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Can tea tree oil kill bed bugs?
Often used in aromatherapy, the potent ingredients in tea tree oil act as a natural insecticide.
Tea tree oil contains the compound terpinen-4-ol, whichresearchsuggests can kill bed bugs and other small pests.
Terpinen-4-ol might also disrupt the reproductive cycle of bed bugs.
The strong scent of tea tree is also thought to repel bed bugs.
Or, at least, mask the appealing smell that makesyour mattress the perfect breeding ground for bed bugs.
Further research is needed into tea tree oil as a bed bug killer.
Pure tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of theMelaleuca alternifoliaaka the tea tree.
We recommend mixing 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil with around 200ml of water.
Transfer this mixture to a spray bottle, to mist the mattress and target the outbreak.
Before spraying, remove the bedding from the mattress.
We recommend testing the tea tree solution by applying it to a small, hidden area of the mattress.
Wait for around 24 hours then check for any damage or discoloration.
If you’re happy with the results, you’re able to move on to the next step.
Spray the entire mattress with the tea tree solution.
Pay particular attention to the corners and seams bed bugs love these dark areas.
Tea tree oil is toxic if ingested and should not be used around pets.
It can also cause allergic reactions.
Always dilute tea tree oil and stop using if you experience any rashes or redness.
Some mattress materials, such asmemory foams and latex foams, are susceptible to damage from essential oils.
Check the instructions before using a tea tree oil solution.
We recommend completing a patch test before applying your solution.
To do this, spray a hidden area of the mattress and leave for around 24 hours.
Here are some steps you might take.
A hot wash
Washing soft furnishings at a high temperature can kill both bed bugs and their eggs.
We recommend washing at a temperature of 140 degrees F for a minimum of 90 minutes.
Once washed, either dry the items on a hot spin or in the sunshine.
This second heat exposure will help clear any lingering pests.
A hot wash is one of the besthome remedies for bed bugs.
Freezing temperatures can also be used to kill bed bugs.
Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is an abrasive powder and natural insecticide.
The powder dehydrates bed bugs and can kill both adults and eggs.
However, you should avoid inhaling diatomaceous earth.
And once you’re happy the bed bugs have been removed, clean the mattress thoroughly.
In many cases, the only way to completely clear bed bugs is by calling the professionals.
Professional pest control can ensure your house is completely free of bed bugs.
This is a costly solution but it’s undoubtedly the most effective.
If you think you’vebrought bed bugs into your house, home remedies can be used to contain the problem.
