To effectively kill bedbugs, set your clothes dryer to a temperature of at least 120°F (49°C) for at least 30 minutes.
Bed bugs are resilient pests that can infest clothing, bedding, and furniture. Using a clothes dryer is one of the most effective ways to eliminate them. But what temperature is needed to ensure complete eradication?
Key Temperatures to Kill Bed Bugs
Research shows that bed bugs die at different temperatures depending on their life stage:
| Life Stage | Lethal Temperature | Exposure Time |
|---|---|---|
| Eggs | 140°F (60°C) | 30 minutes |
| Nymphs | 120°F (49°C) | 30 minutes |
| Adults | 120°F (49°C) | 30 minutes |
Why 140°F is the Gold Standard
While 120°F kills adult bed bugs and nymphs, eggs require higher temperatures. Setting your dryer to at least 140°F ensures all life stages are eliminated. Most residential dryers can reach this temperature on high heat settings.
Step-by-Step Guide to Killing Bed Bugs in Dryer
1. Preparation
- Sort infested items into sealed plastic bags
- Keep contaminated items separate from clean laundry
- Shake items outdoors to dislodge visible bugs
2. Washing
Before drying, wash items in hot water (minimum 140°F). This helps by:
- Drowning some bed bugs immediately
- Removing stains and debris that can shield bugs
- Preparing fabrics for more effective heat penetration
3. Drying Process
For complete bed bug elimination:
- Use the highest heat setting (at least 140°F)
- Run for minimum 30 minutes after clothes are dry
- For large loads, extend drying time to 45-60 minutes
Alternative Heat Treatments
Steam Cleaning
For items that can’t go in the dryer, steam cleaners can deliver lethal temperatures. Focus on:
- Mattress seams and tufts
- Furniture joints
- Carpet edges
Professional Heat Treatment
Whole-room heat treatments raise ambient temperatures to 120-140°F for several hours. This method:
- Penetrates deep into walls and furniture
- Kills bugs in all life stages
- Doesn’t require chemical pesticides
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Insufficient Drying Time
Many people stop the dryer as soon as clothes feel dry. However, heat needs time to penetrate all layers and kill hidden bugs.
Overloading the Dryer
Packing too many items prevents heat circulation. For best results, dry smaller loads and consider using high-performance dryer heaters if available.
Skipping the Wash Cycle
While drying alone can work, washing first increases effectiveness by removing bugs and exposing eggs to direct heat.
Post-Treatment Considerations
Storage of Treated Items
After treatment, store clean items in sealed plastic bins or bags to prevent re-infestation. Avoid returning them to contaminated areas.
Monitoring for Survivors
Check treated items carefully for any surviving bugs. Repeat the process if necessary, or consider using supplemental heat treatments for stubborn infestations.
Scientific Research on Heat Treatment
Studies from the University of Sheffield found:
- 140°F water kills 100% of bed bugs in all life stages during 30-minute wash cycles
- Freezing at 0°F for 8+ hours is equally effective for delicate items
- Dry cleaning solvents also provide complete mortality
According to Native Pest Management, consistent high heat is more reliable than chemical treatments because bed bugs can’t develop resistance to thermal death.
Special Considerations
Delicate Fabrics
For items that can’t withstand high heat:
- Use commercial dry cleaning
- Consider freezing for 10-12 hours
- Seal in plastic bags for 12-18 months (bed bugs can’t survive that long without feeding)
Large Items
For comforters, pillows, and stuffed animals:
- Use commercial-sized dryers at laundromats
- Extend drying time to 60+ minutes
- Check internal temperatures with an infrared thermometer
Preventing Reinfestation
After successful treatment:
- Regularly inspect bedding and furniture
- Use mattress encasements
- Reduce clutter that provides hiding spots
- Vacuum frequently with thorough disposal of contents
For more information on heat-based pest control, see this Entomology Today article on integrated pest management approaches.
