Running an older dryer on high heat for 80 minutes after washing your clothes might help to kill some bed bugs and their eggs, but it may not be a reliable or effective method for complete eradication. Bed bugs are resilient pests, and their ability to survive high temperatures can vary.
While bed bugs are vulnerable to heat, the success of using a dryer to eliminate them depends on various factors, including the temperature reached inside the dryer and the location of the bed bugs in your clothes. Some bed bugs may find hiding spots in the folds or seams of the clothing, making it difficult for the heat to penetrate and reach them.
For more effective bed bug elimination, consider the following steps:
Washing with hot water: Washing your clothes in hot water (at least 120°F or 49°C) before using the dryer can help to kill bed bugs and their eggs. Bed bugs are sensitive to high temperatures.
Use the highest heat setting on the dryer: If you decide to use the dryer, opt for the highest heat setting available. High temperatures are more likely to kill bed bugs and their eggs effectively.
Extend drying time: If possible, extend the drying time beyond 80 minutes to ensure that the heat penetrates deep into the clothes and reaches all potential hiding spots.
Inspect and repeat: After drying, inspect your clothes for any signs of surviving bed bugs. If you find any, consider repeating the process or using other bed bug control methods.
Seek professional help: If you have a significant bed bug infestation, it's best to contact a professional pest control service. They have the expertise and tools to treat infestations effectively.
Remember that dealing with bed bugs can be challenging, and a combination of multiple control methods is often necessary for successful elimination. Heat treatment can be effective when applied correctly, but it's just one aspect of an integrated pest management approach to tackle bed bug infestations.