Bed bugs can cause a problem as they spread very easily, which means many people need to get rid of bed bugs. All it takes is a single contaminated item to touch a new area, and the bed bugs have spread before you know it.
According to the internet, there are multiple ways that people can try to get rid of bed bugs, but as you might expect with the internet – don’t believe everything you read!
1) Bed Bug Foggers (Bug Bombs)
One of the most shared ideas to get rid of bed bugs is the use of bed bug foggers, also known as bug bombs. The chemicals within these devices can cause issues for humans, and they are quite ineffective. The chemicals disperse across your room and push the bugs away, but with the bugs on the run there is no time for the chemicals to act to kill them. The result is that the bugs just come back.
2) Diatomaceous Earth
Another option is to use diatomaceous earth. This actually works but need to come into direct contact with the bugs. As the bugs can be anywhere in your room, you’ll need to cover everything from floor to ceiling to make sure the bugs are taken care of – and that can be a large job that is extremely messy.
3) Open Flame Heat
The third worst way to get rid of bed bugs that is shared online, is almost the best. It’s using heat, except it’s open flame heat. Diesel powered open flame heaters release toxic fumes into the room which can have a terrible effect on any human present, plus you have the possibility of burning the house down. It gets rid of the bugs…but you have no house left!
4) Double-Sided Tape
Slightly less messy is the idea to use double-sided tape. This needs to be everywhere (again this can be a tricky job) and while it may slow the progress of the bugs, it doesn’t catch or kill eggs because they don’t move. The eggs will just keep hatching and you won’t get rid of the bugs.
5) Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline)
One final suggestion from the internet involves petroleum jelly (Vaseline). Once again, cover your entire room for an ineffective mess – the bugs are supposed to get caught in the jelly, but as before, the eggs will still hatch. Alternatively, smear your entire body with Vaseline and sleep in it for 6 weeks. That’s supposed to stop the bugs getting to you…but still doesn’t kill them off!
The Absolute Best Way to Get Rid of Bed Bugs
Heat is the solution, but it should be provided with the right tools. Professional bed bug heat treatments will kill both bugs and eggs, won’t present a danger to human life, and won’t burn your house down. One of the best parts of using heat, is that you can get rid of bed bugs yourself by using a bed bug heater rental or hire a professional.
If you have any questions about bed bugs, stop chasing answers on the internet and call in the professionals. Erdye’s Pest Control is proud to offer Free bed bug inspections. All you have to do is simply call us at (920) 455-0373 and we will be happy to answer any questions you might have.