Does Killing Soda Kill Bed Bugs

Can Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs? Natural Remedies and Prevention Tips

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Bed bugs are a common household pest that can be difficult to eliminate once they infest a home. While chemical treatments often eliminate bed bugs, some people use natural remedies to avoid harsh chemicals. Baking soda is a remedy usually recommended for killing bed bugs.

But does it work? This article will explore whether baking soda effectively kills bed bugs and provide tips for preventing and treating bed bug infestations.

Table Of Contents

Introduction

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals.

They are commonly found in homes, hotels, and other places where people sleep. Bed bugs are nocturnal and usually hide in cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and furniture during the day.
Bed bug bites can cause itching and discomfort and, in rare cases, lead to an allergic reaction.

What is Baking Soda, and How Does it Work as a Natural Remedy for Bed Bugs?

Baking soda, sodium bicarbonate, is a white powder commonly used for baking and cleaning. It has alkaline properties that can help to neutralize acids and deodorize odours. Baking soda is sometimes recommended as a natural remedy for killing bed bugs.


Baking soda dehydrates the bed bugs’ exoskeletons and disrupts their ability to maintain water balance. This can cause the bed bugs to die from dehydration. Use baking soda as a bed bug treatment; it can be sprinkled onto infested areas, such as beds, carpets, and furniture, and left for several hours before vacuuming.

Scientific Evidence on the Effectiveness of Baking Soda in Killing Bed Bugs

While some people swear by baking soda as a natural remedy for killing bed bugs, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. A study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology in 2013 tested the efficacy of several natural bed bug remedies, including baking soda, and found none effective at killing bed bugs.


However, it’s important to note that the study had limitations, including the small sample size and the fact that it only tested one strain of bed bugs. Additionally, the study did not test the effectiveness of baking soda in combination with other natural remedies, such as diatomaceous earth or essential oils.

How Does Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs?

Baking soda can be an effective method for killing bed bugs, but how exactly does it work? Baking soda disrupts the bed bugs’ ability to maintain water balance, leading to dehydration and death.

When bed bugs come into contact with baking soda, the alkaline properties of the powder cause the bugs’ exoskeletons to dry out and lose moisture. This leads to a disruption in the bugs’ water balance and can ultimately cause them to die from dehydration.

How Long Does Baking Soda Take to Kill Bed Bugs?

The effectiveness of baking soda in killing bed bugs can depend on various factors, including the severity of the infestation and the amount of baking soda used. While some sources claim that baking soda can kill bed bugs within a few hours, it may take longer for the treatment to be fully effective.

In general, it’s recommended to leave the baking soda on infested areas, such as beds and furniture, for several hours or overnight before vacuuming. This will give the baking soda enough time to dehydrate the bed bugs and disrupt their water balance.

Does Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs and Their Eggs?

While baking soda may be effective in killing adult bed bugs, it may not be as effective in killing their eggs. Bed bug eggs are often laid in cracks and crevices that can be difficult to reach with baking soda.

Additionally, bed bug eggs are often more resistant to dehydration than adult bed bugs, so baking soda may take longer to kill them. It’s important to note that combining baking soda and other natural remedies, such as diatomaceous earth, may be more effective in killing adult bed bugs and their eggs.

Does Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs in Carpet?

Baking soda can effectively kill bed bugs in carpets and other soft furnishings. To use baking soda to treat bed bugs on the carpet, sprinkle the powder over the affected area and use a brush to work the powder into the carpet’s fibres.

Leave the baking soda in place for several hours or overnight before vacuuming it. It’s important to note that baking soda may not kill bed bug eggs in carpet, and a combination of treatments may be necessary to eliminate a bed bug infestation.

By understanding the effectiveness of baking soda in killing bed bugs, how it works, and how long it takes, you can make an informed decision about whether baking soda is the right choice for treating a bed bug infestation. Remember that prevention is key, and taking steps to prevent infestations, such as inspecting second-hand furniture and washing bedding regularly, can help to reduce the risk of bed bugs in your home.

Other Natural Remedies for Dealing with Bed Bug Infestations

While baking soda may not be an effective standalone treatment for bed bug infestations, other natural remedies may be helpful. Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. 

It dehydrates bed bugs and other insects and can be sprinkled in areas with bed bugs. Essential oils, such as tea tree and lavender, have also been suggested as natural remedies for bed bugs.

Prevention Tips for Preventing Bed Bug Infestations

Prevention is key when it comes to bed bugs. Here are some tips for preventing bed bug infestations:

  • Inspect second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home.
  • Check hotel rooms for bed bugs before unpacking.
  • Keep your home clutter-free
  • Seal cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and furniture
  • Wash bedding and clothing regularly in hot water
  • Use a mattress and box spring encasement to prevent bed bugs from infesting your bed.
  • Vacuum regularly, especially in areas where bed bugs are likely to hide.

These preventative measures can reduce the risk of bed bug infestations in your home.

When to Consider Hiring a Professional Exterminator

If you have a bed bug infestation that is particularly severe or difficult to eliminate, it may be necessary to hire a professional exterminator. Exterminators can use a variety of treatments to eliminate bed bugs, including heat treatment, fumigation, and insecticides.

It’s important to choose a reputable exterminator who is licensed and insured and to follow their instructions carefully to ensure that the treatment is effective.

Conclusion

While baking soda may not be an effective standalone treatment for bed bug infestations, it can be a useful ingredient in DIY bed bug treatments. Natural remedies like diatomaceous earth and essential oils may also help with bed bugs.

However, it’s important to note that there is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of these remedies.

Prevention is critical when it comes to bed bugs. Taking steps to prevent infestations, such as inspecting second-hand furniture and washing bedding regularly, can help reduce the risk of bed bugs in your home. If you do have a bed bug infestation, it may be necessary to hire a professional exterminator to eliminate the problem.

Recommendations for Bed Bug Treatment Products

While we do not endorse or recommend any specific bed bug treatment products, several products on Amazon may help deal with bed bug infestations. If you’re interested in using baking soda to deal with a bed bug infestation, you can easily find it on Amazon here.

These include bed bug sprays, bed bug powders, and bed bug traps. It’s essential to read product reviews and follow the instructions carefully to ensure you get a high-quality product that effectively treats bed bugs.

FAQs

Can baking soda kill bed bugs on its own?

While baking soda may help kill bed bugs, limited scientific evidence supports its effectiveness as a standalone treatment. It’s best to use baking soda and other natural remedies, such as diatomaceous earth or essential oils, to increase its effectiveness.

Are there any risks associated with using baking soda to treat bed bugs?

While baking soda is generally safe, it can be abrasive and damage delicate surfaces. Additionally, inhaling large amounts of baking soda dust can irritate the lungs.

How do I know if I have a bed bug infestation?

Some signs of a bed bug infestation include bites on your skin, blood stains on your sheets or pillowcases, and dark spots on your mattress or furniture.

Can I prevent bed bug infestations from occurring in the first place?

Yes, taking preventative measures, such as inspecting second-hand furniture and washing bedding regularly, can help to reduce the risk of bed bug infestations in your home.

Should I hire a professional exterminator to treat a bed bug infestation?

If you have a severe or persistent bed bug infestation, it may be necessary to hire a professional exterminator. They can use a variety of treatments to eliminate bed bugs, including heat.

References

About The Author

Maria J. Brown is a dedicated and passionate expert in pest management, with over 10 years of hands-on experience in the field. Based in California, Maria founded Pest Smart Control with a vision to provide safe and effective solutions to various pest-related challenges. Her extensive knowledge applications for pest control has led her to explore natural and eco-friendly alternatives for bed bug elimination. With a commitment to promoting sustainable pest management practices, Maria aims to empower readers with valuable insights and reliable solutions to combat pests naturally.

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