Do you ever wonder if bed bugs can be killed with bleach? The answer is YES. However, applying it safely presents several problems. Here, you’ll find out all you need to know about using bleach to get rid of this pest once and for all.
Does Bleach Kill Bed Bugs?
Bleach is a disinfectant which removes virus and dirt from any surface. It contains hypochlorite, an ingredient that kills bed bugs. It has a pH of 11 and breaks down proteins to render them defective. The answer to the question is YES, If the bleach makes direct contact with the bed bugs and their eggs, their bodies will absorb the acid, killing them slowly and not instantly.
While bleach will kill bed bugs and eggs that are directly exposed to it, it will not eliminate bed bugs that are hiding and do not come into contact with the bleach spray.
How to Use Bleach to Kill Bed Bugs
Knowing that bleach kills bed bugs puts you in the right direction on how to use bleach to kill the insect. Here are a few steps on how to use bleach to eliminate bed bugs from your home.
Necessary equipment for a complete bed bugs removal process;
- Bucket
- Flashlight
- Laundry detergent
- Liquid bleach
- Rubber utility gloves
- Spray bottle
- Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment
- Washcloths
- Washing machine
Directly applying the bleach to the bed bugs can eliminate them, but achieving direct contact with them is incredibly difficult as bed bugs are not attracted to bleach.
1. Examine the House Thoroughly
Use a flashlight to inspect the mattress, bed and any furniture carefully. Identify any location with bed bugs (dead or alive), their eggs, or husks or their fecal deposits. Before starting the cleaning process, clear out any trash and ensure all cracks and crevices are within reach.
2. Deep Clean the Home
First, throw all the sheets and blankets in the laundry as they are likely to carry bed bugs. Wash them with hot water, bleach and detergent; use maximum heat they can’t stand. Then use the vacuum cleaner on cushions, inside of drawers, mattress and any other furniture. Remove the vacuum bag, seal and dispose of it.
After the cleaning process, it is time to use the bleach. Mix hot water and bleach in a spray bottle. Spray liberally on affected furniture and mattress (including box spring, edges and bed corner), wearing rubber utility gloves to protect your hands.
For areas that can’t be sprayed. Dip a washcloth in your water-bleach mixture, then use it to reach areas like baseboards and insides of drawers.
3. Allow Things to Dry Properly
It is advised to wait 24 to 48 hours to allow everything to dry properly as bleach takes a few hours to effectively kill bed bugs.
4. Take Preventative Measures
Use these few preventive measures to avoid recurrence.
- Frequent cleaning
- Using protective covers on mattresses and box springs
- Seal cracks and crevices
- Install door sweeps on the bottom of doors
Do Bed Bugs Fly?
Bed Bugs do not fly or jump, but they can crawl very quickly over ceilings, walls or floor surfaces. Female bed bugs may lay hundreds of eggs, each of which is about the size of a speck of dust, over a lifetime.
The nymphs, which are the immature bed bugs, shed their skin five times before reaching maturity and require a blood meal before each shedding. The bug can develop fully and produce three or more generations per year under favorable conditions.
