Beg bugs are a nightmare. Imagine waking up to find bed bugs in your home and finding red rashes and tiny, itchy red welts lining your skin, keeping you restless all night. The sight is enough to scare anyone. You should eliminate these unwanted pests as soon as you discover them. Knowing when to handle the bed bug problem yourself and when to call a professional pest control service in Dubai is crucial to save time, money, and peace of mind.
Dubai is experiencing rapid growth, and its population is projected to reach 5 million by 2027. With growth, a changing climate, and increased movement of goods and people, we expect pest issues to increase. In Dubai, the two most reported pests are cockroaches and bed bugs. In this blog, we will discuss a highly effective bed bugs remedy at home. This ultimate DIY guide, written by in-house pest experts, will equip you with practical strategies to help you reclaim your peace of mind and your bed.
Why implementing bed bugs remedy at home should be your starting point?
While the Dubai government actively spearheads cleanliness drives, the fight against bed bugs often starts at home. As a resident, how can you best eliminate these persistent pests from your premises?
It’s natural to panic upon finding bed bugs, and frantic calls to pest control agencies in Dubai often follow. This is what most residents do. But pause for a moment? Ask yourself: Is the problem big enough to warrant professional help, or is it the fear driving your action? Can I solve this problem on my own?
Taking up bed bugs remedy at home offers a powerful and proactive first line of defense.
Here’s why we recommend it before you call us.
- Immediate control – Taking a self-help approach gives you immediate control over the situation.
- Prevents rapid escalation – It allows you to act swiftly, preventing a minor nuisance from becoming a widespread infestation.
- Containment –Taking early action can significantly contain the spread of bed bugs within your premises.
- Saves costs and time – If the sightings are not enough to convince you of high infestation levels, save time and expense by taking it up yourself.
- Being informed – It’s about understanding the problem, taking charge of your immediate environment, and leveraging available resources.
- Reclaiming peace of mind –Helps you swiftly regain comfort and peace of mind in your home.
The caveat is that any bed bug remedy at home would fail if the infestation level is high. Just call a Dubai-based pest control company to your home. But for now let’s dive into the set of best working home remedies for bed bugs.
Effective DIY Bed Bugs Remedy at Home You Can Try
Effective DIY Bed Bugs Remedy at Home You Can TryLet’s explore the various home solutions we recommend for eliminating bed bugs. While there’s no guarantee that bugs may not reappear, implementing these home remedies for bed bug control is the first line of defense. Let’s walk through the steps for a comprehensive home bed bugs treatment.
Total cleaning and decluttering
One thing one needs to understand is that to eliminate any pest, one needs to know where they hide and what their habitat is. Bed bugs are masters of hide-and-seek, and they love clutter, unkempt, and unclean areas of your house. The more clutter, the more hiding spots. So cleaning these spaces naturally becomes the foundation of bed bugs treatment.
Decluttering is the first thing to do – Deny these pesky pests their hiding spots. Start by reducing clutter, especially around your bed and bedside tables. Remove books, magazines, clothes, and bedding that you don’t remember when you last used them.
How to declutter your space – A vacuum fits the role of powerfully extracting bed bugs. Take a good vacuum cleaner and its hose attachments and patiently vacuum your mattress (paying extra attention to seams, tufts, and edges), bed frame, headboard, carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and any cracks or crevices in walls and floors near the bed. Leave no space. By the end of the exercise, you would have displaced a lot of bed bugs from these places.
Things to remember – Bed bugs are minute creatures. They are rigid and may quickly find a way to enter your home. Immediately after vacuuming, seal the vacuum bag tightly in a plastic bag and dispose of it outdoors. If you have a bagless vacuum, empty the canister into a sealed bag outdoors, then wash the canister with hot, soapy water. Don’t let those captured pests escape back into your home!
Heat-Based Bed Bugs Treatment for Targeted Elimination
Application of heat is an effective method for controlling bed bugs. The problem of bed bugs is largely solved if an elimination method can target both adult bed bugs, larvae, and eggs. Applying temperatures above 48°C (118°F) kills all bed bugs. Here’s how you can do it as part of bed bugs remedy at home.
Washing and drying at high temperature
1. Take a round of your rooms, collect all infested linens, pillowcases, bed sheets, blankets, clothes, and curtains. Pick up everything washable that has come into contact with bed bugs and dump it in the laundry. Though bed bug eggs are visible to the human eye, they are so small (roughly 1 mm long) that it’s difficult to spot without close inspection and good lighting.
2. Hot wash these collected fabrics. Ideally, 60°C / 140°F is a common “hot” setting, often recommended for hygiene. The tolerance of your clothes can be as high as 90°C, but washing at the hot setting usually works for bed bugs.
3. This is half the work. After hot wash, put the clothes in another hot zone. Transfer them immediately to the dryer and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Continued exposure to heat in back-to-back processes is a more effective and safer method for removing bed bugs.
4. Now, clothes aren’t the only thing that may be affected by bed bugs. You have other delicate items that can’t be washed or dried on high heat (e.g., shoes, children’s soft toys). Utilise the natural heat that Dubai’s hot climate offers in abundance. Seal these items in a plastic bag and leave them in the sun in a hot place, such as a terrace or a metal surface that receives direct sunlight, preferably in the summer, for several hours. This method also works.
Steam cleaning as bed bugs remedy at home
Here’s another popular DIY method for bed bugs treatment that again leverages the fact that heat is the enemy for bed bugs. We have found that steam cleaning in bed bug treatment is a highly effective, safe, and chemical-free method that uses high-temperature steam to kill bed bugs and their eggs on contact
What it does – A good quality steam cleaner with a nozzle temperature of 160-180°F can be incredibly effective for direct contact killing. Within the steam cleaner, the water gets heated to very high temperatures (typically between 160°C and 180°C, or 320°F and 356°F at the nozzle).
Next, place it over the infested surface. The extreme heat denatures the proteins within the bed bugs’ bodies, causing dehydration and instant death. It’s good for spot treatment, and professional pest control companies also use it.
How to do it – Don’t rush. Slowly move the steamer along the mattress seams, bed frame crevices, upholstered furniture (such as sofas and chairs), carpet edges, and baseboards. The goal is to apply direct heat, so move about one inch per second, allowing the bed bugs to be exposed to heat for a sufficiently long time.
Caution – Compared to the previous method of hot washing and drying, this method requires handheld use and some degree of precison. Therefore, be cautious not to oversaturate surfaces, as this can lead to mold or damage. Test it on an unused surface before applying it to ensure it is suitable.
Also, always wear heat-resistant gloves and eye protection; keep skin, children, and pets away from hot steam. Always vacuum the area first and declutter it before steaming to maximize effectiveness.
Application of Chemical-Free Powders as Bed Bugs Remedy at Home
We have seen how heat works to dehydrate bed bugs. Now, there’s another dehydration technique, which is a comparatively safe bed bug removal approach. You can use certain natural powders that offer a chemical-free alternative.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
What it is – It’s a very fine powder made from remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. When bed bugs come in contact with this powder, usually the outer waxy layer, it causes dehydration. The insect dies instantly. You can get it easily from Noon and Amazon. Simply search “food grade diatomaceous earth for pest control” or “bed bug diatomaceous earth”.
How to Apply – Apply a very light, almost invisible dust layer to cracks, crevices, behind baseboards, under furniture, and around bed legs. Do not pour in a large amount. Spread a thin film.
Safety for Safe Bed Bug Removal – Always use food-grade Diatomaceous Earth, because there’s another variant also. It’s called industrial DE, which contains crystalline silica, a substance that can be harmful if inhaled. Wear a mask during application to avoid inhaling the fine dust. It takes time to work and requires direct contact with the bed bug.
Containment and trapping method as bed bugs remedy at home
To this point, if you have followed the previous bed bugs remedy at home, results should be visible. After you have cleaned and treated your space, the next step is to contain and monitor it.
Mattress & box spring encasements
A Must-Have – There are bed bug-proof mattress protectors that protect against dust mites, bed bugs, allergens, and are waterproof. Buy a certified bed bug-proof encasement for your mattress and box spring. These zippered covers completely enclose your bedding, trapping any existing bed bugs inside where they will eventually starve and die.
Crucial Tip – Leave these encasements as they are, serving as a covering for at least a year. By that time, any trapped bed bugs and their larvae should have died.
DIY bed bug traps
These are very traditional methods, but also very effective as a bed bugs remedy at home. Place plastic cups or dishes that can withstand the weight of the bed legs you use.
Make the inside walls slippery with talc powder or commercial alternatives, especially those designed for bed bugs. You have a simple yet functional trap. Bed bugs cannot climb up or down your bed, thereby restricting their free movement and preventing them from building up.
Point to note – The above traps are simple interceptor traps. They can only signal the presence of bed bugs to you, either before treatment or as a monitoring method after bed bug solutions have been implemented. These won’t work as a bed bugs treatment or for eliminating large infestations. If you find bugs in your traps, it’s a sign that they require further treatment or intervention from professional pest control services.
Essential oils and alcohol rubbing for bed bugs solution
As we discussed some of the potential bed bug treatment options at home, it’s also essential, in the context of this blog, to explore other methods that may not have the same effectiveness. However, as a leading pest control company in Dubai, readers need to be aware of all available techniques. While tempting, these methods come with significant limitations and warnings.
Using Essential Oils as a Bed Bugs Home Remedy
Nature has gifted us several natural repellents, which are utilized in various pest control scenarios, such as controlling mosquitoes and cockroaches. Essential oils like Tea Tree, Lavender, and Peppermint are known to have excellent repelling properties. As UAE residents search for non-toxic solutions, essential oils appear to be a popular option.
How to Prepare – Here’s a step-by-step guide on making a bed bug repellent spray solution at home. Take 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil, such as tea tree, lavender, or peppermint, and mix it with 120 ml of distilled water (to prevent mineral buildup and extend shelf life) in a spray bottle. Use a glass bottle as essential oils can degrade plastic over time. Apply it over infested areas. Shake well before use, as oil and water separate.
Point to note – While essential oils seem like a good option, both scientific evidence and client feedback indicate that they are at best repellents with a temporary effect. They cannot eradicate an infestation. Therefore, it’s not a reliable bed bugs solution. Use them as supplementary repellents, not primary treatments.
Alcohol Rubbing
What and how – Isopropyl Alcohol, also commonly known as “rubbing alcohol” (70% or 91% concentration), is readily available in pharmacies and supermarkets across Dubai. It’s a clear liquid and used for disinfecting wounds, cleaning electronics, or sanitizing surfaces. It works by killing bed bugs on direct contact by dissolving their exoskeleton.
Major Warnings – Rubbing alcohol is highly flammable. Avoid using it near open flames, electrical outlets, or heat sources. Also, never spray it leniently over mattresses, upholstered furniture, or carpets – that would create a fire hazard. The other problem is that it evaporates quickly, leaving no residue, which means it will only kill bugs on which it lands. It is NOT a bed bugs solution for a hidden infestation. Use with extreme caution and in well-ventilated areas, only for visible bugs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Bed Bugs Home Remedy
Dealing with a bed bug situation can be frustrating if you have not taken early efforts to contain and eliminate it. At other times, we, as certified pest controllers in Dubai, have found that people know what to do, but they are unsure of what not to do. Knowing the “Don’ts” is also essential to tackle the menace. Here’s what you should avoid to save time, money, and tons of frustration.
Using ineffective or dangerous over-the-counter sprays
It’s easier to pick a can from the supermarket and use it than to get your hands dirty by actually doing things yourself. We understand that. But have you read the instructions carefully, and is it safe for children and pets?
Way back in 2012, there were reports of a toddler’s death in Sharjah linked to the use of ‘bombing’, which is a capsule of canned aluminium phosphide. It is sold as a solution for bed bugs in other countries but is banned in the UAE.
A quick fix hardly works, especially when dealing with resistant pests like bed bugs, which can survive without feeding for long.
Instead of removing the infestation or repelling bed bugs, these sprays can scatter and spread them deeper into your space. Bed bugs treatment becomes even messier for professionals later on. If you are convinced that it cannot be solved on your own, leave it to the experts.
Improper disposal of infested furniture
It’s highly recommended to discard furniture that’s beyond use and heavily infested with bed bugs. However, given the high-density living conditions in Dubai, it should be done responsibly. Imagine the spread that can penetrate your building, community, and the disposal site if you choose to discard your mattress or sofa improperly. This is a critical mistake, especially in Dubai’s high-density living.
Spread during transportation – Bed bugs are lightweight, tiny creatures, and move swiftly. They can easily escape by hitchhiking on blankets, clothing, and disposal trucks, and then find new homes in other places.
Proper Disposal – We recommend disposing of items that are heavily infested and no longer needed. In other cases, we can save your items through professional treatment. While disposing of, seal the item thoroughly in good-quality plastic sheeting or a mattress bag. Clearly label it as “Bed Bugs Infested” to alert others.
Ignoring early signs of bed bugs presence
Delay can compound the problem. Never ignore the early signs. It can be a tiny bite or a single, reddish-brown patch after a night’s sleep. Bed bugs reproduce at an amazingly fast rate.
A colony can double its population in as little as 16 days in optimal conditions and with a good supply of blood meals. Bed bugs reproduce rapidly. Later on, as the problem becomes bigger, bed bug treatment is not only time-consuming, even for professional pest experts, but also costly. Bed bugs remedy at home is out of the question when the problem reaches this stage.
Lack of consistent effort
Bed bugs are stubborn pests. They can repopulate quickly, even when you think you have wiped them out. If you’re taking up DIY solutions for bed bugs remedy at home, go after these pesky creatures all out.
Execute, check results, repeat! Go to every nook and corner. The key is to be consistent and thorough in our efforts. Most homeowners either become complacent or assume that what is not visible is not present. This can comprise the entire bed bugs solution.
| CRITERIA / YOUR SITUATION | GO DIY / HOME REMEDIES | CALL PROFESSIONAL BED BUGS SOLUTION EXPERTS |
|---|---|---|
| Infestation Level | Early, very minor (few bugs, confined to one item/area). | Moderate to severe, widespread, or persistent despite DIY. |
| Visible Signs | Occasional bite, 1-2 bugs seen rarely. | Regular bites, multiple bugs, fecal spots, shed skins visible. |
| Time & Effort | You have time for repeated, diligent treatment over weeks. | You need fast, definitive results; no time for exhaustive DIY. |
| Tools & Knowledge | Rely on common household items (vacuum, washer, steamer). Basic info. | Requires specialized equipment (thermal units, targeted applicators) & deep expertise. |
| Safety & Risk (DIY focus) | Using heat, vacuuming, or food-grade DE carefully. | Ensures safe, professional application of powerful, targeted bed bugs treatment. |
| Guaranteed Outcome | No guarantee; high risk of recurrence without perfect execution. | Many offer guarantees for complete bed bugs control and eradication. |
| Initial Cost | Lower for supplies (detergent, DE, encasements). | Higher initial investment, but avoids repeated failed DIY expenses. |
| Long-Term Peace of Mind | Requires constant vigilance; potential for lingering worry. | Delivers lasting peace of mind from expert, thorough bed bugs solution. |
When Should You You Call a Professional Bed Bugs Pest Control Service in Dubai?
Here comes the point where you should make a fair assessment of the situation and check if bed bug remedies at home strategies are working or not. It’s beneficial to know how to handle situations on your own.
However, knowing when to seek professional help is a lifesaver. We appreciate your resourcefulness, enterprise, and “I-can-do-it-myself” spirit, but at times, you need more help. It’s simple. Here we list some crucial pointers to help you shift gears without panicking.
Consider seeking professional help if:
- Infestation persists: Followed all the steps, used all the tips for bed bug remedies at home for several weeks? But still finding bed bugs moving around?
- Widespread problem: The problem is big enough to solve on your own, or is spreading to other spaces.
- Recurring Bites: Bed bugs keep coming back, even after your best efforts.
- Allergic Reactions: Kids in the house are facing allergic reactions, and you can see it’s due to bug bites.
- Peace of mind: Beyond anything, it’s about peace of mind for you. You are looking for a simple, safe bed bug removal and an effective long-term bed bug solution.
- Dubai municipality compliance: You have previously sought professional help or seen the results. You’re keen on taking professional bed bugs pest control service in Dubai to meet compliance norms.
If you tick all the points above, your next action should be calling up a bed bugs pest control service in Dubai. We’re one of them, reliable and highly efficient. Most experienced pest controllers have specialised equipment, protective gear, use advanced technology, work according to a time-based plan, and aim for quick results. Read more on how professional bed bugs elimination is carried out by pest control companies.
Conclusion
Finding bed bugs in your Dubai home is undoubtedly a distressing experience, but you’re not alone, and you’re not helpless. Applying these bed bugs remedy at home strategies can be incredibly effective for early, minor infestations, giving you immediate control and a sense of empowerment.
As you read this, you may be struggling with a bed bug problem and trying to decide when to seek professional help. The very aim of our blog was to educate our readers about the popular and effective DIY strategies for bed bugs remedy at home. But any DIY has its own set of limitations. And pest problems require expert treatment.
For comprehensive and guaranteed bed bugs treatment, or if your DIY efforts fall short, don’t hesitate to contact a reliable pest control company in Dubai like Supreme PCS. Invest in securing a healthier, safer, and truly comfortable space – because a good night’s sleep in Dubai is something everyone deserves.
FAQs
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Jeyakanthan Ramamoorthy