A: Good news for homeowners with bed bugs: Yes, bleach does kill bed bugs! However, it is very important to know how to use it safely and effectively. But in some cases, the problem can become too serious and needs to be addressed by professionals.
        Bleach is not just a powerful cleaner, it’s a powerful cleaner. It is also a powerful insecticide. It can kill various pests, including drain flies and mosquitoes. If you want to eradicate bed bugs from your home, here’s what you need to know about using bleach to get rid of these pests once and for all.
        According to Terminix, bleach is a sodium hypochlorite solution. It has a pH of 11 and breaks down proteins, making them defective. If bleach comes into direct contact with bed bugs and their eggs, their bodies absorb the acid, killing them.
        In addition to its harshness, bleach is also known for its strong odor, making it difficult for some people to use immediately or for extended periods of time. The fumes also interfere with the respiratory system of bed bugs, causing them to suffocate.
        Sodium hypochlorite, the active ingredient in bleach, denatures bed bugs’ protein membranes. This disables the bugs’ immune systems and causes a reaction similar to human fever, eventually killing them. This is especially effective when using bleach in the laundry room to kill bed bugs on sheets and clothes, as the heat immobilizes the bed bugs.
        For those who are sensitive to the smell of bleach, it may be tempting to dilute the bleach solution with more water. While this will make it easier for homeowners to deal with the smell, unfortunately it can have the same effect on bed bugs. Therefore, a solution that is too dilute will not be effective in killing bed bugs. A 1:1 hot water to bleach ratio is recommended to maximize the effectiveness of the bleach without causing discomfort to the user.
        Now that you know how bleach kills bed bugs, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Here’s how to get rid of bed bugs in your home.
        Use a flashlight to carefully inspect the bed, mattress, and any furniture. Look for bed bugs (dead or alive), eggs, droppings or husks. Before you start the cleaning process, remove all debris and make sure you have easy access to all nooks and crannies.
        First, wash your duvets and sheets, as they can harbor bed bugs. Wash with boiled water, bleach and detergent; when drying, use the highest possible temperature that they can withstand. Then vacuum mattresses, pillows, the inside of drawers, and any other furniture. Remove and seal the vacuum bag, then discard it.
        Once everything is ready, it’s time to use the bleach. Mix hot water and bleach in a spray bottle. Wearing rubber work gloves to protect your hands, spray liberally onto mattresses (including bed corners, springs, and edges) and any other affected furniture.
        On any surface, except for mattresses and other furniture, towels guarantee the absence of traces of bed bugs. Dip a towel in the water-bleach mixture and use it to wipe areas like the inside of drawers and baseboards.
        Bleach takes at least a few hours to effectively kill bed bugs, but it’s recommended to wait 24 to 48 hours for everything to dry. For homeowners who are allergic or sensitive to the smell of bleach, leaving the house and staying somewhere else during this time can allow the smell to dissipate and ensure bed bugs are gone for good.
        Once a bed bug infestation is under control, taking some preventive measures can help prevent the problem from reoccurring. Use protective covers on mattresses and box springs, checking regularly for holes. Frequent cleaning (especially nooks and crannies) and minimizing clutter can also reduce potential hiding places for bed bugs.
       For those who live in apartment buildings or apartment buildings, installing door brushes at the bottom of doors and sealing all cracks and gaps can stop bed bugs from entering those spaces.
        For homeowners who don’t like the do-it-yourself method of removing bed bugs, call in one of the best bed bug exterminators like Orkin or Terminix. Experts can quickly confirm the presence and severity of a bed bug infestation. They will have the training and experience to kill bed bugs in the obvious places in your home, as well as hard to reach or hidden places. Finally, professionals can also help take preventive measures to prevent the infection from recurring.
        Whether you hire a professional or solve a problem yourself, it ultimately comes down to three main factors: your budget, your confidence, and the amount of time and energy you can devote to the project. If you’re on a tight budget but have the time and skills required to get the job done, a DIY method might be a good fit. If you don’t have the confidence or the time, but are willing to spend the money to fix the problem quickly, it’s best to call in a professional.