Running clothes through a dryer can effectively kill bed bugs, provided the appropriate conditions are met. Bed bugs are sensitive to high temperatures, and exposure to heat is one of the most effective methods of eradicating them.
To ensure the bed bugs are killed during the drying process, follow these guidelines:
Set the dryer to the highest heat setting: Bed bugs are killed at temperatures of around 122°F (50°C) or higher. Make sure your dryer can reach this temperature or higher to be effective.
Use the dryer for at least 30 minutes: To guarantee that all life stages of the bed bugs are eliminated, run the clothes in the dryer for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Check the care labels: Ensure that the fabrics of the clothes you intend to treat can withstand the high heat of the dryer. Delicate fabrics might be damaged, so be cautious with items that require gentle care.
Place clothes in a sealed bag: If you suspect bed bug infestation, place the clothes in a sealed plastic bag before transporting them to the laundry area. This prevents the bugs from spreading to other areas of your home.
Clean the dryer and laundry area afterward: After drying potentially infested items, clean the dryer and the laundry area thoroughly to eliminate any potential hitchhiking bed bugs.
Keep in mind that while using a dryer can be effective for treating clothing, it may not be sufficient to address a larger bed bug infestation in your home. In such cases, it's best to consult a professional pest control service to develop a comprehensive strategy for eradication.