Most of us have had to deal with bed bugs at some point in our lives and the task of getting rid of them can be daunting.
While there are many products on the market that promise to make your home bug-free few of them are actually effective.
One of the most effective solutions is using laundry detergent to kill bed bugs.
The Benefits of Using Laundry Detergent
When it comes to getting rid of bed bugs laundry detergent has a few advantages over other products.
First of all it’s readily available and won’t require you to go out and buy a special product.
Secondly it’s fairly inexpensive so it won’t break the bank.
Finally it’s relatively safe since most laundry detergents are non-toxic and biodegradable.
What Kind of Detergent Should You Use?
When it comes to choosing the right detergent for killing bed bugs it’s important to select one that contains enzymes.
These enzymes break down the proteins in the bed bug’s exoskeletons preventing them from reproducing or surviving.
You can find laundry detergents that contain enzymes at most stores.
How to Use Detergent to Kill Bed Bugs
Once you’ve chosen the right laundry detergent you’ll need to take a few steps to ensure the bugs are eliminated from your home.
The first step is to thoroughly wash all of your linens including mattress pads and sheets in hot water.
This will help kill any bed bugs already present on the linens.
Next you’ll need to spray the affected area with a mixture of detergent and water.
Make sure to saturate the area as this will help to get rid of any eggs or larvae that might be present.
Once the area is dry it’s important to vacuum to get rid of any remaining bugs.
Tips for Using Laundry Detergent to Kill Bed Bugs
When using laundry detergent to kill bed bugs it is important to follow the instructions on the packaging.
Generally you should use the detergent on all bedding including sheets pillowcases and blankets.
Scrub the fabric thoroughly and use hot water if possible.
If the infestation is severe consider using a steam cleaner.
Additionally laundering the bedding on a regular basis can help prevent future infestations.
The Bottom Line
Laundry detergent can be an effective way to get rid of bed bugs in your home.
By choosing a laundry detergent with enzymes and following the steps outlined here you can help keep your home bug-free.
With a bit of effort and diligence you can say goodbye to those pesky bed bugs and give your home a clean and healthy environment.