Can Salt Kill Bed Bugs? Myth or Fact?
Bed bugs are eternal nightmares for homeowners. These pests are experts in squeezing into the tiniest crevices and survive for months without feeding. Bed bug infestation is increasing tremendously these days. This is why people have turned to various treatments, including salt, to deal with bed bugs.
So, does salt really kill bed bugs, or is it just a myth? Let’s break down the answer.
Explaining Can Salt Kill Bed Bugs and Their Survival Tactics
Bed bugs are known as resilient pests. These insects have adapted to all of the challenging environments. Back then, chemical treatments were very strong which helped in wiping out bed bugs instantly. Today, restrictions on pesticides such as DDT have become a reason that dealing with these bed bugs has become difficult. In fact, such bugs have developed resistance to many commonly used insecticides over time.
One of the challenges of bed bug control is that they hide well. They can even squeeze through the smallest openings, such as mattresses, furniture pieces, and baseboards, making their removal almost impossible. In fact, not even professional pest controllers can reach every hiding spot.
Similarly, another advantage of bed bugs survival is that they can live for months without feeding anything. Even if you leave your home empty for a period, they can wait long to suck human blood. With all these features, one of the toughest household pests is bed bugs.
Can Salt Kill Bed Bugs? Myth or Fact?
When it comes to the idea of killing bed bugs with salt, there is no scientific proof. Moreover, common household salt is ineffective for such insects. It lacks the qualities necessary to cause the rapid death of such pests. But the story doesn’t end here. There are a variety of salts that may affect bugs under specific conditions.
Salt may dry out soft-bodied insects such as slugs. However, beg bugs have a hard outer exoskeleton, which keeps them moist, making it hard to dehydrate them. Furthermore, bed bugs do not consume salt, making them immune to salt poisoning.
Why Salt Doesn’t Kill Bed Bugs – Scientific Reasons
Saltwater solutions, like regular salt, do not kill bedbugs. The reason is quite scientific:
- Bedbugs do not absorb salt into their body.
- Salt does not cause dehydration because of bugs’ hard outer shell.
Why Saltwater Fails as a Treatment:
- Low Potency: The salt concentration isn’t strong enough to kill bedbugs on contact.
- Temporary Effect: It may deter bugs for a short time, but don’t eliminate them permanently.
- Dilution Factor: Since salt dissolves in water, its effectiveness is further weakened.
While saltwater may sound harmless and easy, it is definitely not a permanent solution against bed bug infestation.
Can I Use Epsom Salt to Kill Bed Bugs?
Epsom salt is said to be an alternative remedy for pests, but it does not affect bed bugs. Unlike table salt containing sodium chloride, Epsom salt consists of magnesium and sulphate. With no toxic properties, Epsom salt doesn’t kill bedbugs nor affect their survival.
Breaking Down Epsom Salt:
- No Impact on Bed Bugs: Magnesium sulphate does not affect the bodily functions of such insects.
- Main Use: It is mainly known for relaxing muscles in baths rather than as an insecticide.
In short, relying on Epsom salt is not a wise option if you are facing a bedbug issue.
How Can I Use Salt Water to Kill Bed Bugs?
Saltwater is not a very effective solution, but some people try it as a DIY remedy. If you feel that you must try it, then do the following:
- Make a Strong Solution: Add a high concentration of salt to warm water.
- Apply it to infested areas: Use a spray bottle and apply it to areas where bed bugs are hiding.
- Check Out the Outcome: Whether there is any change in bedbug activity.
- Repeat and use with other methods: Combine using saltwater treatment with other effective methods like heat and diatomaceous earth.
While you may try this method, never rely only on this solution.
7 Home Remedies to Get Rid of Bed Bugs
1. Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning while maintaining temperatures above 140°F is probably one of the greatest ways to kill bed bugs. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid any damage to the furniture.
2. Use Silica Gel
You can also use little packets found in your shoe boxes and food items packaging called silicon gel. Simply crush the beads into very fine dust and spread it around bed bug-holing sites. Most importantly, avoid this method if you have pets or children because silica dust and inhalation may harm them.
3. Scented Dryer Sheets
Most people think that scented dryer sheets could repel pesky bed bugs. They might keep bugs away from a space for a short time, but will not make that area entirely free of the infestation.
4. Use a Stiff Brush
Using a stiff brush on mattress seams can dislodge the bed bugs and eggs, which are difficult to reach with a vacuum cleaner.
5. Double-Sided Tape
The double-sided tape hangs down bedposts and furniture legs to catch bedbugs as they try to crawl up. However, it is only a preventive method and will not help you get rid of an already established infestation.
6. Try Vacuuming
A vacuum cleaner attached might be efficient enough to suck away bed bugs from mattresses, bed linens, and furniture. Dispose of the bag outside immediately afterwards.
7. Try Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder that is fatal to insect exoskeletons. Spread it around infested but ensure to avoid laying on your mattress, as inhaling the tiny powder can be harmful to the lungs.
Conclusion
Many people think of using salt as a home remedy for bed bugs. However, it is not effective at all. Since such insects have exoskeletons that act as protective layers, salt does not affect their survival. For effective results, you can use diatomaceous earth and call for expert pest control as well.
FAQs
1.Does salt kill bed bugs right away?
No, bed bugs are not killed right away and effectively with salt. Since their exoskeleton protects them from dehydration, salt will not affect them.
2.Can I use salt water to get rid of bed bugs?
Using salt water may affect them for a short time, relying on this method is not a good option for the long term.
3.What home remedy can I use for bed bugs?
There are many effective home remedies including vacuuming and using diatomaceous earth. However, it is preferred to call experts if the infestation is severe.
Want Help From Professionals?
Using salt might not work for beg bugs, but our services always help. Safe Pest Sol is an expert pest control team that is always ready to help you eliminate bug infestations. Just call us now, and let us help you!