Bed Bugs Die at What Temperature?
Bed Bugs Die at What Temperature?
No one likes bed bugs, but few know that extreme temperatures can kill them. Bed bugs die when temperatures reach 46°C (115°F). They can also die when exposed to temperatures 0°C (32°F) or below for more than 90 minutes. Here are some ways to use these temperatures to help you fight off a bed bug infestation:
A Heat Treatment
A heat treatment is the most efficient way to kill bed bugs. This can be especially helpful if you are dealing with a severe infestation. The goal of the treatment is to reach temperatures above 46°C (115°F). This can be achieved by using specialized equipment, or by using simple items that you may already have in your home, such as:
- Space Heaters: These can be used in small spaces, such as apartments and small bedrooms.
- Hair Dryers: These can be used in smaller spaces, but will take much longer than a space heater.
- Clothes Dryers: These can be used for clothes and other linens, and will get the job done quickly.
A Cold Treatment
Unfortunately, a cold treatment for bed bugs isn’t as effective as a heat treatment. Bed bugs can survive temperatures 0°C (32°F) or below for up to 90 minutes. To kill them in this manner, temperatures should be maintained at or below 0°C (32°F) for longer than 90 minutes. This can be done with:
- Freezer: Many people opt to freeze their infested items in a freezer. This will take several hours, and care should be taken to ensure the temperature remains below 0°C (32°F) throughout the entire process.
- Air Conditioner: This method is not as effective as the freezer method and will take much longer. It should be done for longer periods of time to ensure that temperatures remain below 0°C (32°F) for more than 90 minutes.
If you discover a bed bug infestation in your home, it is important to take action quickly. Heat and cold treatments can be effective ways to help rid your home of these pesky pests. As always, be sure to take safety precautions with extreme temperatures.
