If you’ve ever faced a bed bug problem, you’ve probably searched high and low for solutions—anything to get rid of those pesky invaders. When you look online, you will likely find multiple sites that tell you some easy ways to get rid of bed bugs yourself. One of the most common DIY suggestions floating around is the use of alcohol. But does alcohol actually kill bed bugs?
As a company with decades of experience in pest control, we’ve seen countless home remedies and DIY treatments come and go. Alcohol can help get rid of bed bugs but is it really viable? Let’s find out!
So before you reach for that bottle of rubbing alcohol, let’s unpack the myths and realities of using alcohol as a bed bug treatment.
What Is Rubbing Alcohol? Can You Use It For Bed Bugs?
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is a common household product used for cleaning and disinfecting. It’s a clear, flammable liquid that evaporates quickly, making it great for killing bacteria, viruses, and other germs on surfaces.
Now comes the main question: will rubbing alcohol kill bed bugs?
The short answer is yes—but only in very specific circumstances.
How Does Alcohol Kill Bed Bugs?
- How Alcohol Works: Isopropyl alcohol (the type you’ll find in rubbing alcohol) can kill bed bugs on contact by drying them out. Alcohol acts as a desiccant, meaning it strips moisture from the bed bugs’ bodies, ultimately killing them.
- Direct Contact is Key: Alcohol only works if it comes into direct contact with the bug. This means you’d need to spray the alcohol directly on the bed bug for it to have any effect. Unfortunately, most bed bugs are experts at staying hidden, making it nearly impossible to spray them all.
- Doesn’t Kill Eggs: Alcohol isn’t effective against bed bug eggs, which means even if you kill the live bugs, the infestation can start up again when the eggs hatch.
So, while alcohol might help kill a few bugs you can see, it’s not a reliable solution for a full-blown bedbug infestation.
The Risks of Using Alcohol For Bed Bugs
Before you start spraying alcohol around your home, there are a few risks you need to know about:
Fire Hazard
One obvious risk of using alcohol to kill bed bugs is it’s flammable. Spraying it on furniture, bedding, or carpets could create a fire risk, especially if you use it near open flames or heat sources. Even a small spark from an electrical outlet or a nearby candle could potentially ignite the alcohol-soaked surfaces, turning a pest problem into a serious safety emergency.
Health Problems
If you spray a lot, there are chances of health hazards too. Alcohol fumes can be harsh on your lungs, and prolonged exposure could irritate your skin and eyes. This is more common with clear isopropyl alcohol as it contains more volume.
Limited Effectiveness
As we mentioned, alcohol only works if it directly contacts the bed bugs. Since most infestations involve hundreds (or thousands) of bugs, you’re unlikely to solve the problem this way.
In short, alcohol is not a safe or effective long-term solution for bed bug control.
What Are Other Alternatives To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs?
So as you can see, spraying alcohol on bed bugs as a removal measure can sometimes work but it is not an effective strategy. So what’s next? Are there any other alternatives that can help you get rid of bed bugs naturally? Yes, there are! Check out some of the options that can kill bed bugs:
Vacuum Regularly
Vacuuming is one of the easiest and most effective ways to remove bed bugs and eggs from surfaces. Focus on your mattress seams, box springs, upholstered furniture, baseboards, and carpet edges. Make sure to empty the vacuum bag or canister into a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it immediately.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
This natural, powdery substance is a popular DIY option. Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around bed frames, furniture legs, and baseboards. The powder cuts into the bugs’ exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate and die. Be cautious not to inhale it and always follow safety instructions.
Wash and Heat-Dry Bedding
Wash your bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water, then dry them on the highest heat setting. Bed bugs and their eggs can’t survive prolonged exposure to heat over 120 degrees, so this is a great way to clean infested items.
Bed Bug Sprays
There are many bed bug sprays available at hardware stores or online that are designed for home use. Look for sprays labeled specifically for bed bugs and ensure they are safe to use on mattresses and furniture. Sprays with ingredients like pyrethroids or natural plant-based oils can kill bed bugs on contact, but be thorough.
Also Read: What Are Early Signs Of Bed Bugs?
Why DIY Methods Often Fall Short
When you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation, the problem isn’t just the bugs you can see. It’s the ones hiding deep in your mattress, behind your walls, and in your furniture. DIY methods like alcohol sprays, essential oils, or even homemade traps often miss the majority of the infestation.
Bed bugs are persistent and adaptable, and even one missed egg can lead to a whole new generation of pests. That’s why professional pest control is so important.
How Jamison Pest and Lawn Can Help You Get Rid Of A Bed Bug Infestation!
Trouble handling a bed bug infestation? Trust Jamison Pest and Lawn. When it comes to bed bugs, professional help is the safest and most effective option.
Here’s how we handle it:
- Inspection: First, we conduct a thorough inspection of your home to find every hiding spot. Bed bugs love tight spaces, and we know where to look.
- Customized Treatment: Depending on your situation, we might use heat treatments, specialized pesticides, or a combination of methods to eliminate the infestation.
- Follow Up: Bed bugs are stubborn, so we always follow up to ensure they’re completely gone.
Contact Us Today!
As a Memphis-based pest control company, we know the challenges homeowners in this area face. From bed bugs to termites, we’ve seen it all, and we have the tools and expertise to tackle any infestation.
When you choose Jamison Pest and Lawn, you’re not just hiring a pest control company—you’re gaining a partner who’s committed to protecting your home and your peace of mind. Contact us today at (901) 452-1505.
