In the article
When people find bed bugs in their homes, they immediately wonder, “Can bed bugs survive the washing machine?”
Tossing your clothes in the wash might seem like an easy fix, but does it actually work? Let’s break it down.
Does a Standard Wash Kill Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are resilient, but they aren’t unbeatable.
A normal wash cycle can help, but it’s not a guaranteed solution. Bed bugs can survive if the water temperature isn’t hot enough. To ensure success, wash your items in hot soapy water. Aim for at least 60°C (140°F). Anything less, and those pests might live to crawl another day.
Do You Need Special Detergents to Kill Bed Bugs?
No. You don’t need any special detergents to kill bed bugs.
Regular detergent works just fine. Bed bugs aren’t resistant to soap, but what really matters is the heat. Make sure you set your washer to its hottest setting for the best results.
Can Bed Bugs Survive the Washing Machine?
Here’s where it gets tricky.
Some bed bugs might survive the washing process, especially if you’re using cooler water with a mild detergent on quick cycle. They could cling to clothes or even hide in the drum. That’s why heat and soapy water is your best weapon.
Bed bugs hate heat. Washing in hot water and using a high heat dryer afterwards is your best defence.
Can Bed Bugs Survive the Washing Machine
The Dryer is Your Best Friend
Still wondering, “Can bed bugs survive the washing machine?” Let’s talk about your dryer.
Bed bugs cannot survive the heat from a dryer. Tumble drying your clothes on high heat for 30 minutes will kill any bed bugs and their eggs. If you want to be absolutely sure, the dryer is where it’s at.
Tips to Prevent Bed Bugs from Spreading Through Laundry
To prevent bed bugs from spreading through your laundry:
- Bag up infested items before you move them. Seal them tight.
- Don’t overload your washing machine. Bed bugs can hide in folds of fabric.
- Wash and dry your clothes on high heat with soapy water.
- Clean the washing machine drum after each load to ensure no bed bugs are left behind.
Items You Can’t Wash
Not everything can go through the wash, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck.
For items like shoes, leather jackets, delicate fabrics, or electronics, you can use the freezer instead.
Here’s how:
- Seal the items in an airtight plastic bag. Make sure there’s no way for bed bugs to escape.
- Put the bag in your freezer for at least 4 days. Bed bugs can’t survive freezing temperatures for that long, so this method works well for non-washable items.
Place Shoes in the Freezer for 4 Days
Can Bed Bugs Survive on Bedding, Shoes, and Other Items?
Yes, bed bugs can cling to more than just clothes.
- Bedding: Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot soapy water. Stick to the rule—60°C (140°F) or higher.
- Shoes: Place them in the freezer for 4 days.
- Bags and luggage: If fabric, run them through the dryer. If not, wipe them down thoroughly with disenfectant.
What to Do If You Still Find Bed Bugs After Washing?
If bed bugs are still hanging around after all that, it’s time for a stronger solution.
That’s where our Bed Bug Barrier Isolation System comes in. It’s a DIY method that kills bed bugs instantly and provides long-term protection. Using a combination of steam and diatomaceous earth powder, it forces bed bugs to cross a deadly barrier.
And we guarantee it works.
DIY Video: Get Rid Of Bed Bugs Instantly & Long Term Guaranteed
Final Thoughts
So, can bed bugs survive the washing machine?
Only if you’re not cranking up the heat and using soapy water.
Follow these steps, use the dryer, and if you need a sure-fire solution, our Bed Bug Barrier Isolation System is here to help. It’s eco-friendly, easy to use, and guarantees you’ll get rid of bed bugs for good.
Frequently Asked Questions About “Can bed bugs survive the washing machine”
How Do I Clean My Washing Machine After Bed Bugs?
After washing infested items, it’s important to clean your washing machine to avoid bed bugs spreading. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Run an empty hot cycle: Set your machine to the hottest setting and run it with just hot soapy water.
- Wipe the drum and seals: After the cycle, use a damp cloth with soap to wipe down the drum, seals, and any crevices where bed bugs might hide.
- For extra protection, you can add a cup of white vinegar or baking soda during the empty wash to help disinfect.
This method ensures no bed bugs are left behind in your washing machine.
How Long Can Bed Bugs Live in Laundry?
Bed bugs can survive in laundry for many months without a feed.
- In clean clothes, bed bugs might survive up to 18 months if they have access to a food source (like you or your pets).
- In dirty laundry, it’s the same as clean clothes, approximately 18 months.
But the bottom line is, once clothes are washed in hot soapy water and dried at high heat, bed bugs won’t survive.
Can Bed Bugs Spread Through Laundry Machines?
Yes, bed bugs can spread through laundry machines, especially if proper care isn’t taken.
If you use cooler water, without soap or don’t dry on high heat, some bed bugs might survive the wash. Additionally, bed bugs can crawl into the drum or seals of washing machines and hide there.
To prevent spreading, always:
- Wash in hot soapy water on the hottest setting.
- Dry clothes on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Clean the machine afterward to remove any possible bugs.
By following these steps, you can prevent bed bugs from spreading through your laundry.
Are You Looking for an Organic DIY Treatment?
Watch Our DIY Treatment Video For An Ensemble Bed
Watch Our DIY Treatment Video For A Bed with Slats
If you have enjoyed our blog, “can bed bugs survive the washing machine you might like to read, Do Bed Bugs Live Inside Pillows?
Sources:
Oxford Academic (Perspectives on Biology and Management), National Library of Medicine (Clinical Relevance and Control Options)
Tony pioneered a non-toxic, eco-friendly solution for bedbug infestations. His innovation won the ABC TV show “The New Inventors” in 2009. In 2012, he successfully registered Diatomaceous Earth for bedbug control in Australia.
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