Homebugs may not be susceptible to poison, but they cannot withstand the heat of the steam. Steamers are a great, chemical-free way to remove bedbugs and other pests like dust mites, for example. The steam generators will kill the insects and their eggs, as well as thoroughly clean the infected area. When processing the apartment, several recommendations must be followed to ensure the complete destruction of all insects.
Effectiveness of the method
When used correctly, home steam engines help to destroy bugs at all stages of their development. Steam is supplied at high pressure and temperature: in particular, the surface processing of 120° F for 15-20 minutes kills small insects. However, an exposure time of about 90 minutes will be required to kill the eggs if the same temperature is used. Therefore, the effectiveness of this method will depend on the time of exposure and the magnitude of the temperature.
According to a 2018 study, when used properly, both regular home and professional steam generators can kill bedbugs. The experiment showed that it is possible to kill bedbugs with hot steam on mattresses, as well as insects hiding behind fabric seams and in cracks. However, the study also showed that such treatment was not effective against them when the bugs were hiding in the leather. Benefits of using steam for disinfection:
- it is cheaper than using professional insect exterminators;
- there are no chemicals, so the method is safe for the environment;
- it destroys homebugs at all stages of their development;
- the steam can penetrate and kill insects in hidden places such as cracks, through mattresses and furniture materials.
Of the shortcomings – not everyone has such equipment at hand. To carry out disinfection, it will have to be purchased.
Problems to solve
Sometimes it is necessary to hire an additional professional who can apply the insecticide after steam treatment. While steam kills bedbugs, it may not penetrate deep enough in some areas. These may be deep cracks. Using an insecticide along with steam cleaning is the ideal solution to the problem. It is worth remembering that the use of insecticides can be dangerous, so it is recommended to hire a professional exterminator.
You need to understand that even with professional equipment, it is not always possible to completely get rid of homebugs at one time. When simple hygiene rules are not followed, insects have time to scatter around the apartment, and you have to start the disinfection again. It is best to start processing from surfaces that are at the top and then slowly go down to the floor. Good luck!
