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Can You Put Pillows In Dryer To Kill Bed Bugs

Can You Put Pillows In Dryer To Kill Bed Bugs

Maltisa Driker
Contributing Writer
‍Updated on: January 19, 2024
   ·   Fact Checked
Fact Checked by

Maltisa Driker

Contributing Writer

Maltisa Driker is a fact-checker and researcher who has worked in the custom home building industry in sales, marketing, and design.

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Key Takeaways

No, pillows should not be put in the dryer to kill bedbugs. Extreme heat is effective for this, but the temperatures needed are too high for home dryers and may damage any other items or fabrics present. Heat treatments typically require professional help since they must reach certain temperatures for a specific amount of time according to a study conducted by Clemson University and published in Science Direct.

Thorough cleaning practices can also help manage infestations. Vacuuming and steaming affected surfaces can help remove bed bugs from furniture or fabric surfaces before they spread further. Although these treatments can provide temporary relief, adult bedbugs can crawl into furniture or fabric surfaces on their own over time so they aren't a permanent solution.

Replacing mattresses that have become infested is often recommended as a long-term solution to prevent further infestation; tightly woven mattress covers may also help reduce risk. Home remedies such as sprays and traps can be used, but often don't completely eliminate existing infestations; therefore, professional assistance may be required to fully get rid of the problem and potential health risks associated with these pests.

Can Putting Pillows In The Dryer Kill Bed Bugs?

To kill bed bugs, you can put pillows in the dryer, but it's not a guaranteed solution. Bed bugs can survive in high temperatures, so set your dryer to a high heat setting and run it for at least 30 minutes. Before you put your pillows in the dryer, check the care label to ensure they can safely go in.

However, if you suspect bed bugs in your home, drying your pillows alone may not be enough. You may need to vacuum and steam clean your bedding, furniture, and carpets. It's also wise to seek the help of a professional exterminator to ensure all bed bugs are eliminated.

Remember that bed bugs can be challenging to get rid of, so act quickly and take a comprehensive approach to prevent them from spreading to other areas of your home. By using multiple methods, including drying your pillows in the dryer, you can effectively fight bed bugs in your home.

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How Long Do Pillows Need To Be In The Dryer To Kill Bed Bugs?

To kill bed bugs in your pillows, you need to use high heat for an extended period of time. The temperature should reach at least 120°F and be maintained for at least 30 minutes. Some sources recommend leaving your pillows in the dryer for up to an hour to ensure complete eradication. However, using the dryer alone may not completely rid your home of bed bugs. It's best to combine vacuuming and professional extermination services for complete eradication. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific pillows and dryer settings, and prioritize your health and safety by contacting a professional if you have any doubts or concerns.

A rotated mattress, much like rotated tires, typically wears more evenly and reduces indentions or support issues.

Can Washing Bedding Alone Kill Bed Bugs Or Do They Need To Be Dried Too?

To kill bed bugs, washing your bedding alone may not be enough. However, washing your bedding with hot water and setting your dryer on high heat can kill bed bugs at all stages of development. Just make sure not to overcrowd the dryer or washing machine to allow for proper heat circulation. If your bedding is too large for your dryer, consider taking it to a laundromat with commercial-size machines.

Keep in mind that washing your bedding is just one part of a comprehensive plan for dealing with bed bugs. You may also need to vacuum, steam clean, and use bed bug sprays or traps to get rid of them. Be sure to inspect and treat all areas where the bugs might be hiding, such as mattress seams, box springs, and bed frames.

If you're dealing with a significant bed bug infestation, it's best to call in a professional pest control company. They can use a range of techniques, including heat treatment and fumigation, to eliminate bed bugs from your home. Remember that bed bugs can be found even in the cleanest homes, so there's no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed. Take action to get rid of them as quickly as possible.

Is It Safe To Put Any Type Of Pillow In The Dryer To Kill Bed Bugs?

While putting pillows in the dryer can kill bed bugs, it's essential to check the care instructions before attempting to dry them. Some pillows cannot withstand the high heat setting and may become damaged. Even if the pillow can tolerate high heat, bed bugs can hide in small crevices, making it challenging to eradicate them with a dryer.

To eliminate bed bugs, it's recommended to use a combination of methods, including vacuuming, washing bed linens and pillows in hot water, and using bed bug sprays or traps. Regularly inspecting your bedding and pillows for signs of bed bugs can help catch an infestation early on.

In summary, using a dryer on high heat can be helpful, but it's crucial to take additional steps and regularly inspect bedding and pillows to fully eradicate a bed bug infestation.

Can Putting Pillows In The Dryer Eliminate All Bed Bugs In A Home?

Putting pillows in the dryer cannot eliminate all bed bugs in a home. Bed bugs can hide in various places such as cracks in walls and furniture, so it's important to take a comprehensive approach to elimination.

To get rid of bed bugs, wash and dry all bedding, clothing, and curtains on high heat. Vacuuming and steam cleaning can help eliminate bed bugs in carpets, furniture, and other surfaces. Sealing off any cracks or crevices where bed bugs could hide is also crucial.

It's important to research and consider the effectiveness and safety of different products and treatments before deciding on a solution. If the infestation is severe, seek professional help.

Dealing with bed bugs is stressful, but eliminating them can be done with a thorough and cautious approach.

About X

X is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of NapLab.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, Huffington Post, Washington Post, AskMen, and She Knows. X has personally tested over 268+ mattresses and hundreds of pillows, sheets, beds, and other sleep products.

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References