Bed bugs can quickly turn our peaceful homes into a nightmare. These tiny pests feed on human blood, leaving us with itchy bites and sleepless nights.
If you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation, fret not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through step-by-step how to effectively eliminate bed bugs from your home.
Understanding Bed Bugs
Bed bugs, scientifically known as Cimex lectularius, are minuscule, reddish-brown insects that feed exclusively on human and animal blood.
They are masters of stealth, hiding in cracks and crevices during the day and emerging at night to feast on their unsuspecting hosts.
While bed bugs aren’t known to transmit diseases, their bites can cause itching, skin irritation, and allergic reactions.
Top Signs That You Have a Bed Bug Infestation
Bed bugs are notorious for being elusive and difficult to detect. They often hide in small crevices and come out mostly at night to feed, making it easy to miss signs of an infestation.
However, if you know what to look for, you can catch them early and take action before they spread.
Here are five hard-to-catch symptoms that indicate you may have a bed bug infestation:
1. Bites
Joel Carillet//Getty Images
The first sign of a bed bug infestation for many people is bites. Bed bug bites are typically small, red, and itchy.
However, the tricky part is that up to 30% of people don’t react to bed bug bites, so you might not notice them right away.
Bites tend to appear in clusters or lines on exposed skin, such as your arms, legs, or face. If you wake up with new bites and can’t explain them, it’s worth checking for other signs of bed bugs.
2. Stains
One of the easiest ways to spot bed bugs is by looking for stains. Bed bugs often leave behind dark brown or black spots, which are signs of their waste.
These stains can appear on your bedding, mattress seams, and even on your walls or furniture.
Check for these stains, especially around your bed or areas where you sleep, as they are a telltale sign of a potential infestation.
3. Eggs
Bed bugs are not tidy creatures. After they lay eggs, the empty egg shells remain behind, creating another clue for you to find.
These tiny, pearly-white eggs are often located in hard-to-see places such as cracks in the bed frame, mattress seams, or even behind picture frames.
If you find these shells, it’s an indication that bed bugs have made your home their breeding ground.
4. Molts
As bed bugs grow from babies to adults, they shed their skins in a process called molting.
These discarded skins look just like the bed bugs themselves but are often much easier to find because they’re lighter and more noticeable.
Molted skins can be found in the same areas bed bugs like to hide, such as mattress seams, behind furniture, and along baseboards.
If you spot these skins, it’s a clear sign that bed bugs are present and active in your home.
5. Live Bed Bugs
The most definitive evidence of a bed bug infestation is the presence of a live bed bug.
While finding one is the most reliable way to confirm an infestation, it’s also the hardest to do. Bed bugs are expert hiders and are most active at night.
They typically come out of hiding places when you’re asleep, making it tough to catch them in action.
However, if you see a live bed bug, especially during the day, you’re likely dealing with an infestation
Why Natural One Spray Won’t Solve a Roach Problem
Spraying peppermint oil might smell nice, but it’s not a magic fix.
Roaches are survivors. They don’t just disappear because you missed a few corners. You’re dealing with a full-blown cycle:
- Eggs (ootheca) tucked away in tight cracks
- Nymphs crawling out and exploring
- Adults nesting, mating, and settling in
If you don’t hit all of that, they’ll keep showing up like they own the place.
That’s why real natural control is layered:
- Powders to dry them out
- Baits to knock them out from the inside
- Oils to keep them from getting too comfortable
- Cleaning to cut off food and water
- Caulking and sealing to block their path
DIY & Natural Bed Bug Remedies That Actually Help
You don’t always have to start with harsh chemicals. In fact, when the infestation is caught early, some natural and DIY options can help reduce or prevent the spread.
While they might not kill 100% of the bugs, they’re safe, affordable, and effective when combined with other treatments.
Wash everything in hot water
Remove all bedding, clothes, and linens from the infested area and throw them into a hot washing machine.
Use the highest temperature setting possible to kill any bed bugs or eggs that might be hiding in your fabrics.
Dry your items at high heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure the bugs are dead.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
Diatomaceous Earth is a soft, naturally occurring powder made from fossilized algae. It’s harmless to people and pets, but deadly to bed bugs.
When bugs crawl through DE, the powder sticks to their exoskeleton and dehydrates them from the outside in.
How to Use It:
- Sprinkle food-grade DE around the perimeter of your mattress, along baseboards, and under the bed.
- Apply a light layer inside cracks, behind headboards, and under furniture.
- Leave it undisturbed for 7–10 days, then vacuum.
DE is not a fast kill—it takes a few days—but it continues working as long as it’s dry and undisturbed.
Amazon Pick:
HARRIS Diatomaceous Earth Bed Bug Powder
BugMD Roach & Ant Killer Spray – Plant-Based & Pet-Friendly
When you want to spray the heck out of something, but don’t want your house to smell like a chemical lab, BugMD steps up.
It’s made from essential oils like citronella and clove, giving it a fresh scent and an insecticidal punch.
It kills bugs on contact and repels them long-term without staining surfaces. If you’ve got pets, toddlers, or sensitive lungs, this one’s a keeper.
Why people love it:
- Natural, plant-based ingredients
- No toxic fumes or lingering odors
- Safe for indoor use around kids and animals (when dry)
- Works on roaches, ants, spiders, flies, and more
How to use it:
- Spray around trash cans, sink drains, vents, entryways, cracks, baseboards, and door thresholds
- Reapply every few days in high-traffic areas
- Avoid using directly over baits—it can repel roaches from feeding
This is your daily-use spray—like setting up a natural, invisible wall around your space.
Click here to check price on Amazon
Essential Oil Spray (Tea Tree, Clove, Lavender)
Essential oils like tea tree and clove have insect-repelling properties.
While they won’t eliminate an infestation on their own, they can help keep bugs away from clean areas and deter them from spreading.
Simple DIY Bed Bug Spray:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 20 drops of tea tree oil
- 10 drops of clove oil
- 1 tbsp witch hazel (optional for sticking power)
Spray around your mattress, headboard, and baseboards. Avoid spraying directly on bedding without patch testing first.
Amazon Picks:
MAJESTIC PURE Tea Tree Oil
Cliganic Organic Clove Oil
3. Heat and Steam
Heat is one of the most effective natural methods to kill bed bugs at all life stages. Temperatures above 120°F (49°C) can kill eggs, nymphs, and adults on contact.
How to Use Heat Treatment at Home:
- Steam clean your mattress, couch, and carpets.
- Use a handheld garment steamer around baseboards, cracks, and furniture edges.
- Launder all bedding, blankets, and clothes on the hottest setting.
Pro-Level Heat Option:
ZappBug Heater Bed Bug Killer
This portable heater can be used to treat luggage, clothes, books, and more, without chemicals.
DIY Bed Bug Trap with CO₂ or Sugar-Yeast Mix
Bed bugs are drawn to carbon dioxide (what we exhale while sleeping). A simple trap using yeast can lure them in.
DIY Bed Bug Trap:
- Mix 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp yeast, and ½ cup warm water in a small plastic container.
- Place a larger bowl or pan around it, lined with talcum powder or DE to trap bugs.
- Place near the bed legs or dark corners.
Use this alongside interceptors for better monitoring.
Vacuuming + Mattress Encasement
Even with natural methods, physical removal is key. Vacuum every seam, edge, and crevice thoroughly.
Dispose of the vacuum bag outside immediately.
Follow up with a full encasement to trap any remaining bugs and prevent new ones from hiding.
Amazon Picks:
Queen Mattress Encasement, Bed Bug Proof
Bed Bug Interceptors – Trap Set (4 Pack)
Pro Tip:
Combine methods. Use diatomaceous earth and mattress encasements after steam cleaning.
Place interceptors under bed legs and continue monitoring weekly.
Best Bed Bug Sprays and Killers (That People Swear By)
When natural methods aren’t enough, or if you’re dealing with a moderate to severe infestation, it’s time to bring in the heavy hitters.
But not all bed bug sprays are created equal. Some leave behind strong odors.
Others barely work. And many don’t kill eggs, which means the infestation returns weeks later.
This section breaks down top-rated, effective, and easy-to-use options—most of which are available on Amazon and can be delivered fast.
BugMD Ant Killer & Bug Spray
Plant-Based, Safe for Homes with Kids & Pets
This isn’t just for ants. BugMD’s formula uses essential oils like clove and cottonseed to eliminate bugs on contact, bed bugs included.
It’s one of the few sprays that balances natural ingredients with strong results.
How to Use:
- Spray directly on visible bugs, mattress seams, and suspected hiding places.
- Reapply every 3–5 days for active infestations.
Safe for most surfaces
No harsh fumes
Kills on contact
Extra-Strength Bed Bug DIY Kit
Two Sprays – One for Home, One for Travel
This bundle is a lifesaver if you’re dealing with bed bugs at home and want to protect yourself while traveling, too.
The large 24 oz spray is for mattresses, furniture, and baseboards, while the 3 oz travel-size bottle is TSA-approved and perfect for hotel room use.
Odorless & child-safe
Effective on water-safe surfaces
Non-staining formula
Extra-Strength Bed Bug DIY Kit
EcoRaider Bed Bug Killer Spray (1-Gallon Jug)
Green, Non-Toxic, Long-Lasting Protection
This professional-grade spray is used by pest control experts—and it’s surprisingly gentle for home use. It kills on contact and provides extended residual protection for up to two weeks.
Where to Spray:
- Around bed frames, carpet edges, curtain folds, wall junctions
- Baseboards, closets, and upholstery seams
100% kill rate in lab testing
Non-toxic for pets and children
EWG Verified
EcoRaider Bed Bug Killer Spray (1-Gallon Jug)
Hot Shot Bed Bug Killer Aerosol
Fast Action, Deep Penetration
If you need to treat tight spaces and cracks, this aerosol spray is your go-to.
It gets into places other sprays can’t reach and is especially useful for behind baseboards, inside furniture joints, and along carpet edges.
Works on resistant bed bug strains
Penetrates deep into crevices
Leaves a residual barrier for weeks
Buy Hot Shot Aerosol on Amazon
Ortho Home Defense Max with Comfort Wand
Large-Scale Coverage – Great for Whole Rooms
For infestations that have spread beyond the bedroom, Ortho’s Comfort Wand makes application easy.
With a one-gallon size and battery-powered wand, you can treat multiple rooms quickly.
Best For:
- Baseboards, under beds, closets, doorways
- Carpet edges and furniture bases
Kills eggs and adult bed bugs
Also repels fleas and ticks
Covers large surface area
Bed Bug Interceptors, Traps & Monitors: Your Silent Defense
Sprays and steamers help knock the infestation down. But what about monitoring and stopping the bugs from coming back?
That’s where traps and interceptors come in. Think of them as your early-warning system.
These tools don’t just trap bugs—they help you figure out how bad the problem is, where it’s coming from, and whether your treatment is working.
What Are Bed Bug Interceptors?
Bed bug interceptors are small plastic cups placed under the legs of your bed or furniture.
They trap bed bugs trying to climb up or down—without chemicals or bait.
How They Work:
- Bed bugs crawl toward you at night.
- The outer rim allows them to enter, but the inner walls are too slick to climb out.
- Once trapped, they can’t escape.
Use one under each bed leg and check them weekly. If you find bugs in the outer ring but not the center, they’re coming from the floor.
If they’re in the center, they’re already on your bed.
Amazon Pick:
Bed Bug Interceptors (4 Pack) – Amazon
CO₂ + Lure Traps
Some traps attract bed bugs using carbon dioxide, heat, or chemical lures. These are best for severe infestations or confirming the presence of bugs when you’re not sure.
They work overnight by mimicking the breath and warmth of a human host. Bugs are lured in and trapped before they can bite you.
While DIY versions exist, commercial versions are more reliable for long-term detection.
Pro Tip: Use these alongside interceptors for high-traffic areas like guest rooms or closets.
When & Where to Use Traps
- Under bed legs (interceptors)
- In closets or near hampers
- Behind headboards and near walls
- Hotel rooms while traveling
- After every spray treatment to monitor success
They’re discreet, low-cost, and don’t interfere with daily life—which makes them a smart part of any bed bug battle plan.
Travel Tips to Prevent Bringing Bed Bugs Home
If you’ve ever stayed in a hotel or rented a vacation property, you’re at risk of bringing home more than just souvenirs. Bed bugs are expert hitchhikers.
All it takes is one pregnant female in your suitcase, and within weeks, you’re dealing with an infestation at home.
The good news? A few simple habits can help keep your home safe after every trip.
1. Do a Quick Hotel Room Inspection
Before unpacking, pull back the sheets and check the mattress seams—especially near the headboard. Use your phone flashlight to look for:
- Small black dots (droppings)
- Pale yellowish casings (shed skins)
- Live bugs (reddish-brown, apple seed-sized)
Also check: behind the headboard, in the corners of nightstands, and inside dresser drawers.
2. Use a Travel-Safe Bed Bug Spray
Before you even enter your hotel room or Airbnb, spray down the mattress, luggage stand, and baseboards with a travel-size bed bug spray.
Amazon Pick:
Extra-Strength Bed Bug Travel Spray – TSA-Approved
This small 3 oz bottle fits in your carry-on and offers peace of mind, especially in older or budget accommodations.
3. Never Place Luggage on the Bed or Floor
Always use the luggage rack. If the room doesn’t have one, put your suitcase in the bathtub until you’ve inspected the sleeping area.
Why? Bed bugs hate smooth surfaces and have a hard time climbing into tubs. It’s a temporary safe zone.
4. When You Get Home, Wash Everything—Immediately
Don’t wait to unpack. Throw all clothes—clean or dirty—into the washer on high heat, followed by a hot dryer cycle.
Heat is one of the only sure ways to kill bed bugs and eggs.
Luggage? Spray it down with a safe bed bug spray, and store it outside or in the garage if possible.
5. Consider a Bed Bug Heater for Luggage & Belongings
For frequent travelers, a portable bed bug heater can be a game-changer.
These devices heat your luggage and belongings to the exact temperature needed to kill all life stages of bed bugs.
Amazon Pick:
ZappBug Heater Bed Bug Killer – Professional System
It’s not cheap, but for travelers, apartment dwellers, or Airbnb hosts, it’s worth it.
Long-Term Bed Bug Prevention & Home Setup
Once you’ve gotten rid of bed bugs—or if you’re lucky enough to never have had them—the real win is keeping them out.
Bed bugs don’t care if your house is clean or cluttered; they care about hiding spots and easy access to you while you sleep.
That’s why smart setup matters more than scrubbing every surface.
Here’s how to create a bed-bug-resistant home without turning your bedroom into a sterile lab.
1. Use Mattress & Box Spring Encasements
Encasements trap any bugs hiding inside your mattress and prevent new ones from burrowing in.
They also make it easy to spot bugs crawling on the surface, since there are no folds or seams for them to hide.
Features to Look For:
- Bed-bug proof zipper
- Fabric treated with repellents like 3M Scotchgard
- Deep enough to fit your mattress size
Amazon Pick:
Queen Mattress Encasement, Bed Bug Proof, 3M Scotchgard – Amazon
2. Declutter Bedroom Zones
The more clutter you have, the more hiding places for bugs. Focus especially on:
- Under-bed storage – use sealed bins, not open boxes.
- Nightstand drawers – keep them minimal.
- Stacks of clothes/books/shoes near the bed – bed bugs love dark, tight spaces.
Don’t just organize—simplify. You’ll sleep better and spot issues faster.
3. Keep Your Bed Isolated
Avoid letting blankets or sheets hang over the edge of the bed to the floor. This creates a bridge for bugs. Same with any furniture that touches both the bed and the wall.
Try to:
- Pull your bed a few inches from the wall.
- Keep bed skirts tucked up.
- Place bed legs inside interceptors (traps).
Amazon Pick:
Bed Bug Interceptors – 4-Pack Traps – Amazon
4. Create a Spray Routine at Entry Points
Even if you’ve eliminated bugs from your bed, they can crawl in from nearby rooms or even neighboring apartments. Set a routine to spray:
- Door thresholds
- Baseboards behind beds
- Around trash cans
- Near window sills
- Laundry room corners
Amazon Pick:
BugMD Plant-Based Bed Bug Spray – Amazon
BugMD’s essential oil-based spray is safe for homes with pets and kids and doesn’t leave a harsh chemical smell.
5. Talk to Your Neighbors (Yes, Really)
If you live in an apartment or townhouse, one untreated unit can lead to reinfestation in another. Bed bugs travel through walls, wiring, vents, and even plumbing chases.
Don’t keep it a secret:
- Tell your landlord or HOA immediately.
- Suggest joint inspections or treatments if needed.
- Ask pest control to check adjoining walls, even if your unit looks clean.
Final Thoughts from StylePersuit
Dealing with bed bugs is stressful—but beatable. The trick is combining physical tools (like interceptors and covers), proven natural methods (like DE and steam), and strategic products from trusted brands.
With the right plan, you can get back to sleeping without stress—and without bites.
Shop the Essentials (Amazon Product List)
- BugMD Ant Killer & Bug Spray
- Extra-Strength Bed Bug DIY Kit (Travel + Home)
- ZappBug Bed Bug Heat Treatment System
- Hot Shot Bed Bug Killer Aerosol
- Ortho Home Defense Max Bed Bug Spray (1 Gal.)
- EcoRaider Bed Bug Killer Spray (1 Gal.)
- Mattress Encasement – Queen Size, 3M Scotchgard
- Bed Bug Interceptors (4 Pack)
Essential Oils for Bed Bug Control
If you’re looking for a natural, non-toxic way to combat bed bugs, consider turning to essential oils. Below are some of the most effective options, along with explanations of why they work so well:
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is renowned for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Its potent aroma helps repel and kill bed bugs on contact.
Tea tree oil also acts as a spider repellent, making it a versatile choice for keeping multiple pests at bay.
2. Peppermint Oil
Similar to tea tree oil, peppermint has a strong, minty scent that bed bugs find overwhelming. A mixture of water and peppermint oil sprayed on affected areas can help eliminate bed bugs quickly.
Peppermint oil is often considered the best natural method for getting rid of ants indoors.
3. Citronella Oil
Citronella’s distinctive citrus scent effectively repels bed bugs, as well as mosquitoes, wasps, and other flying insects.
As a summer bug repellent, citronella candles work wonders to keep pests at a distance when you’re relaxing outside or hosting gatherings.
4. Lavender Oil
Lavender oil doesn’t just repel bed bugs; it also has the potential to kill their eggs. Its calming scent makes it perfect for using in the bedroom.
Lavender is widely known for its soothing properties, which can help promote restful sleep while keeping bed bugs away.
5. Oregano Oil (Carvacrol)
Carvacrol, the active compound in oregano oil, has shown promise in killing bed bugs outright, not just repelling them.
This makes oregano oil a strong addition to any DIY bed bug spray recipe.
……………
Tips: Using essential oils to combat bed bugs often involves creating a spray solution. Focus on spraying mattress seams, bed corners, and other infested areas.
Always test a small patch before widespread application to ensure fabrics or surfaces aren’t damaged.
By harnessing the power of these natural oils, you can create a safer, more pleasant sleeping environment—free from unwanted pests.
