Does Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs? [Explained]

Are you dealing with the unwelcome presence of bed bugs in your home? If so, you’ve probably heard about various DIY solutions to combat these persistent pests. One common suggestion that often comes up is the use of baking soda.

But does baking soda really have the power to kill bed bugs? In this discussion, we’ll explore the effectiveness of baking soda as a bed bug remedy, separating fact from fiction to help you make an informed decision in your battle against these tiny intruders. So, let’s dive in and find out if this household staple can truly put an end to your bed bug woes.

Baking soda alone is not a reliable method for killing bed bugs. While it may dehydrate them, it’s not considered an effective standalone treatment. Professional extermination and other proven methods are recommended for effective bed bug control.

What Is Baking Soda?

Baking soda is a common household product that can be used for a variety of purposes, including cleaning and baking. It also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a natural substance that can be used as a mild abrasive cleaner and antacid. But did you know that baking soda can also be used to kill bed bugs?

While it is possible that sprinkling baking soda around infested areas may help to kill some bed bugs, it is not a proven solution and is not likely to completely eliminate an infestation.

Why Do People Suggest Using Baking Soda To Kill Bed Bugs?

There are a few reasons why people may suggest using baking soda to kill bed bugs:

1. Baking soda is a natural substance that is safe to use around people and pets, so it may be seen as a more natural or environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides like Lysol.
2. Baking soda can absorb moisture and odors, so it may be used to help dry out and deodorize infested areas.
3. Baking soda is abrasive, so it may irritate the legs and feet of bed bugs and potentially kill some individuals if they come into direct contact with it.

How To Kill Bed Bugs With Baking Soda?

Since baking soda is not a reliable method to kill bed bugs but people believe its effective, here is Step by step-by-step guide on this:

• Vacuum your home thoroughly, including carpets, furniture, and crevices where bedbugs may hide. Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after use to prevent bedbugs from escaping.
• Wash all bedding, linens, and clothing in hot water and dry on the highest heat setting.
• Sprinkle baking soda in the crevices of your bed frame, mattress, and box spring.
  Shin Pads.
• Leave the baking soda in place for at least 24 hours to allow it to kill any bedbugs that come into contact with it.
• Vacuum up the baking soda and dispose of the vacuum bag as before.
• Repeat the process every few days until you are confident that all the bedbugs have been eliminated.

Baking soda can be used as a natural bed bug treatment to kill bedbugs.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Using Baking Soda To Kill Bed Bugs?

There are no significant risks associated with using baking soda to kill bed bugs. However, it is important to vacuum up the baking soda after it has had time to kill the bed bugs. If you have small children or pets, make sure they cannot access the area where the baking soda is located.

Other Effective Ways To Kill Bed Bugs:

There are a variety of ways to get rid of bed bugs, and baking soda is one of them. Baking soda is a natural and not very effective way to kill bed bugs, as well as their eggs. Below are the other methods that you can use at home to kill bed bugs:

• Utilizing heat through specialized heaters can effectively kill bed bugs at all life stages.
• Lysol disinfectant sprays and vinegar are not proven to exterminate bed bugs but may have limited repellent effects.
• Correct application of boric acid can dehydrate and kill bed bugs, but it may not completely eliminate infestations.
• Although designed for general household pests, may offer temporary relief but are not specifically formulated for bed bugs.
• Laundering infested clothing and bedding in hot water followed by high-heat drying can help eliminate bed bugs on those items, but it may not address infestations beyond them.
• Lemon juice is also commonly recommended as a natural remedy for repelling bed bugs.
• The strong smell of vinegar may temporarily deter bed bugs, but it is unlikely to provide long-term or complete eradication.
• For comprehensive and long-term bed bug control, consulting with a professional pest exterminator is recommended. They can assess the situation and employ a combination of effective methods tailored to your specific needs.

FAQ’s

Conclusion:

While some people claim that baking soda can kill bed bugs, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Baking soda may have some potential to repel or deter bed bugs, but it is not a reliable or complete solution for eliminating an infestation. The most effective way to get rid of bed bugs is to use a combination of chemical and non-chemical methods, such as applying chemical pesticides, using heat to kill bed bugs and their eggs, and using encasements to seal off infested items. If you suspect that you have a bed bug infestation, it is important to seek the help of a professional pest control company to properly assess the situation and implement an effective treatment plan.