Does baby powder kill bed bugs? The answer might surprise you. Stay tuned with us to learn more about bed bugs and a few tips to prevent their infestation.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are egg-shaped parasitic insects that feed on human blood and animals. They are 5-9 mm in size. Due to their flat body, they can easily burrow in the cracks and fissures of mattresses, cushions, bedsteads, and headboards. When bed bugs bite, you may feel a bit of itching and burning sensation.
Does Baby Powder Kill Bed Bugs?
Baby powder doesn’t eradicate bed bugs. Many anecdotal reports claim it can eliminate bed bugs by dehydrating their body. But, there is no scientific research or study available to verify this claim. It’s a mild body powder used for babies, not abrasive like the diatomaceous earth that easily dissolves the exoskeleton.
Alternative Ways to Kill Bed Bugs
As you know, baby powder is an absolute failure. So try the below alternate ways to get rid of these pesky little blood-feeding bed bugs.
1. Try Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is an excellent way to get rid of bed bugs. According to a study, when bed bugs are exposed to the abrasive diatomaceous earth, it desiccates the outer layer of their body, which eventually leads to death.
Remedy
Fill all the holes, cracks, or any other openings with a sufficient amount of diatomaceous earth. Spread diatomaceous earth behind and beneath the kitchen appliances along with the upholstered furniture, bed frames, and the other potential hiding places of bed bugs.
2. Wash Everything Thoroughly
One of the best and potent methods to eliminate bed bugs infestation is to clean everything properly. Simply, try the below remedy to get rid of bed bugs. While using bleach, always wear a good quality face mask and hand gloves to avoid any mishaps.
Remedy
First, clean all the washable items into the washer with color-safe, chlorine-free bleach, at the highest temperature. Once they are clean, place them into the dryer for 20 minutes at the warmest setting. Then, store the cleaned items into the zip lock bags. Put the non-washable things in direct sunlight for a whole day.
Bed Bugs Prevention Tips
Follow the below bed bugs prevention tips to stop their infestation in the first place.
- Remove all the pile of clutter from your home.
- Vacuum rugs, floors, and furniture on a regular basis.
- Install door sweeps below the doors.
- Clean your pet’s bedding regularly in the washer.
- Seal all the holes, cracks, and crevices of your house.
- Always check for bed bug’s infestation before purchasing any old furniture.
Fighting against bed bugs infestation is a time consuming and harrowing experience. That’s why try the above on-the-go and robust home remedies to get rid of them for good. But, if you are facing a severe infestation, then it’s advisable to call the professionals immediately. Besides, read this detailed article to eliminate the boxelder bugs from your house completely.