Do Bed Bugs Die in Dryer?
Do Bed Bugs Die in Dryer?
Bed bugs are pesky insects that can cause a lot of inconveniences. They feed on blood from sleeping humans and animals, and they can quickly multiply, making them hard to get rid of. One possible way to eliminate bed bugs could be to run them through a clothes dryer. So, do bed bugs die in a dryer?
Can Dry Heat Kill Bed Bugs?
Yes, high heat generated by a clothes dryer can be used to kill bed bugs. Bed bugs can’t survive temperatures over 113°F, so a hot dryer cycle can help eliminate them. Studies have shown that a dryer set to the highest settings can kill bed bugs in as little as 20 minutes, while lower temperatures may take 90 minutes or longer.
How to Kill Bed Bugs in a Dryer
To effectively kill bed bugs in a dryer, it’s important to follow the right steps:
- Sort Clothes: Sorting clothes is important to ensure that bed bugs aren’t spread from one garment to another. It’s best to wash and dry bed bug-infested garments separately from other clothes.
- Wash: Wash clothes in hot water (at least 120°F). This helps to loosen the bed bug and eggs before drying.
- Dry: Place the clothes in the dryer and set the temperature to the highest setting. Run the dryer on high heat for at least 90 minutes to ensure bed bugs are completely killed.
- Cool Down: When the 90 minutes are up, remove the clothes from the dryer and let them cool down before handling.
Other Tips for Killing Bed Bugs
Killing bed bugs in a dryer is one method, but there are other ways to get rid of these annoying pests. Consider these other steps:
- Vacuum Cleaning: Vacuuming can help get rid of bed bugs hiding in carpets, furniture, and other soft surfaces.
- Steam Cleaning: Steam cleaning with a handheld steamer can help kill bed bugs in carpets and on furniture. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.
- Follow Up Treatments: Follow up treatments may be needed to ensure all bed bugs are eliminated. These can include chemical sprays, diatomaceous earth, and other methods.
Conclusion
To get rid of bed bugs, running them through a clothes dryer can be an effective way to kill them. High dryer heat is lethal to bed bugs, and a hot dryer cycle of 90 minutes or more can help eliminate them. It’s also important to consider other treatments, such as vacuuming and steam cleaning, to ensure all bed bugs are gone.
