Bed bugs are tiny pests that can make your nights miserable, and while they don't spread diseases, their bites can lead to irritation and sleepless nights. These bugs are small, flat insects that feed on blood. They are reddish-brown, wingless, and about the size of a Lincoln penny and their bite can cause itching and discomfort.
Bed bugs are good at hiding in tiny spaces and can go for months without feeding, making them tough to get rid of. They can hitch a ride in your luggage or clothing and show up in any home, no matter how clean it is.
Here are 7 ways to get rid of bedbugs and find a peaceful sleep:
Keep it clean: Vacuuming is a great first step. Regularly vacuum your mattress, carpets, and any areas where you suspect bed bugs might be hiding. The vacuum can suck up bugs and their eggs, helping to keep their numbers down. Just remember to empty the vacuum bag outside to prevent any bugs from escaping back into your home.
Wash and dry: Bed bugs hate heat. Wash your bedding, pillowcases, and any clothes that might be infested in hot water. Dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes. The heat will kill bed bugs and their eggs, so this is an effective way to tackle them.
Also see | Pest control: Most effective tips to keep your home pest-free when the monsoon brings them in
Diatomaceous earth (DE): It is a natural powder that can help get rid of bed bugs. It works by drying them out. Sprinkle food-grade DE around bed bug hotspots, like along baseboards and under furniture. Leave it for a few days before vacuuming it up. It’s safe for use around kids and pets, but try not to breathe in the dust.
Essential oils: These can repel bed bugs. Mix a few drops of lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on areas where bed bugs might be hiding. It won’t get rid of a big infestation but can help keep them away and leave your home smelling nice.
Heat trick: Use a steam cleaner on infested areas like mattress seams and upholstered furniture. Steam at temperatures above 130°F (54°C) will kill bed bugs and their eggs. This is an eco-friendly way to deal with them without using chemicals.
Seal the cracks: Bed bugs love to hide in tiny cracks and crevices. Seal up any gaps around baseboards, electrical outlets, and furniture with caulk or sealant. This will make it harder for bed bugs to spread and hide, helping you manage the problem better.
Use bug-proof covers: Protect your mattress with bed bug-proof covers. These covers trap bed bugs inside and prevent new ones from getting in. Make sure the covers are properly sealed. They can help keep your bed safe from future infestations and make it easier to spot any bed bugs that are still around.
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