Does baking soda kill bedbugs?
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is not an effective method for killing bedbugs. Bedbugs are resilient pests that can survive many environmental conditions and household products. While baking soda may have some uses in cleaning and deodorizing, it is not a proven method for eradicating bedbug infestations.
Baking soda won’t effectively kill bedbugs for several reasons:
- Limited Contact: Bedbugs typically hide in cracks, crevices, and other hard-to-reach areas, making it difficult for baking soda to come into contact with them. Bedbugs tend to hide in places where they are less likely to be exposed to household substances like baking soda.
- No Insecticidal Properties: Baking soda does not have insecticidal properties that can directly kill bedbugs. It primarily serves as a cleaning and deodorizing agent.
- Resistance: Bedbugs have developed resistance to many common household products over the years, including baking soda. They have evolved to withstand various environmental conditions and chemicals.
- Ineffectiveness Against Eggs: Baking soda is unlikely to kill bedbug eggs, which can be particularly resilient. To completely eliminate an infestation, you need to target both the adult bedbugs and their eggs.
So, while baking soda may not kill bedbugs, it is a part of one of our favorite home remedies for bedbug itch (mix with water to make a paste and apply to bedbug bites, or add to a bath).
Attempting to rely on baking soda or other household items may not only be ineffective but can also allow the infestation to persist and worsen. To effectively control a bedbug infestation, it’s recommended to consult a licensed pest control professional who can employ a combination of methods, such as chemical treatments, heat treatments, and thorough inspections to locate and eliminate bedbugs at all stages of their life cycle. We have also published a comprehensive guide on how to kill bedbugs yourself.
You may also enjoy these articles: Dealing with anxiety about bedbugs
How to get a free bed bug inspection
Do bedbugs bite pets? Are bed bugs good for anything?
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
