Do Mothballs Really Kill Bed Bugs? With bed bug infestations on the rise, it’s no surprise that countless DIY remedies have emerged. One popular and highly debated solution involves using mothballs to kill these pesky intruders.
But do they really work, or is this just another myth perpetuated by desperate homeowners? In this blog post, we’ll set the record straight about mothballs and their effectiveness against bed bugs while providing proven methods for controlling these unwelcome guests.
So, I decided to bust this myth with an in-depth explanation. No, moth balls or naphthalene balls do not kill bed bugs. Spreading moth balls around the bed, below the mattress or in your clothing in closets will not help you get rid of bed bugs. Also, Moth balls do not repel bed bugs in any manner.
Properly Inspect Used Furniture & Clothing
One of the most common ways that bed bugs enter your home is through used furniture and clothing. To prevent this, it’s important to properly inspect any second-hand items before bringing them into your home. Start by thoroughly examining the item for any signs of bed bug activity, like reddish-brown stains or small black dots (fecal matter). Use a flashlight to check inside nooks and crannies where bed bugs like to hide.
If you’re buying used clothing, wash everything in hot water and dry it on high heat for at least 30 minutes. This will kill any bed bugs or eggs that may be hiding in the fabric. For larger items like furniture, consider treating them with a pesticide or using a professional extermination service before bringing them inside your home. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to avoiding a bed bug infestation!
Limitations & Potential Risks
While mothballs are marketed as insect repellents, they have limitations when it comes to bed bugs. Mothballs release a toxic gas that repels insects by suffocating them, but this method is only effective in closed and airtight spaces. Bed bugs can easily escape from areas where mothballs are placed since they can move through cracks and crevices. Additionally, using mothballs for bed bug control poses potential health risks, especially when used excessively or improperly.
Using ineffective remedies like mothballs may worsen your bed bug problem and expose you to harmful chemicals. Therefore, it’s essential to seek professional help or use effective DIY methods approved by experts instead of relying on unreliable myths surrounding bed bug control. Remember that early detection and treatment are crucial in preventing a full-blown infestation; therefore, do not hesitate to take necessary measures once you suspect an infestation.
How to Use Mothballs to Get Rid & Repel Pests EASILY – MOTHS, BEDBUGS, COCKROACHES, ANTS, FLEAS…..
FAQ
What is the best homemade bed bug killer?
What smell kills bed bugs instantly?
What is the strongest thing to kill bed bugs?
Are mothballs a good home remedy for bed bugs?
Studies have been conducted to test the effectiveness of mothballs as a home remedy for bed bugs. Changlu Wang and his research team at Rutgers University in New Jersey tested the effectiveness of this DIY bed bug treatment option. The results showed that the mothballs failed to wipe out bed bugs after seven days.
How do you get rid of bed bugs?
Wash the bedding at a high temperature of at least 140°F, ideally for at least 90 minutes. Washing your bedding is an effective method to get rid of bed bugs. The use of heat is a great way to eradicate bed bugs and is one of the main features of our professional solution of bed bugs.
Are mothballs a pesticide?
Morgan is a certified entomologist and pest control consultant and a member of the National Pest Management Association. Mothballs are a classic home remedy that has remarkable success against some critters. The effectiveness is tempered by its toxicity, and they are officially classified as pesticides.
How do you get rid of bed bugs without chemicals?
You can first try to remove bedbugs without chemicals. These bugs are pretty easy to kill with high heat at 115°F (46.11°C) or intense cold at 32°F (0°C). Wash bedding and clothes in hot water for 30 minutes. Then put them in a dryer on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes.