Can a Clothes Steamer Kill Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are a troublesome pest to deal with, as they can breed quickly and are difficult to eradicate. While steam cleaning is often used to rid clothing, carpets and upholstered furniture of bed bug infestations, it is uncertain if a clothes steamer can provide adequate heat to kill the bugs.
The Heat Theory
The effectiveness of a clothes steamer in killing bed bugs depends primarily on the temperature that it is able to generate. The required temperature to kill bed bugs is at least 120°F (49°C), which is higher than most fabric steamers’ highest setting.
It is also important to consider the depth of penetration of the steam, as bugs may be hiding in cracks, crevices and other deep surfaces that the steam from a regular clothes steamer may not reach.
Safe Usage
To use a clothes steamer safely on infested fabrics:
- Ensure the bed bug steamer generates a temperature at least 120°F (49°C).
- Hold the clothing steamer 8-10 inches away from the surface as you move it, and pass the steam across the surface at least 3-4 times.
- Allow the fabric to cool before handling and ensure the humidity level is normalized.
- Wash and dry the fabric after steaming.
Precautionary Measures
It is usually preferable to use a professional bed bug eradication service as they have the right equipment to deliver appropriate temperatures, humidity levels and penetration. If a professional is not an option, renting a powerful steam cleaner might be a better choice than using a clothes steamer for dealing with a bed bug infestation, as the equipment may be able to generate sufficiently high temperatures to reach the bugs.
Regardless of the method used, all steps should be taken to ensure that the infestation has been completely eliminated and that the bed bug eggs are not viable.