It was the introduction of pesticides that saw the end of bed bugs after World War II. While the bug was still around, they all but vanished. Unfortunately, that’s not something that can be said anymore. It seems these bugs are back. And, they are back in a bigger way than they’ve ever been before. The reasons for such a resurgence are unclear, but there is one thing that is plain as day. That is, they are back! With such risks out there in the hospitality industry and retail sector, it is now more important than ever to know how to fight back. Pest Control Denver.
You likely already know that inspection and early identification are keys to stopping the problem head-on. However, both of these can be expensive if you hire a professional. While you can inspect and take preventive measures to safeguard yourself, seeking professional assistance is always the best way to go. Especially, when it comes to bed bugs! That being said, there are some surefire home repellents that will help you deter bed bugs. What are these repellents?
Essential Oils
You’ve likely heard all kinds of talk about essential oils lately. You might have heard that they can heal aches and pains, help with migraines, or even reduce stress. However, you’ve probably not heard that they are also an effective bed bug repellent. Well, that’s what they can do, and this is something that’s been proven. This has led a lot of people to develop their own bed bug repellent remedies with the utilization of essential oils.
The only problem is, most skin-applied pest repellents must be registered and certified by the EPA. Unfortunately, this is not something that can be said about essential oils. And, while many consumers do deem these products to be safer than other home repellents for skin, they are simply not certified or registered. This doesn’t mean they aren’t effective.
Diatomaceous Earth
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When people talk about homemade bed bug repellents, you best guarantee they are going to mention diatomaceous earth. This is because it has been proven to be effective time and time again. Thanks to its abrasive properties, the substance possesses the uncanny ability to absorb water while also protecting fats and oils from the outer layers of the bug’s skin. The theory is, once sprinkled on a mattress or surface where bed bugs might come into contact with it, it’ll dry out the bugs and kill them. They’ll eventually die from dehydration.
Peppermint Leaves And Oil
Whether you are searching online for homemade bed bug repellents or you are speaking to a holistic professional, you’ll hear talk about peppermint leaves. This could be the case for a lot of situations because peppermint leaves have such unique properties. That being said, it is the scent that deters bed bugs. One way that people are utilizing these leaves is by, crushing them and spreading them on the infected areas. This distributes the oil from the leaves on the infected areas. That aside, the process is time-consuming, messy, and only yields minimal results for all the effort.
Black Walnut Tea
You’ve probably heard all kinds of talk about a variety of teas as well. When it comes to bed bugs, one tea, in particular, that gets a lot of attention is black walnut tea. People are utilizing this product by placing the teas bags throughout the home in areas where bed bugs might interact with. You can even utilize them to cover mattresses, cracks, and crevices.
Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly has a lot of uses, but one wouldn’t realize that it can be effective for repelling bed bugs as well. Well, that’s exactly what it can do! The thought is that it’ll work by causing these pests to adhere to the surface. For instance, when applied to a mattress and a bug comes into contact with the jelly, it will be like quicksand. It simply won’t be able to crawl out. It’ll get stuck where it’ll eventually starve out and die. The only problem is, the substance isn’t effective. Petroleum Jelly is not a substance that will stand between a bed bug and a blood meal.
Rubbing Alcohol
There is no doubt that rubbing alcohol is extremely potent. While this is the case and many people have been using it to repel bed bugs, there is little proof that it is effective. However, there is plenty of proof that it is flammable, making it a more dangerous alternative. When misused or inappropriately mixed, it could cause potentially serious situations.
Baby Powder
Baby powder is another one that can be utilized for a variety of tasks. And, while it is like diatomaceous earth, it does vary in some areas. One area where it is different is, it just isn’t as effective as repelling. The properties contained in the substance simply aren’t strong enough to pierce or penetrate the outer layer of the bugs. It, unfortunately, doesn’t have the dehydrating properties that you’d find with diatomaceous earth. It can be effective in some situations though.
Dryer Sheets
A lot of people like to utilize dryer sheets by rubbing them on furniture or other similar surfaces that bed bugs might come into contact with. The thought here is, the powerful scent and aroma from the sheets will deter the pests. Unfortunately, there is little to no proof that these products work. There’s simply no evidence, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t worth a shot. It’s entirely possible that they might work for some individuals, in some situations.
Soap
If you’ve ever paid close attention to most manufacturer instructions, you’ve likely noticed that they tell you to launder your sheets and linens in the hottest water possible to get the most sanitary results possible. Unfortunately, soap doesn’t go a long way when it comes to repelling these bugs.
While it is never recommended to use homemade bed bug repellents when trying to control a major infestation in your home or business, it doesn’t mean they won’t be effective to some point. It’s entirely possible that they might help reduce the spread of the parasites. All the above being said, one of the most effective ways to deal with your infestation is by contacting a pest control professional today for a free inspection. Pest Control Denver
