Bed bugs are notorious pests that can be found in all types of living spaces, including homes with hardwood floors.
While these insects do not discriminate in their habitat, hardwood floors can present unique challenges when removing bed bugs.
Unlike carpets, hardwood floors do not offer a conducive environment for bed bugs to hide and lay eggs. However, bed bugs can still infest hardwood floors, and eliminating them can be tricky.
We will explore how to eliminate bed bugs in hardwood floors, including effective treatment options and prevention measures to keep them from returning.
Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, understanding how to tackle a bed bug infestation in hardwood floors can help protect your home and prevent further damage.
5 Ways To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs In Hardwood Floors
1. Vacuuming
Vacuuming [1] is a simple and effective way to eliminate bed bugs on hardwood floors. Begin by removing all clutter and items from the floor, including furniture, rugs, and toys.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and a crevice tool attachment to thoroughly vacuum the floor, paying close attention to the edges and corners.
Be sure to vacuum along the baseboards, under furniture, and in other hard-to-reach areas where bed bugs may be hiding. After vacuuming, seal the vacuum bag or container in a plastic bag and dispose of it outside the home.
Repeat the process several times weekly to ensure that all bed bugs and their eggs have been removed.
Vacuuming is a safe and effective way to eliminate bed bugs from hardwood floors, but it may not be enough for severe infestations.
Combine vacuuming with other treatment methods for the best results.
2. Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning [2] is another effective way to eliminate bed bugs on hardwood floors. The high steam temperatures can penetrate deep into the wood, killing bed bugs and their eggs.
Begin by removing all items from the floor and vacuuming thoroughly to remove any visible debris. Next, use a steam cleaner with a high-temperature setting to treat the hardwood floors.
Move the steam cleaner over the entire floor surface, covering all areas. Pay extra attention to the edges and corners of the room, as bed bugs are most likely to hide in these areas.
After steam cleaning, allow the floor to dry completely before replacing any items or furniture.
Steam cleaning effectively kills bed bugs without harmful chemicals, making it a safe option for homes with pets and children.
3. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural, non-toxic substance that can remove bed bugs in hardwood floors. Begin by cleaning the hardwood floors thoroughly to remove any debris or dust.
Next, sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth over the entire floor surface, paying close attention to the edges and corners of the room.
“I’ll sweep the floors. I’ve picked up napkins in the men’s room. I’m not above anything.”
– David Duffield, American Businessman
Diatomaceous earth works by dehydrating the bed bugs, causing them to die.
Leave the diatomaceous earth in place for several days, then vacuum the floors thoroughly to remove any dead bed bugs and diatomaceous earth residue.
Repeat the process several times over a few weeks to ensure that all bed bugs and their eggs have been eliminated.
Diatomaceous earth is a safe and natural way to eliminate bed bugs in hardwood floors, making it a good option for homes with pets and children.
4. Insecticides
Insecticides can be an effective way to get rid of bed bugs on hardwood floors, but they should be used cautiously. Follow the instructions carefully, and avoid overuse or exposure to insecticides.
Begin by cleaning the hardwood floors thoroughly to remove any debris or dust. Next, apply the insecticide according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Make sure to cover all floor areas, paying close attention to the edges and corners of the room where bed bugs are most likely to hide.
After applying the insecticide, allow the floor to dry completely before replacing any items or furniture.
Repeat the process as necessary to ensure that all bed bugs and their eggs have been eliminated.
Insecticides can be an effective way to get rid of bed bugs on hardwood floors, but they should be used cautiously and in combination with other treatment methods for the best results.
5. Professional Pest Control
If the bed bug infestation in hardwood floors is severe or persists despite your efforts, consider hiring a professional pest control company.
Professional pest control companies have the expertise and equipment to eliminate bed bugs from hardwood floors.
They will assess the severity of the infestation and recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which may include the use of insecticides or other treatment methods.
It is essential to follow the instructions provided by pest control professionals and take any necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family from exposure to insecticides.
Professional pest control is a reliable and effective way to eliminate bed bugs on hardwood floors and can help prevent future infestations.
FAQs
Does mopping get rid of bed bugs?
No, mopping alone is not an effective way to eliminate bed bugs.
While it can help remove debris and reduce the number of bed bugs on the floor’s surface, mopping does not kill bed bugs or their eggs.
Other treatment methods, such as vacuuming, steam cleaning, or using insecticides or diatomaceous earth, are necessary to effectively eliminate bed bugs from floors.
What smells do bed bugs hate?
Bed bugs dislike certain smells, including peppermint, lavender, tea tree oil, and cinnamon.
However, while these smells may repel bed bugs to some extent, they are not a reliable or effective way to eliminate a bed bug infestation.
Other treatment methods, such as vacuuming, steam cleaning, or insecticides, are necessary to eliminate bed bugs from a home or building effectively.
Key Takeaways
Bed bugs can be a stubborn pest to eliminate, especially on hardwood floors.
However, with the proper treatment methods and prevention measures, homeowners and renters can effectively eliminate bed bugs and prevent their return.
Vacuuming, steam cleaning, diatomaceous earth, insecticides, and professional pest control are all effective ways to eliminate bed bugs on hardwood floors.
Preventing bed bugs from returning is also crucial and can be achieved through regular cleaning, inspections, and avoiding secondhand furniture.
By taking these steps, homeowners and renters can protect their homes from the unwanted presence of bed bugs and enjoy peace of mind knowing that their space is safe and comfortable.
References:
- https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/vacuuming
- https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/surface/why-use-a-steam-cleaner/
Alene Schill is a property manager from Columbus, Ohio, who has dealt with numerous pest control agencies. She helps families find the perfect homes and knows very well that bed bugs are an ultimate deal-breaker. She enjoys cycling around Scioto Mile during her spare time.