How to Dispose of Bed Bugs: The Ultimate Guide to a Pest-Free Home

Let’s face it, bed bugs are a nightmare.

Tiny, blood-sucking pests that turn your home into a horror show.

And once they settle in, getting rid of them feels like an endless battle.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

I’m here to give you the real lowdown on how to dispose of bed bugs for good.

We’ll talk about what works, what’s a waste of time, and the stuff that might actually make things worse.

Ready to take control? Let’s jump in.

Effective Methods for Bed Bug Disposal

DIY vs. Professional Treatment

When it comes to bed bugs, you’ve got two choices: DIY it or call in the pros.

DIY Bed Bug Disposal Methods:

• Diatomaceous Earth (DE): This stuff is like kryptonite for bed bugs. Dust Bed Bug Killer powder around the edges of your room, bed frames, and wherever these critters hide. It cuts through their exoskeletons and dehydrates them. Simple, non-toxic, and super effective.
• Steam Treatment: Bed bugs can’t stand the heat. A good steam cleaner will kill them on contact. Just make sure you hit all the nooks and crannies—mattresses, carpets, furniture—the works.
• Heat Treatment: Crank up the heat! High temperatures (over 50°C) can kill bed bugs in all life stages. You can bag up clothes and bedding and toss them in the dryer on high heat.
• Washing: Washing clothes and other items in warm soapy water kills bed bugs.

Professional Bed Bug Disposal:

• Pest Control Services: Sometimes, DIY isn’t possible because of age or disabilty. Professionals have access to stronger, toxic insecticides and advanced methods.

Which One’s Better?

• DIY is great if you’re in a hurry, on a budget and you want to avoid toxic, unsafe chemicals. Plus, it’s a more eco-friendly option.
• Professionals are your go-to if you are elderly or disabled. They bring experience and specialized equipment to the table.

Bed Bug Bites: How to Find, Treat and Prevent Them Fast

Step-by-Step Guide to Disposing of Bed Bugs Safely and Permanently

Got your weapons ready? Here’s your game plan to dispose of bed bugs once and for all.

Step 1: Secure the Mattress

Cover your sleeping mattress with a mattress cover. This will trap and kill by starving them.

Step 2: Treat the Bed Frame

Use a Steamer to steam the entire bed frame to kill them instantly.

Dust the entire bed frame with Diatomaceous Earth (Bed Bug Killer powder) using a powder duster to kill bed bugs.

Step 3: Set Up Barriers or Tape

To protect yourself from bedbugs in the room, use our barriers:

Floor Barriers:

Place bed legs in the Floor Barrier, dusting powder inside the tray and barrier.

Barrier Tape:

For bed legs larger than 65mm, use our barrier tape and dust the powder around the bed leg and floor.

Keep your bed at least 30cm away from walls and other furniture.

Preventing Bed Bug Re-Infestation After Disposal

You’ve done the hard work—now let’s keep those bed bugs from ever coming back.

Tips for Long-Term Bed Bug Prevention:

• Install Bed Bug Barriers: These traps catch bed bugs trying to climb onto your bed. Simple, effective, and a great early warning system.
• Use Mattress Encasements: Bed bug-proof covers are a must. They prevent bugs from getting in or out.
• Diatomaceous Earth: Dust your bed frame with DE. This will kill bed bugs until you remove it.
• Regular Inspections: Every month, do a quick check of your home—especially around beds, couches, and baseboards.
• Be Cautious When Traveling: Bed bugs love to hitch rides. Inspect hotel rooms and avoid putting luggage on the floor.

Environmental and Health Considerations in Bed Bug Disposal

Not all bed bug disposal methods are created equal.

Some are safer for your health and the environment than others.

Safe and Eco-Friendly Options:

• Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Completely non-toxic. Safe around kids and pets. Just avoid breathing in the dust.
• Steam Cleaning: No chemicals, just hot steam. Perfect for those sensitive to insecticides.

What to Avoid:

• Chemical Sprays: These can be harmful, especially in homes with small children, pets, or those with allergies. Always read labels and use as directed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Disposing of Bed Bugs

When it comes to how to dispose of bed bugs, avoid these common pitfalls:

Top Mistakes:

• Not Treating All Areas: Bed bugs don’t just live in beds. They hide in cracks, crevices, and even electrical outlets.
• Improper Disposal of Infested Items: Don’t just toss them in the bin. Wrap them securely and label them to prevent spreading the infestation.
• Using Ineffective DIY Methods: Things like essential oils or ultrasonic devices are often touted as bed bug cures, but there’s little evidence they work.

Remember, the key to success is persistence and thoroughness.

Stay on top of it, keep your home clean and clutter-free, and those bed bugs won’t stand a chance.

And there you have it—how to dispose of bed bugs like a pro.

Time to take back your home and sleep easy again.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What should I throw away if I have bed bugs?
   You don’t need to throw anything away. Our method effectively kills bed bugs and their eggs without requiring the disposal of infested items. By using the Isolation Method you can eliminate the infestation while keeping all your belongings intact.
2. What is the protocol for getting rid of bed bugs?
   The protocol for getting rid of bed bugs involves using mattress covers, high-heat treatments like steaming, dusting applying Diatomaceous Earth, and setting up bed bug bed leg trap barriers.
3. Can bed bugs be destroyed?
   Yes, bed bugs can be destroyed using several methods, including mattress covers, steam, bed bug bed leg traps, and diatomaceous earth.
4. Should you throw out sheets after bed bugs?
   No. You do not need to throw out sheets after bed bugs; instead, you should wash them in hot water and dry them on high heat to kill any bed bugs or their eggs.

Are You Looking for an Organic DIY Treatment?

Watch Our DIY Video: How To Dispose Of Bed Bugs On An Ensemble Bed

Watch Our DIY Video: How To Dispose Of Bed Bugs On A Bed with Slats

If you have enjoyed our blog, “how to dispose of bed bugs”, you might like to read about how to complete a bed bug inspection.

Sources:

Health VIC (bedbugs pest control)