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Can Bed Bugs Live On Plastic Mattresses

Can Bed Bugs Live On Plastic Mattresses

Written by: Daniel Connell · Updated on: January 19, 2024

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Key Takeaways

Did you know that plastic mattress covers can effectively prevent bed bugs from infesting your mattress? Vinyl and polyurethane covers create a barrier that traps bed bugs inside, preventing them from biting or escaping. These covers can suffocate and trap bed bugs, ultimately causing them to die over time. It is recommended to leave the covers on for at least two years for complete elimination, but professional consultation is advised for full eradication.

Plastic mattress encasements with tight seals and reinforced seams are especially effective in creating a barrier that traps bed bugs inside. This can further minimize infestation risks when used in conjunction with regular inspection and maintenance. However, it's important to note that plastic mattress covers alone may not offer complete protection against bed bugs infesting other areas of the home. Regular inspection of living spaces and taking necessary precautions is still crucial in preventing infestations.

In addition, vinyl covers are waterproof and easy to clean, while polyurethane covers are breathable and hypoallergenic. So, whether you choose vinyl or polyurethane, both options offer practical benefits in controlling bed bug infestations. Overall, using certified bed bug-proof encasements for your mattress can be an effective way to protect against bed bug infestations and ensure a good night's sleep.

Are Vinyl Or Polyurethane Mattress Covers Better For Preventing Bed Bugs?

When it comes to preventing bed bugs, both vinyl and polyurethane mattress covers can be effective options. These covers create a barrier between your mattress and any potential bed bug infestations, making it difficult for the bugs to access your sleeping area.

Vinyl mattress covers are a popular choice for their durability and affordability. They are made from a strong, waterproof material that is resistant to tears and punctures, making it hard for bed bugs to penetrate. Additionally, vinyl covers are easy to clean, which can help keep your mattress free from dirt, dust, and other allergens that could attract bed bugs.

Polyurethane mattress covers, on the other hand, are made from a soft, flexible material that conforms to the shape of your mattress. This can help create a tight seal around the edges of your mattress, preventing bed bugs from finding their way inside. Polyurethane covers are also waterproof and resistant to tears and punctures, making them a reliable option for protecting your mattress from bed bugs.

Ultimately, both vinyl and polyurethane mattress covers can be effective in preventing bed bugs. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference, as well as the specific needs of your mattress and sleeping environment. By investing in a high-quality mattress cover, you can help protect yourself and your family from the dangers of bed bugs and enjoy a more comfortable, restful night's sleep.

Can Bed Bugs Bite Through A Plastic Mattress Cover?

No, they can't. Plastic mattress covers are designed to be non-porous and hole-free, preventing bed bugs from seeping through. However, it's crucial to choose a cover that wraps around the entire mattress and has a zip to stop bed bugs from escaping.

These covers work by trapping bed bugs and suffocating them. If your mattress is already infested, the cover will trap the bugs and starve them. It's essential to leave the cover on for at least two years to ensure the bed bugs die, as they can survive for up to five days without oxygen.

While a plastic mattress cover is an effective tool in preventing bed bug bites and controlling an existing infestation, it's not a standalone solution. You should also consult a professional if you're concerned about an infestation or have already been bitten by bed bugs. Professionals can help you seal off entry points, steam clean the area, dispose of infested items, regularly vacuum, wash bedding and clothing in hot water, and monitor the area after treatment.

In summary, a plastic mattress cover is a vital part of preventing and controlling bed bug infestations, but it should be used in conjunction with other control measures.

A rotated mattress, much like rotated tires, typically wears more evenly and reduces indentions or support issues.

Can Bed Bugs Get Through The Zipper Or Seams On A Plastic Mattress Encasement?

To effectively remove bed bug stains from your mattress covers, you need to act fast and use the right products. Enzyme-based cleaners and peroxide-ammonia mixtures are the best options for this task.

For fresh light stains, use cold water to pre-treat the area. For heavier, dried stains, you'll need to pre-treat with enzymes that target the proteins in the bed bug excrement and fluids.

A mixture of 3% peroxide and ammonia can lift stubborn stains when applied to dampened areas with a microfiber cloth. However, be careful not to leave this reactive solution on the fabric for more than 15 minutes to avoid damaging the fibers.

If the stain persists, you can try using borax, a mild abrasive, to lift the residue. Gently rub a fine layer of borax into the blemishes with a clean terry cloth. If borax fails, you can scrub the area with cold water and soap no more than twice to avoid fading or deformation.

White vinegar or enzymatic cleaners can also break down the waste effectively. Leave the cleaner on the stains for 10 minutes or longer, then top it with baking soda for 7-8 hours to draw out remaining particles before vacuuming. This will restore your fabric and give you peace of mind.

Remember, timely attention and the right cleaners can help you remove bed bug stains from your mattress covers without any hassle.

Do Plastic Mattress Covers Really Keep Bed Bugs Out?

Plastic mattress covers can effectively keep bed bugs out, but only if they are properly sealed and have no openings, gaps, or tears for the bugs to escape through. To ensure maximum protection, you should regularly inspect the cover for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary. However, using a plastic mattress cover alone may not prevent bed bugs from infesting other areas of your home, such as furniture, carpets, and curtains.

To protect against bed bugs at Hidden Mountain Resort, guests should inspect the room upon arrival for signs of bed bugs, such as live bugs, shed skins, or fecal spots on the mattress, bedding, and furniture. Luggage should be stored off the floor and away from the bed, preferably on a luggage rack or in the bathroom. If bed bugs are found in the room, guests should notify the resort staff immediately and request a different room or accommodation.

To prevent bringing bed bugs home, you should take precautions such as inspecting luggage and belongings before leaving and washing clothes in hot water upon returning home. While plastic mattress covers can help prevent bed bugs from infesting the mattress, they may not protect against bed bugs in other areas of your home. It is essential to be proactive in inspecting living spaces and taking necessary precautions to prevent bed bug infestations.

Do You Need Both A Mattress And Box Spring Cover To Fully Protect From Bed Bugs?

Yes, bed bugs can live on plastic mattresses. They can adapt to various environments, including plastic surfaces. Although they prefer fabric-covered mattresses due to warmth and easy access to a food source, bed bugs will make a home out of any environment that provides shelter and hosts a food source.

Do you need both a mattress and box spring cover to fully protect from bed bugs?

Using both a mattress and box spring cover is highly recommended for complete protection against bed bugs. Mattress covers specifically designed for bed bug protection have been proven effective in preventing infestations. These covers are made of a tight-knit fabric that prevents bed bugs from entering or escaping the mattress. Similarly, box spring covers can provide additional protection against these pests. By encasing both the mattress and box spring in protective covers, you create a barrier that traps any existing bed bugs within the mattress or box spring and prevents them from escaping or biting.

To minimize the risk of bed bug infestations, regularly inspect your bed and surrounding areas for signs of these pests. Look for small, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed, dark spots or streaks on sheets (which could be bed bug excrement), and shed skins. If you notice any of these signs during a hotel stay, notify the staff immediately. When returning home from a trip, inspect your luggage and clothing before bringing them inside, and wash all clothing in hot water and dry on high heat to eliminate any potential bed bug hitchhikers.

By combining the use of mattress and box spring covers with regular inspections and proper laundry practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of a bed bug infestation in your home.

Is It Worth Spending More On Thicker And More Durable Plastic Mattress Covers For Bed Bug Prevention?

Yes, it is worth spending more on thicker and more durable plastic mattress covers for bed bug prevention. Bed bugs can survive for up to 5 days without oxygen, making it crucial to have a cover that can trap and suffocate them effectively. A bed bug mattress cover, or encasement, forms an impenetrable seal around the mattress, making it difficult for bugs to crawl inside.

However, not all mattress covers are created equal, and certain features are necessary for effective bed bug prevention. The cover must be made of strong material that fully encloses all six sides of the mattress, and zippers should have some sort of protection to prevent bed bugs from crawling through the cracks.

Plastic mattress covers work by trapping and suffocating bed bugs, but they won't prevent bugs from other areas of the house. Some plastic covers aren't designed to wrap around the entire mattress, allowing bed bugs to find their way out and bite you in your sleep. Regular inspection of the cover for rips and tears is necessary to maintain its effectiveness.

A mattress cover is just one part of a comprehensive approach to bed bug prevention, and other measures should also be taken to protect the rest of your home. By investing in a thicker and more durable plastic mattress cover, you're taking a proactive step in preventing bed bugs from infesting your mattress and ultimately, your home.

Investing in a high-quality mattress cover is a smart move for anyone looking to protect their mattress from bed bugs. It's essential to choose a cover that is made of strong material, fully encloses the mattress, and has protected zippers. Regular inspections and a comprehensive approach to bed bug prevention will further protect your home from these pesky pests.

What Kind Of Plastic Is Best For Encasing A Mattress To Prevent Bed Bugs?

Putting a plastic cover on a mattress with bed bugs can help kill them, but it's not an immediate solution. The cover works by trapping the bed bugs within the mattress, cutting them off from their food supply, and eventually leading to their death due to starvation. However, bed bugs can survive without food for several days, and some can live up to 6 months without food, so it may take some time for them to die off completely.

To maximize the effectiveness of the plastic cover, make sure it's a full encasement that wraps around the entire mattress, including the underside, and is sealed with a zip. If the cover does not fully encase the mattress, bed bugs may find their way out to feed. The cover should be made of a non-porous material that does not allow bugs to crawl through, effectively preventing new bed bugs from infesting the mattress.

Using a plastic cover should be part of a comprehensive bed bug control strategy. Regularly inspecting for signs of bed bugs, sealing off potential entry points, washing clothes and bedding in hot water after a trip, inspecting used furniture before bringing it home, and contacting a professional exterminator if necessary are all important steps to take.

Once a plastic cover is installed on a bed bug-infested mattress, it is recommended to leave it on for a minimum of two years to ensure all bugs and eggs are dead. If the mattress needs to be replaced during this time, the plastic cover should be thoroughly washed at 140 °F before transferring it to the new mattress to kill any remaining bed bugs and eggs.

Will Putting A Plastic Cover On A Mattress With Bed Bugs Kill Them?

Putting a plastic cover on a mattress with bed bugs can help kill them, but it's not an immediate solution. The cover works by trapping the bed bugs within the mattress, cutting them off from their food supply, and eventually leading to their death due to starvation. However, bed bugs can survive without food for several days, and some can live up to 6 months without food, so it may take some time for them to die off completely.

To maximize the effectiveness of the plastic cover, make sure it's a full encasement that wraps around the entire mattress, including the underside, and is sealed with a zip. If the cover does not fully encase the mattress, bed bugs may find their way out to feed. The cover should be made of a non-porous material that does not allow bugs to crawl through, effectively preventing new bed bugs from infesting the mattress.

Using a plastic cover should be part of a comprehensive bed bug control strategy. Regularly inspecting for signs of bed bugs, sealing off potential entry points, washing clothes and bedding in hot water after a trip, inspecting used furniture before bringing it home, and contacting a professional exterminator if necessary are all important steps to take.

Once a plastic cover is installed on a bed bug-infested mattress, it is recommended to leave it on for a minimum of two years to ensure all bugs and eggs are dead. If the mattress needs to be replaced during this time, the plastic cover should be thoroughly washed at 140 °F before transferring it to the new mattress to kill any remaining bed bugs and eggs.

Can Bed Bugs Spread From Discarded Furniture Left Outside In The Summer?

Bed bugs can indeed spread from discarded furniture left outside in the summer. While they primarily live indoors, they can survive outdoors under certain conditions. They prefer dark, warm, and hidden spaces near their food source - human blood. Outdoor structures like pergolas, fences, woodpiles, and general lawn clutter can provide suitable hiding spots for bed bugs.

Bed bugs can withstand colder temperatures, but not below -18°C, and they can survive without food for up to a year. However, they can't survive in water for long, and rains pose a danger to their lives if their outdoor hiding place fills with water. Heat can kill bed bugs, but outdoor temperatures rarely reach the necessary levels.

Bed bugs can travel large distances - about 20 feet per night - by walking or hitchhiking. They can find themselves outdoors by being thrown away along with old and infested items or falling off from the person or item they were hitchhiking on. They can also be brought to a property by buying second-hand garden furniture, cushions, or throw-overs for outside sofas.

To prevent bed bug infestation, it's recommended to leave bags outdoors overnight after traveling, wash clothes immediately after coming home from a trip, inspect second-hand furniture for bed bugs before bringing it inside your home, never throw away infested items without treating them first, maintain home cleanliness, keep clutter around the bed to a minimum, and be vigilant around the bed area. It's advised not to pick up discarded items on the street as they may be infested with bed bugs. If there is a suspected bed bug infestation, it's recommended to call professional exterminators.

Are There Better And More Effective Alternatives To Using Hand Sanitizer For Killing And Preventing Bed Bugs?

Hand sanitizer may temporarily kill bed bugs, but it's not a reliable long-term solution. The EPA recommends an Integrated Pest Management approach, which includes environmental modification, reducing clutter, and targeted treatments. Regular cleaning and vacuuming can prevent infestations. Steam, heat, or freezing treatments can kill bed bugs in items that can't be washed or dried. However, raising indoor temperature or using home freezers won't do the trick.

Lysol laundry sanitizer can eliminate bed bugs on clothing and bedding. UV-C and ozone sanitizers are alternatives that may work. Diatomaceous Earth (DE), a non-toxic powder, is highly effective against bed bugs. For severe infestations, professional pest control services like Terminix, Orkin, and Truly Nolen can help. They conduct thorough inspections and use targeted treatments like chemical sprays, heat treatments, steam, or vacuuming.

Eradicating bed bug infestations often requires multiple treatments and follow-up inspections. Be patient and persistent, and remember that hand sanitizer isn't a long-term solution. A combination of environmental modification, targeted treatments, and professional help is necessary for effective bed bug control.

Additional Content:

About X

X is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, Huffington Post, Washington Post, AskMen, and She Knows. X has personally tested over 268+ mattresses and hundreds of pillows, sheets, beds, and other sleep products.

See Our #1 Researched Mattress in 2024

Rated best for comfort and hotel-feel

Get 450$ OFF Mattresses

References

Can Bed Bugs Live On Plastic Mattresses

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Did you know that plastic mattress covers can effectively prevent bed bugs from infesting your mattress? Vinyl and polyurethane covers create a barrier that traps bed bugs inside, preventing them from biting or escaping. These covers can suffocate and trap bed bugs, ultimately causing them to die over time. It is recommended to leave the covers on for at least two years for complete elimination, but professional consultation is advised for full eradication.

Plastic mattress encasements with tight seals and reinforced seams are especially effective in creating a barrier that traps bed bugs inside. This can further minimize infestation risks when used in conjunction with regular inspection and maintenance. However, it's important to note that plastic mattress covers alone may not offer complete protection against bed bugs infesting other areas of the home. Regular inspection of living spaces and taking necessary precautions is still crucial in preventing infestations.

In addition, vinyl covers are waterproof and easy to clean, while polyurethane covers are breathable and hypoallergenic. So, whether you choose vinyl or polyurethane, both options offer practical benefits in controlling bed bug infestations. Overall, using certified bed bug-proof encasements for your mattress can be an effective way to protect against bed bug infestations and ensure a good night's sleep.

Are Vinyl Or Polyurethane Mattress Covers Better For Preventing Bed Bugs?

When it comes to preventing bed bugs, both vinyl and polyurethane mattress covers can be effective options. These covers create a barrier between your mattress and any potential bed bug infestations, making it difficult for the bugs to access your sleeping area.

Vinyl mattress covers are a popular choice for their durability and affordability. They are made from a strong, waterproof material that is resistant to tears and punctures, making it hard for bed bugs to penetrate. Additionally, vinyl covers are easy to clean, which can help keep your mattress free from dirt, dust, and other allergens that could attract bed bugs.

Polyurethane mattress covers, on the other hand, are made from a soft, flexible material that conforms to the shape of your mattress. This can help create a tight seal around the edges of your mattress, preventing bed bugs from finding their way inside. Polyurethane covers are also waterproof and resistant to tears and punctures, making them a reliable option for protecting your mattress from bed bugs.

Ultimately, both vinyl and polyurethane mattress covers can be effective in preventing bed bugs. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference, as well as the specific needs of your mattress and sleeping environment. By investing in a high-quality mattress cover, you can help protect yourself and your family from the dangers of bed bugs and enjoy a more comfortable, restful night's sleep.

Can Bed Bugs Bite Through A Plastic Mattress Cover?

No, they can't. Plastic mattress covers are designed to be non-porous and hole-free, preventing bed bugs from seeping through. However, it's crucial to choose a cover that wraps around the entire mattress and has a zip to stop bed bugs from escaping.

These covers work by trapping bed bugs and suffocating them. If your mattress is already infested, the cover will trap the bugs and starve them. It's essential to leave the cover on for at least two years to ensure the bed bugs die, as they can survive for up to five days without oxygen.

While a plastic mattress cover is an effective tool in preventing bed bug bites and controlling an existing infestation, it's not a standalone solution. You should also consult a professional if you're concerned about an infestation or have already been bitten by bed bugs. Professionals can help you seal off entry points, steam clean the area, dispose of infested items, regularly vacuum, wash bedding and clothing in hot water, and monitor the area after treatment.

In summary, a plastic mattress cover is a vital part of preventing and controlling bed bug infestations, but it should be used in conjunction with other control measures.

Can Bed Bugs Get Through The Zipper Or Seams On A Plastic Mattress Encasement?

To effectively remove bed bug stains from your mattress covers, you need to act fast and use the right products. Enzyme-based cleaners and peroxide-ammonia mixtures are the best options for this task.

For fresh light stains, use cold water to pre-treat the area. For heavier, dried stains, you'll need to pre-treat with enzymes that target the proteins in the bed bug excrement and fluids.

A mixture of 3% peroxide and ammonia can lift stubborn stains when applied to dampened areas with a microfiber cloth. However, be careful not to leave this reactive solution on the fabric for more than 15 minutes to avoid damaging the fibers.

If the stain persists, you can try using borax, a mild abrasive, to lift the residue. Gently rub a fine layer of borax into the blemishes with a clean terry cloth. If borax fails, you can scrub the area with cold water and soap no more than twice to avoid fading or deformation.

White vinegar or enzymatic cleaners can also break down the waste effectively. Leave the cleaner on the stains for 10 minutes or longer, then top it with baking soda for 7-8 hours to draw out remaining particles before vacuuming. This will restore your fabric and give you peace of mind.

Remember, timely attention and the right cleaners can help you remove bed bug stains from your mattress covers without any hassle.

Do Plastic Mattress Covers Really Keep Bed Bugs Out?

Plastic mattress covers can effectively keep bed bugs out, but only if they are properly sealed and have no openings, gaps, or tears for the bugs to escape through. To ensure maximum protection, you should regularly inspect the cover for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary. However, using a plastic mattress cover alone may not prevent bed bugs from infesting other areas of your home, such as furniture, carpets, and curtains.

To protect against bed bugs at Hidden Mountain Resort, guests should inspect the room upon arrival for signs of bed bugs, such as live bugs, shed skins, or fecal spots on the mattress, bedding, and furniture. Luggage should be stored off the floor and away from the bed, preferably on a luggage rack or in the bathroom. If bed bugs are found in the room, guests should notify the resort staff immediately and request a different room or accommodation.

To prevent bringing bed bugs home, you should take precautions such as inspecting luggage and belongings before leaving and washing clothes in hot water upon returning home. While plastic mattress covers can help prevent bed bugs from infesting the mattress, they may not protect against bed bugs in other areas of your home. It is essential to be proactive in inspecting living spaces and taking necessary precautions to prevent bed bug infestations.

Do You Need Both A Mattress And Box Spring Cover To Fully Protect From Bed Bugs?

Yes, bed bugs can live on plastic mattresses. They can adapt to various environments, including plastic surfaces. Although they prefer fabric-covered mattresses due to warmth and easy access to a food source, bed bugs will make a home out of any environment that provides shelter and hosts a food source.

Do you need both a mattress and box spring cover to fully protect from bed bugs?

Using both a mattress and box spring cover is highly recommended for complete protection against bed bugs. Mattress covers specifically designed for bed bug protection have been proven effective in preventing infestations. These covers are made of a tight-knit fabric that prevents bed bugs from entering or escaping the mattress. Similarly, box spring covers can provide additional protection against these pests. By encasing both the mattress and box spring in protective covers, you create a barrier that traps any existing bed bugs within the mattress or box spring and prevents them from escaping or biting.

To minimize the risk of bed bug infestations, regularly inspect your bed and surrounding areas for signs of these pests. Look for small, reddish-brown insects about the size of an apple seed, dark spots or streaks on sheets (which could be bed bug excrement), and shed skins. If you notice any of these signs during a hotel stay, notify the staff immediately. When returning home from a trip, inspect your luggage and clothing before bringing them inside, and wash all clothing in hot water and dry on high heat to eliminate any potential bed bug hitchhikers.

By combining the use of mattress and box spring covers with regular inspections and proper laundry practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of a bed bug infestation in your home.

Is It Worth Spending More On Thicker And More Durable Plastic Mattress Covers For Bed Bug Prevention?

Yes, it is worth spending more on thicker and more durable plastic mattress covers for bed bug prevention. Bed bugs can survive for up to 5 days without oxygen, making it crucial to have a cover that can trap and suffocate them effectively. A bed bug mattress cover, or encasement, forms an impenetrable seal around the mattress, making it difficult for bugs to crawl inside.

However, not all mattress covers are created equal, and certain features are necessary for effective bed bug prevention. The cover must be made of strong material that fully encloses all six sides of the mattress, and zippers should have some sort of protection to prevent bed bugs from crawling through the cracks.

Plastic mattress covers work by trapping and suffocating bed bugs, but they won't prevent bugs from other areas of the house. Some plastic covers aren't designed to wrap around the entire mattress, allowing bed bugs to find their way out and bite you in your sleep. Regular inspection of the cover for rips and tears is necessary to maintain its effectiveness.

A mattress cover is just one part of a comprehensive approach to bed bug prevention, and other measures should also be taken to protect the rest of your home. By investing in a thicker and more durable plastic mattress cover, you're taking a proactive step in preventing bed bugs from infesting your mattress and ultimately, your home.

Investing in a high-quality mattress cover is a smart move for anyone looking to protect their mattress from bed bugs. It's essential to choose a cover that is made of strong material, fully encloses the mattress, and has protected zippers. Regular inspections and a comprehensive approach to bed bug prevention will further protect your home from these pesky pests.

What Kind Of Plastic Is Best For Encasing A Mattress To Prevent Bed Bugs?

The best plastic for encasing a mattress to prevent bed bugs is durable, breathable, and has a secure zipper. Polyester or cotton materials are ideal for bed bug mattress covers. Vinyl covers are not recommended as they are not breathable and tend to rip easily. The zipper on the encasement should have additional protective features like a Velcro flap, zip-tie, tape, or extra material to completely seal in the bugs.

Quality mattress encasements should also prevent bed bugs from crawling through the zipper's teeth and have reinforcement around the small gap where the zipper opens and closes. Some recommended mattress encasements include the SafeRest encasement and the Protect-A-Bed AllerZip Smooth Mattress Encasement.

Mattress encasements do not prevent an infestation or exterminate bed bugs on contact. For maximum protection, consider getting box spring encasements and pillow encasements as well. Regularly check the encasement for tears, especially around corners and hard edges, to maintain its effectiveness. By investing in the right type of plastic encasement and monitoring its condition, you can significantly reduce the risk of a bed bug infestation in your home.

Will Putting A Plastic Cover On A Mattress With Bed Bugs Kill Them?

Putting a plastic cover on a mattress with bed bugs can help kill them, but it's not an immediate solution. The cover works by trapping the bed bugs within the mattress, cutting them off from their food supply, and eventually leading to their death due to starvation. However, bed bugs can survive without food for several days, and some can live up to 6 months without food, so it may take some time for them to die off completely.

To maximize the effectiveness of the plastic cover, make sure it's a full encasement that wraps around the entire mattress, including the underside, and is sealed with a zip. If the cover does not fully encase the mattress, bed bugs may find their way out to feed. The cover should be made of a non-porous material that does not allow bugs to crawl through, effectively preventing new bed bugs from infesting the mattress.

Using a plastic cover should be part of a comprehensive bed bug control strategy. Regularly inspecting for signs of bed bugs, sealing off potential entry points, washing clothes and bedding in hot water after a trip, inspecting used furniture before bringing it home, and contacting a professional exterminator if necessary are all important steps to take.

Once a plastic cover is installed on a bed bug-infested mattress, it is recommended to leave it on for a minimum of two years to ensure all bugs and eggs are dead. If the mattress needs to be replaced during this time, the plastic cover should be thoroughly washed at 140 °F before transferring it to the new mattress to kill any remaining bed bugs and eggs.

Can Bed Bugs Spread From Discarded Furniture Left Outside In The Summer?

Bed bugs can indeed spread from discarded furniture left outside in the summer. While they primarily live indoors, they can survive outdoors under certain conditions. They prefer dark, warm, and hidden spaces near their food source - human blood. Outdoor structures like pergolas, fences, woodpiles, and general lawn clutter can provide suitable hiding spots for bed bugs.

Bed bugs can withstand colder temperatures, but not below -18°C, and they can survive without food for up to a year. However, they can't survive in water for long, and rains pose a danger to their lives if their outdoor hiding place fills with water. Heat can kill bed bugs, but outdoor temperatures rarely reach the necessary levels.

Bed bugs can travel large distances - about 20 feet per night - by walking or hitchhiking. They can find themselves outdoors by being thrown away along with old and infested items or falling off from the person or item they were hitchhiking on. They can also be brought to a property by buying second-hand garden furniture, cushions, or throw-overs for outside sofas.

To prevent bed bug infestation, it's recommended to leave bags outdoors overnight after traveling, wash clothes immediately after coming home from a trip, inspect second-hand furniture for bed bugs before bringing it inside your home, never throw away infested items without treating them first, maintain home cleanliness, keep clutter around the bed to a minimum, and be vigilant around the bed area. It's advised not to pick up discarded items on the street as they may be infested with bed bugs. If there is a suspected bed bug infestation, it's recommended to call professional exterminators.

Are There Better And More Effective Alternatives To Using Hand Sanitizer For Killing And Preventing Bed Bugs?

Hand sanitizer may temporarily kill bed bugs, but it's not a reliable long-term solution. The EPA recommends an Integrated Pest Management approach, which includes environmental modification, reducing clutter, and targeted treatments. Regular cleaning and vacuuming can prevent infestations. Steam, heat, or freezing treatments can kill bed bugs in items that can't be washed or dried. However, raising indoor temperature or using home freezers won't do the trick.

Lysol laundry sanitizer can eliminate bed bugs on clothing and bedding. UV-C and ozone sanitizers are alternatives that may work. Diatomaceous Earth (DE), a non-toxic powder, is highly effective against bed bugs. For severe infestations, professional pest control services like Terminix, Orkin, and Truly Nolen can help. They conduct thorough inspections and use targeted treatments like chemical sprays, heat treatments, steam, or vacuuming.

Eradicating bed bug infestations often requires multiple treatments and follow-up inspections. Be patient and persistent, and remember that hand sanitizer isn't a long-term solution. A combination of environmental modification, targeted treatments, and professional help is necessary for effective bed bug control.