Last Updated on December 30, 2022 by Alene Schill
Bed bug infestations can be difficult to control and eliminate, as they are often resistant to many insecticides and can hide in small crevices and cracks.
One method that is often used to help control bed bug infestations is the use of vinegar.
But what kind of vinegar kills bed bugs? Let’s find out.
What Kind of Vinegar is Effective at Killing Bed Bugs?
Several types of vinegar can be used to help control bed bug infestations.
The most common types of vinegar used for this purpose are white vinegar and apple cider vinegar. [1]
Both types of vinegar contain acetic acid, which can be toxic to bed bugs and can help kill them.
How to Use Vinegar to Kill Bed Bugs
One method is to mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to spray the bed bugs and their hiding places directly.
It’s important to thoroughly spray all areas where bed bugs may be present, including the seams and crevices of the mattress, the edges of the bed frame, and any cracks or crevices in the walls or floor.
Another method is to soak a cloth or cotton balls in vinegar and place them in areas where bed bugs are present.
“It’s easier to treat 500 bugs in one room, than 50 bugs in several rooms.”
– Jeff White, Chief Product Officer, SenSci
The vinegar will slowly evaporate and help kill any bed bugs that come into contact with it.
It’s important to note that vinegar is most effective at killing bed bugs when combined with other control measures, such as vacuuming and washing bedding and clothing in hot water.
It’s also important to thoroughly clean and treat all areas where bed bugs may be present to eliminate the infestation completely.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Using Vinegar to Kill Bed Bugs
One of the main advantages of using vinegar to kill bed bugs is that it is a natural, non-toxic solution that is safe for use around humans and pets.
It is also relatively inexpensive and can be easily found at most grocery stores.
However, there are some disadvantages to using vinegar to kill bed bugs.
One of the main drawbacks is that it is not as effective as many commercial insecticides and may not completely eliminate a bed bug infestation on its own.
It is also not as fast-acting as some chemical insecticides, and it may take longer to kill bed bugs when compared to other methods.
FAQs
Does vinegar really kill bedbug eggs?
Vinegar can kill bed bug eggs, as the acetic acid in vinegar is toxic to bed bugs and can help kill them.
However, it is important to note that vinegar is most effective at killing bed bug eggs when it is combined with other control measures, such as vacuuming and washing bedding and clothing in hot water.
Does baking soda & vinegar kill bed bugs?
Baking soda and vinegar can be effective at helping to control bed bug infestations.
Baking soda can help absorb moisture and disrupt the bed bugs’ outer shells, while vinegar contains acetic acid, which is toxic to bed bugs and can help kill them.
In Conclusion
Vinegar can be an effective tool for helping to control bed bug infestations. [2]
While it is not as effective as many commercial insecticides, it is a natural, non-toxic solution that is safe for humans and pets.
It is most effective when combined with other control measures, such as vacuuming and washing bedding and clothing in hot water.
However, it is important to thoroughly clean and treat all areas where bed bugs may be present to ensure the complete elimination of the infestation.
References:
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/apple-cider-vinegar-and-your-health
- https://www.epa.gov/bedbugs/how-find-bed-bugs
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.