Bed bugs are tiny, persistent pests that invade your home and turn your nights into a nightmare. These bloodsuckers are expert hiders, and once they settle in, getting rid of them can be a real challenge. But don’t panic—before calling the exterminator, you might want to try some natural remedies. Below are 7 effective home remedies for bed bugs that are simple, affordable, and chemical-free.
1. Diatomaceous Earth
This natural powder is a powerful enemy of bed bugs. Made from fossilized algae, diatomaceous earth (DE) works by drying out the bugs’ exoskeletons, ultimately killing them.
How to use:
- Sprinkle DE around bed frames, mattress edges, baseboards, and cracks.
- Leave it for a few days, then vacuum it up.
- Reapply as needed.
⚠️ Use only food-grade DE and wear a mask while applying to avoid inhalation.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda can dehydrate and kill bed bugs by absorbing moisture from their bodies.
How to use:
- Sprinkle a thin layer where bed bugs might be hiding.
- Vacuum and reapply every few days.
While not as potent as professional treatments, it can help reduce their numbers.
3. Essential Oils
Certain essential oils like tea tree oil, lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus are known to repel and sometimes kill bed bugs.
How to use:
- Mix 20 drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle.
- Spray on mattresses, sheets, and around furniture legs.
🌿 Bonus: Your room will smell amazing!
4. Steam Cleaning
Bed bugs cannot survive high temperatures. A steam cleaner is an effective tool to kill them on contact.
How to use:
- Use a steamer on your mattress, sofa, and cracks in the wall or floor.
- Make sure the steam reaches at least 120°F (49°C).
It’s one of the best non-toxic ways to kill both bugs and their eggs.
5. Vacuuming
Vacuuming is simple, but highly effective in physically removing bed bugs and their eggs from your home.
How to use:
- Vacuum your mattress, bed frame, carpets, and any upholstered furniture thoroughly.
- Dispose of the vacuum bag immediately outside your home.
Repeat daily until the infestation is under control.
6. Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol can kill bed bugs on contact by dissolving their outer shell.
How to use:
- Fill a spray bottle with isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher).
- Spray directly on visible bugs and around common hiding spots.
⚠️ Highly flammable — avoid open flames and use with caution.
7. Clove or Cinnamon Oil Spray
These oils have strong scents that repel bed bugs and may even kill them.
How to use:
- Mix 10–15 drops with water in a spray bottle.
- Apply to bed frames, mattress seams, and cracks.
These remedies are more for repelling than eliminating, but they work great in combination with others.
🧼 Final Tips for Bed Bug Prevention
- Wash bedding in hot water and dry on high heat regularly.
- Seal cracks and crevices in walls or furniture.
- Use mattress and pillow protectors.
- Declutter to reduce hiding spots.
🛡️ Final Thoughts
While severe infestations may require professional treatment, these home remedies are effective for early or minor infestations—and they’re eco-friendly and safe for your home. Stay persistent and consistent, and you'll be sleeping bed bug-free in no time!