The Truth About Bed Bugs and Dryers: Can They Really Be Killed?

Bed bugs are one of the most persistent and difficult pests to eradicate. They are tiny insects that feed on human blood and can quickly infest a home or apartment. They’re also notoriously difficult to get rid of because they can hide in the smallest of cracks and crevices and are capable of surviving for long periods without food. So, when someone suggests that you can kill bed bugs by putting pillows in the dryer, it sounds too good to be true.

However, there is some truth to this method. Dryers can kill bed bugs, but it’s important to understand the conditions that need to be met in order for this to happen. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind bed bugs and dryers and what you need to know in order to effectively eliminate these pests from your home.

How Bed Bugs Survive and Thrive

Bed bugs are tough creatures. They have a hard exoskeleton that protects them from many common insecticides. They can also survive for long periods without food and are able to hide in the smallest of cracks and crevices. This makes them difficult to detect and even more difficult to eliminate.

However, bed bugs do have one weakness: heat. Bed bugs cannot withstand high temperatures, and if the temperature gets too high, they will die. This is where the dryer comes in. By putting items in the dryer, you can kill bed bugs that are hiding in your clothes, linens, and other household items.

The Science Behind Dryers and Bed Bugs

In order for a dryer to effectively kill bed bugs, the temperature inside the dryer needs to reach a certain level. The exact temperature will depend on the type of dryer you have, but most dryers need to reach a temperature of at least 120°F in order to effectively kill bed bugs. This temperature is high enough to kill the insects, but not so high that it will damage your clothes or other items.

It’s important to note that not all dryers are created equal. Some dryers are more effective at killing bed bugs than others. For example, gas dryers tend to be more effective than electric dryers because they reach higher temperatures. However, even electric dryers can be effective if they reach the right temperature and are used correctly.

How to Use a Dryer to Kill Bed Bugs

If you want to use a dryer to kill bed bugs, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to make sure that your dryer reaches the right temperature. This means checking the temperature setting on your dryer and making sure it’s set to the highest setting. You can also check the temperature inside the dryer with a thermometer to make sure it’s reaching the right level.

Second, you need to make sure that you run the dryer for long enough. Most experts recommend running the dryer for at least 30 minutes, but some suggest running it for up to an hour. This will ensure that the temperature inside the dryer stays high enough for long enough to kill the bed bugs.

Finally, you need to make sure that you’re putting the right items in the dryer. Bed bugs can hide in clothes, linens, and other household items, so it’s important to put these items in the dryer to kill any bed bugs that may be hiding in them. It’s also a good idea to wash these items in hot water before putting them in the dryer, as this will help to kill any bed bugs that may be on the surface of the items.

The Pros and Cons of Using a Dryer to Kill Bed Bugs

Using a dryer to kill bed bugs has its pros and cons. On the one hand, it’s a relatively simple and affordable way to kill these pests. All you need is a dryer and a few household items, and you can eliminate bed bugs from your home without having to use any chemicals or insecticides.

On the other hand, using a dryer to kill bed bugs is not a foolproof method. It may not work for everyone, and it may not kill all of the bed bugs in your home. It’s also important to remember that bed bugs can hide in other places besides your clothes and linens, so you may need to use other methods in addition to the dryer in order to completely eliminate these pests from your home.

Conclusion

In conclusion, putting pillows in the dryer can kill bed bugs, but it’s important to understand the conditions that need to be met in order for this to happen. By making sure your dryer reaches the right temperature, running it for the right amount of time, and putting the right items in it, you can effectively kill bed bugs and eliminate these pests from your home. However, this method is not foolproof, and you may need to use other methods in addition to the dryer in order to completely eliminate bed bugs from your home.

If you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Bed bugs can quickly spread throughout your home, and the longer you wait, the more difficult they will be to eradicate. By using a dryer, along with other methods, you can get rid of bed bugs and enjoy a pest-free home once again.