# Effective ways to combat bed bug infestations

- Topic: science
- Source: [Upworthy](https://www.upworthy.com/mark-rober-explains-how-to-kill-bed-bugs-ex1/)
- Published: 2026-10-25
- Original: https://www.upworthy.com/mark-rober-explains-how-to-kill-bed-bugs-ex1/
- Language: en
- Image: https://www.upworthy.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/06/origin-388.jpg?w=1200&quality=80

## At a glance

- Diatomaceous earth is a highly effective non-toxic killer that achieves a 90% mortality rate by dehydrating bed bugs.
- Temperatures above 122 degrees Fahrenheit kill bed bugs instantly, making steam and high-heat dryers reliable tools.
- Commercial chemical sprays tested in recent experiments showed very low effectiveness compared to natural or heat-based methods.
- Travelers can prevent infestations by inspecting hotel mattresses for waste and keeping luggage off the floor.

## Sources

- [Upworthy](https://www.upworthy.com/mark-rober-explains-how-to-kill-bed-bugs-ex1/)

## The story

Recent experiments conducted by science communicator Mark Rober and researchers at Rutgers University have identified effective methods for managing bed bug infestations. The study revealed that many commercial chemical sprays are largely ineffective, with one tested spray achieving only a 12% mortality rate. Instead, diatomaceous earth proved to be a highly successful non-toxic alternative, killing 90% of pests within ten days by dehydrating them.

Heat remains another powerful tool for eradication, as temperatures exceeding 122 degrees Fahrenheit kill the insects instantly. Homeowners can utilize steam cleaners or high-heat clothes dryers to manage smaller issues, while professional heating services offer a more intensive solution. These methods are particularly useful because bed bugs cannot develop biological immunity to heat treatments.

To prevent infestations when traveling, experts recommend inspecting hotel mattresses for dark spots, which indicate insect waste. Travelers should also keep luggage on racks rather than the floor and hang clothes in closets to minimize contact with surfaces. While bed bugs can survive up to ten months without feeding, these preventative and treatment steps can significantly reduce the risk of an infestation.

> Summary by Daily Read Bytes. [Read the original source](https://www.upworthy.com/mark-rober-explains-how-to-kill-bed-bugs-ex1/)