Easy ways to get rid of bed bugs

Bed bugs can make it difficult to sleep and may leave red itchy marks on the skin. These tiny insects often hide in beds sofas clothes and other dark places during the day.

At night they become active and feed on people. Even a few bed bugs can quickly turn into a bigger problem if they are not treated properly.  While many bed bug sprays are available in stores some people also try simple home methods to control them.

Use hot air

A hair dryer can be used to blow hot air into cracks corners and other places where bed bugs or their eggs may be hiding.  Heat can kill bed bugs but care is important. Never use a hair dryer near flammable materials.

Try mint leaves

Bed bugs may dislike strong smells such as mint. Fresh mint leaves can be placed near beds sofas or areas where bed bugs are found. However mint should not be considered a reliable way to kill bed bugs. It may only help make certain areas less attractive to them.

Wash bedding in hot water

Wash bedsheets pillow covers clothes and other washable items that may contain bed bugs in hot water.  After washing dry them thoroughly using high heat if the fabric allows it. Heat can help kill bed bugs and their eggs and reduce their numbers.

Keep the area clean

Baking soda is sometimes suggested as a home remedy for bed bugs but there is limited evidence that it can kill them.  Instead of relying on baking soda regularly vacuum mattresses sofas carpets and cracks where bed bugs may hide.

If the infestation has become large home remedies may not be enough.  In such cases contacting a professional pest control service is usually a better option.