Bed bugs' primary weakness is their intolerance to extreme temperatures.
Temperature Sensitivity
Bed bugs are highly susceptible to both high and low temperatures. This vulnerability can be exploited to control infestations.
Heat Treatment
- Washing: Washing infested clothing and bedding in the hottest water setting available is an effective first step.
- Drying: Following the wash cycle, items should be dried in a dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes. This sustained heat is crucial for killing bed bugs and their eggs.
- Examples: This method is perfect for clothing, sheets, pillowcases, and other washable fabrics.
Cold Treatment
- Freezing: Placing clothing or other suspect items in a freezer can also be effective.
- Duration: Items should be left in the freezer for a significant period of time to ensure the bed bugs are eradicated.
Practical Insights
| Weakness | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme Temperatures | Intolerant of both high and low temperatures | Washing clothes and bedding at the highest possible setting and drying at high heat; Freezing clothing or suspect items |
Additional Notes
While temperature sensitivity is a significant weakness, bed bugs are also vulnerable to other control methods. However, the reference primarily focuses on temperature as a key weakness.
