Bed Bugs: 7 Natural Solutions and Prevention

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Bed bugs can turn your nights into a nightmare and are particularly difficult to eliminate.
Fortunately, there are natural solutions to get rid of them effectively without resorting to harsh chemicals.
This guide offers proven methods to eliminate these pests and prevent their return.


How to know if you have bed bugs?


Bed bugs are discreet but leave several telltale signs of their presence.
Here are the main signs of an infestation:

  • Red bites on the skin: often grouped or aligned, they cause intense itching.
  • Small black spots on sheets and mattresses: these are droppings left by the bugs.
  • Presence of shed skins and eggs: bed bugs molt and leave behind exuviae (shells of their old skin).
  • Unusual odor: an advanced infestation may emit a slightly sweet and unpleasant smell.
  • Direct observation: look for bugs in the seams of the mattress, cracks in the bed, and baseboards.

If you observe several of these signs, it is crucial to act quickly to prevent a massive spread.

 bed bug bite photo


What are the best natural solutions against bed bugs?


- Diatomaceous earth: a powerful natural insecticide

Diatomaceous earth is made up of the microscopic shells of dead algae called diatoms.
These "skeletons" of diatoms are sharp and form a soft rock.
When ground into powder, it has abrasive, absorbent, and insecticidal properties.

Diatomaceous earth is an eco-friendly and natural solution to fight bed bugs while being safe for humans and pets.
Unlike chemical insecticides, its action is indirect but highly effective.

Why does diatomaceous earth work?

This natural powder works by causing tiny cuts on the bed bug's exoskeletons, leading to dehydration and death within about 24 to 48 hours.
If some bugs manage to escape the trap, they carry the powder to their peers, helping to eradicate the entire colony.

How to use diatomaceous earth against bed bugs?

  • Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the bed, baseboards, cracks, and corners where the bugs hide.
    Let it sit for 24 to 48 hours before vacuuming.
    Repeat several times to eliminate the entire colony.

⚠️ Precaution: use only food-grade diatomaceous earth (non-calcined) to avoid any health risks.

→ Diatomaceous earth bed bugs (aff)

how to kill bedbugs

- Steam cleaning: a radical solution

Heat is a powerful enemy of bed bugs, which cannot survive temperatures above 50°C (122°F ).

Application method:

Use a high-temperature steam cleaner (minimum 100°C / 212°F) on your mattress, sofa, carpets, and curtains.
Slowly pass the steam into all corners to kill bed bugs and eggs.
Repeat the process twice a week for maximum efficiency.

- High-temperature washing: an essential reflex

Fabrics can harbor many insects and eggs.
Therefore, it is essential to treat them properly.

Steps to follow:

  • Wash all your sheets, clothes, and curtains infested at a minimum of 60°C (140°F).
  • Dry them at high temperature to eliminate any trace of bed bugs.
  • For delicate fabrics, place them in the freezer for 72 hours to kill the insects with cold.

- Bed bug-proof covers: an effective protective barrier

Bed bug-proof covers prevent these pests from infesting and hiding in your mattress and pillows.

Usage tips:

  • Choose a certified bed bug-proof cover (aff).
    Seal the cover tightly to trap any possible bed bugs.
    Leave it in place for at least a year to ensure the insects inside are dead.

- Sticky traps and other mechanical solutions

Traps are a great way to capture bed bugs and monitor their presence.

Effective options:

  • Place sticky pads at the foot of the bed (aff).
  • Use CO₂ traps, which mimic human breathing and attract bed bugs.
  • Place a dish of diatomaceous earth under the bed feet to trap insects trying to climb.

how do i get rid of bed bugs




How to get rid of bed bugs in laundry?


Bed bugs can hide in your laundry, especially if they are unable to bite you directly.
They particularly enjoy dirty clothes.
To eliminate these intruders, follow these simple yet effective steps:

Necessary materials:

Hermetic garbage bags

Steps to follow:

  • Wrap the laundry: Place your clothes in tightly sealed garbage bags to prevent bed bugs from escaping.
  • Treat the laundry at high temperature: Wash the clothes in the machine at 60°C (140°F) minimum or dry them in the dryer at a high temperature.
    This kills both adult bugs and their eggs.
  • For delicate items: If certain fabrics cannot withstand the heat, place the bags in the freezer for a week for a radical treatment.
  • Prevent reinfestation: Do not remove clothes from the bags until you have fully treated your home. This limits the risk of spreading.

How to prevent bed bugs in the house?


To protect your interior and eradicate bed bugs, diatomaceous earth is an effective solution.
Here’s how to proceed:

Necessary materials:

  • 600g to 1kg of diatomaceous earth (depending on the area to treat)
  • A spatula to access corners
  • A screwdriver
  • An FFP1 mask (to avoid inhaling the powder)
  • A diatomaceous earth sprayer (optional but practical)

Steps to follow:

  • Protect yourself: Wear a mask to avoid breathing in diatomaceous earth, which can be irritating when applied.
  • Apply diatomaceous earth: Sprinkle a thin layer of powder in all areas where the bugs may hide: baseboards, floor cracks, furniture corners, behind outlets and switches.
  • Access hard-to-reach areas: Use a spatula to push the powder into tight spaces, like under baseboards or in grooves.
  • Use a screwdriver to remove outlets and switches, and drop a tablespoon of diatomaceous earth inside.
  • Make application easier: If possible, use a diatomaceous earth sprayer for even and fast distribution (aff).

how to get rid of bed bugs quickly




How to prevent a new infestation?


Once the bed bugs are eliminated, it is essential to adopt preventive measures to avoid a new invasion.

  • Vacuum your mattress, baseboards, and furniture frequently to eliminate any eggs.
  • Avoid clutter: bed bugs love hiding in accumulated items.
  • Be vigilant after traveling: inspect your luggage and clothes before returning home.
  • Use protective covers on your mattress and pillows to limit risks.
  • Don’t pick up second-hand furniture without thoroughly inspecting it.

Why do bed bugs often come back?


Bed bugs are resilient insects, capable of surviving for several months without feeding.
Incomplete eradication or the presence of eggs that were not eliminated can cause a new infestation.

The main reasons for a recurrence:

  • Forgetting certain hiding spots during treatment.
  • Presence of eggs that can hatch after the initial cleaning.
  • Introduction of new bed bugs via clothes, luggage, or furniture.

What to do in case of recurrence?

If bed bugs return despite your efforts, strengthen your methods:

  • Repeat natural treatments several times to target new generations.
  • Combine steam cleaning, high-temperature washing, and diatomaceous earth for a comprehensive action.
  • Consider professional help if the infestation becomes uncontrollable.

By following these tips and staying vigilant, you’ll enjoy peaceful nights without bed bugs!




A home without bed bugs: Mission accomplished


With diatomaceous earth as your natural ally, you have a simple, eco-friendly, and effective solution to eradicate bed bugs.

By applying the strategies described in this guide, you can treat your home safely, protect your bedding, and avoid a new infestation.

Adopt these proven methods and enjoy a healthy, pest-free environment for you and your family.


Frequently asked questions about bed bugs


What attracts bed bugs?

As for the mosquito, the bug is attracted by the carbon dioxide (CO2) that the person releases.
But it also loves smells, heat, and vibrations.
It often targets an isolated individual at the start of the infestation to finally attack all the sleepers to feed.

An invasion of bed bugs in my house, why?

Stink bugs seek warmth in the fall.
They readily hide on mattresses, underpaintings, under rugs, and in window frames.
In the spring, they try to flee your home to ensure their reproduction.

Should I disinfect my laundry if I have bedbugs?

There is no need to disinfect your laundry if you have bed bugs.
Washing is also not very useful.
Just run your dryer on high heat for 30 minutes to get rid of bedbugs.

Do bedbugs live in clothes?

As a general rule, no, they do not remain in the clothes.
Just as they can't sting you through those same clothes.
The bedbug is looking for breath more than tissue.
It stalks you when you sleep.




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Marie

"Natural health is essential to me; I've always relied on natural remedies alongside traditional medicine."

Disclaimer
"The content of this article is not intended to replace medical advice or any treatment."

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