Bed bugs can be a distressing situation particularly if you have recently invested in new furniture and couches. However, thanks to efficient, organic and food grade bed bug powder, you can get rid of these pests for good. In this guide, we shall consider whether the bed bug powder is effective and also the steps to using it right.
Is the bed bug powder more effective than liquid sprays?
Naturally, the question most homeowners are likely to consider when they purchase bed bug repellent products are regarding their efficiency. Many liquid bed bug repellent sprays are also available in the market. The problem with using these sprays is that they have to be directly sprayed on the little critters for them to be effective. However, in their life cycle, bed bugs spend a majority of their time in hiding. They utilize the cracks and crevices found in beds and mattresses and come out only in the nighttime to feed on their hosts. Thus, it is very difficult to spot bed bugs in order to spray them with these liquids.
Additionally, scientific research has shown that bed bugs are growing increasingly resistant to many of these liquid sprays and insecticides. This is mainly due to the top waxy coating present on the exoskeleton of the bugs, which prevents the pesticides to actually touch the bugs’ bodies. Furthermore, the FDA has banned the use of many of these chemicals containing synthetic pyrethroids for indoor use as they can be harmful and toxic to humans. In particular, people with kids and pets must avoid repellent sprays and opt instead for the all-natural bed bug powder instead.
Bed bug powder is safe and effective
The bed bug powder is safe for human beings but is quite deadly to the bugs. It consists of diatomaceous earth and can be easily applied in a DIY (do-it-yourself) project. Thus, you can save a great deal of money on professional extermination.
The bed bug powder can be applied through plastic applicators or powder pistols. The latter is mainly useful for injecting inside cracks and crevices and also into electrical outlets where bed bugs love to reside. The powder may also be liberally dusted around the four legs of the bedding or couches and under and around the mattress. The bed bug powder works mechanically by penetrating deep in the bug’s exoskeleton, absorbs its lipids and dehydrates the insects. Furthermore, the powder has a lasting residual effect that prevents new infestations for weeks.
Steps for using organic bed bug powder for targeting bugs
- Start by washing and drying (on hottest setting of the dryer) all the bedding covers, pillows, sheets etc. Ensure using hot water (and even a little bleach) during the wash cycle.
- Get your carpets vacuumed and steam-cleaned.
- Pull all the beds/couches away from the walls. Make sure that no skirting or bed sheets are touching the ground.
- With clean hands or with the applicator pistons, sprinkle the fine bed bug powder liberally into the mattress, between box springs and into the ridges etc.
- Make mounds of the powder around the 4 legs of each bed. Bed bugs usually use these to climb onto the beds to reach the host. Do not worry: the powder is food grade and safe for kids and pets, but it is recommended to wear a mask while applying to avoid irritation of the lungs.
- Work the diatomaceous earth powder in the carpets and corners of the rooms as well.
- The bed bug powder remains effective for up to 4 weeks; thereafter you can repeat the procedure to prevent new infestation.
The bed bug powder is an organic and all-natural method of getting rid of bed bugs, however; you must follow other precautions like washing, vacuuming and steam cleaning the carpets and mattresses regularly to ensure complete extermination. It is also important to reapply the bed bug powder every few weeks for lasting results.
