Have you ever woken up with itchy red bites on your face and suspected it was the work of bed bugs? If so, you’re not alone. Bed bugs are pesky little creatures that can invade our homes and cause a lot of discomfort. One of the places they love to hide out is in pillows, which can make for a very uncomfortable night’s sleep. But have no fear, there are ways to get rid of these uninvited guests. In this article, we’ll explore the most effective methods for getting bed bugs out of pillows, so you can sleep soundly once again. So, let’s dive in and learn how to eliminate those tiny intruders!
How do you get bed bugs out of pillows?
By following these steps, you can effectively eliminate bed bugs from your pillows and enjoy a good night’s sleep without worrying about getting bitten. Remember to be thorough and diligent when inspecting and treating your pillows to ensure that the bed bugs are completely gone.
1. Wash the pillows in hot water: Bed bugs cannot withstand very high temperatures, so washing your pillows in hot water can kill them and any eggs they may have laid. Make sure your pillows are machine washable and set the temperature to at least 130°F to effectively eliminate any pests.
2. Use a vacuum cleaner: Use a high-powered vacuum cleaner with a brush to clean your pillows. This action will help remove any bed bugs or eggs on the surface of the pillows. Make sure you vacuum all the crevices, seams, and folds to increase the chances of getting all the bugs.
3. Freeze the pillows: Bed bugs cannot survive in temperatures below 0°F, so placing your pillows in a freezer for 24 hours can help kill them and any eggs present. Ensure your pillows are protected in a plastic bag to prevent moisture from seeping in.
4. Try steam cleaning: Steam cleaning can be an effective method of getting rid of bed bugs from your pillows. Use a steamer with temperatures above 130°F to penetrate through the pillow fabric. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging your pillows.
5. Dispose of heavily infested pillows: If your pillows are infested beyond repair, it’s best to dispose of them safely. Place them in a plastic bag and seal it before disposing of them. Avoid donating or selling infested pillows as this can spread the infestation to others.
Take a look at this fascinating video on Bed Bugs, I guarantee you’ll find it interesting:
How to Get Bed Bugs out of Pillows
Why Pillows can be a Breeding Ground for Bed Bugs
Pillows are a perfect hiding place for bed bugs as they provide warmth, comfort, and ample hiding spaces. These pests can easily burrow into the seams or folds of your pillows, making it difficult to completely remove them from these soft furnishings. When bed bugs infest your pillows, you may experience a myriad of issues such as bites, rashes, and sleepless nights. Therefore, it is essential to take prompt action to eliminate these pests.
The Importance of Using a Sealed Bag for Transportation
When transporting bed bug-infested pillows, it is crucial to use a sealed bag to prevent these pests from spreading to other areas of your home. Bed bugs can easily crawl out of open bags, thus infesting nearby items, which may increase the severity of the infestation. Look for bags that are made specifically for bed bugs and ensure that they are completely sealed to prevent any escape.
The Ideal Temperature for Washing Bed Bug-infested Pillows
High temperatures are an effective bed bug killer. These pests cannot survive extreme heat, therefore washing your pillows at high temperatures can help eliminate bed bugs and their eggs. A temperature of at least 60°C (140°F) is suitable for killing these pests. Therefore, use a washing machine that allows you to adjust the temperature, and wash for at least 30 minutes to ensure all bed bugs and eggs are eliminated.
Regular Detergent vs. Specialized Bed Bug Detergent: Which One to Use?
When washing bed bug-infested pillows, it’s advisable to use regular detergent rather than specialized bed bug detergents. Regular detergents are just as effective in killing bed bugs and their eggs and are easier to obtain. However, it’s important to note that some bed bug professionals may recommend using a specialized detergent in severe infestations. If you decide to opt for a specialized bed bug detergent, ensure that it’s safe for use on soft furnishings and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Benefits of Drying Pillows after Washing
After washing your pillows to remove bed bugs, it’s essential to dry them thoroughly to prevent any moisture build-up and subsequent mold growth. However, bed bugs cannot survive extreme heat, and therefore, drying pillows in the dryer at high temperature can help eliminate any remaining bed bugs and their eggs. Alternatively, you can hang your pillows outdoors in the sun, which also provides perfect drying conditions.
Using Alternative Methods to Treat Bed Bug-infested Pillows
Apart from washing and drying, there are alternative methods for eliminating bed bugs from your pillows. These methods include the use of a portable steamer, freezing, and vacuuming. Steaming involves exposing the affected areas to high temperatures which immediately kill bed bugs and their eggs. Freezing pillows for several days can kill bed bugs and their eggs. Vacuuming is also a quick way to eliminate bed bugs, especially when dealing with small infestations.
Tip: If you opt for alternative methods of eliminating bed bugs, ensure that you have a plan for disposing of the dead pests.
Preventing Future Infestations: Tips for keeping Bed Bugs out of Your Home
Preventing bed bugs from infesting your home is easier than eliminating an existing infestation. Here are some tips that can help you in keeping bed bugs out of your home:
- When traveling, carefully inspect your luggage and clothing before returning home, as bed bugs can easily hitch a ride.
- Inspect second-hand furniture and bedding before bringing them into your home, as these items are common bed bug hiding places.
- Encase your pillows and mattresses in bed bug-proof covers to prevent bed bugs from hiding and breeding in these soft furnishings.
- Keep your home tidy, clean and clutter-free to minimize hiding places for bed bugs.
- Regularly vacuum, launder and dry-clean your soft furnishings and bedding.
- Consult a pest control professional if you suspect bed bugs in your home.
Conclusion
Bed bugs can easily infest soft furnishings such as pillows, causing discomfort and sleepless nights. Washing and drying your pillows at high temperatures is an effective way of eliminating these pests. In addition, using alternative methods and preventing future infestations by observing the above tips can help keep your home bed bug-free. By following these recommended practices, you can avoid the misery of bed bugs and enjoy a good night’s sleep.
