kill bed bugs with bleach, it is wise to opt for a more effective solution.
Does Heat Kill Bed Bugs?
Yes, heat treatments can kill bed bugs. Heat treatment offers particular advantages when it comes to bed bug management. Heat is non-toxic and can kill all bed bug life stages, including bed bug eggs. However, heat treatments come with disadvantages as well.
When treating bed bugs with heat, you must significantly raise your home’s temperature, which is a timely, tricky, and costly process. Using heat treatments to destroy bed bugs is like draining a pool to get a piece of trash out of it. Your entire home, including furniture, clothing, and electronics, are all at risk of destruction along with the bed bugs.
Overall, heat treatments require more time, workforce, and equipment but can be an efficacious option, especially in severe infestations.
Does Cryonite Freeze Kill Bed Bugs?
Yes, Cryonite freeze is an effective way to wipe out a bedbug infestation. Our innovative treatment can effectively eliminate many crawling insects at all stages of life. The freezing process works by deploying “snow” or CO2 gas to kill bed bugs instantly.
The patented Cryonite hose is designed to reach bed bugs living in electrical outlets, pipes, or other crevices. Furthermore, the CO2 provides a flushing effect that draws the bed bugs into the open.
Additionally, it’s a non-toxic and residue-free product, so you don’t have to worry about putting the safety of your guests, pets, technician, or yourself at risk. The fast cooling nature of the product also helps you get service fast, unlike other methods that take hours or even days to complete.
Overall, freezing is an effective, quick, and safe treatment for bed bugs.
What’s the Best Treatment Option?
Regardless of the treatment you choose, safety should be your top priority. When it comes to treating bed bugs, alcohol and bleach can put your health at risk, making them poor venues for treating bed bugs.
Additionally, the size and severity of the infestation are factors in determining the best solution. If the infestation is exceptionally severe, a heat treatment might be your best option. However, if you are looking for an effective solution that will save you time and money, Cryonite is an excellent option.
If you are looking to learn more about the differences between Cryonite and Heat treatments, read our article comparing the two treatments.