Does Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs can be a frustrating and persistent pest problem, and many homeowners are on the lookout for effective, affordable ways to get rid of them. One popular natural remedy for bed bugs is baking soda. But does baking soda kill bed bugs? In this article, we’ll explore the scientific evidence behind the effectiveness of baking soda as a bed bug treatment, as well as its potential drawbacks and alternatives

What Is Baking Soda?

The chemical formula of baking soda is Sodium Bicarbonate. It is obviously composed of sodium compounds and bicarbonate compounds. It is a white, fine powder that can be sprinkled on bed bug colonies.

Baking soda will help in getting rid of bed bugs. Sodium Bicarbonate is a white fine powder that must be easily available in your kitchen. You will not find any other cheaper, more powerful, and safer means of finishing the bed bugs. When it releases carbon dioxide, the bed bug will either explode or get completely dehydrated.

You can mix water and apply it as a paste, make piles or sprinkle it in powder form. Make sure they do not find a way to escape. Get rid of old stuff and opt for a thorough vacuum.

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Does Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs Permanently?

Let’s try to understand in detail if baking soda is a perfect option to kill bed bugs permanently. But first, let’s try to know how baking soda works.

Why Is Baking Soda A Good Option To Get Rid Of Bed Bugs?

• It is inexpensive.
• It is readily available in most home pantries.
• It is toxic to pests but has no significant changes when it comes in contact with humans.

How Does Baking Soda Work?

Listed below are a few mechanisms that might lead to bed bug extermination when they come in contact with baking soda:

• With changes in temperatures, baking soda will release carbon dioxide, due to the chemical changes that it undergoes.  This releases carbon dioxide.  This might eventually lead to the bed bug exploding if it has ingested baking soda.
• The sharp crystalline form of baking soda is sufficient to cut the belly of a bed bug.
• Baking Soda has a tendency to absorb moisture.  So once it comes in contact with a bed bug, it might suck the water from the body of the bug and completely dehydrate it.

Why Is Baking Soda Considered To Be More Effective Than Other DIY Options To Deal With Bed Bugs?

Baking Soda is one of the only chemical compounds that can deal with bed bugs effectively and is completely safe for humans.  It does not have any strong adverse effects.  If you have toddlers or pets in the house, this might be one of the options you consider.  It is also good to use in case you suffer from allergies related to chemical aromas etc.

What Are The Different Ways Of Using Baking Soda?

Knowing that baking soda is effective against bugs is not good enough.  You now need to know how to use the compound to your advantage.  Follow any one of the methods listed below:

• Make a paste – Mix baking soda in water to form a thick paste.  It should be about the consistency of honey.  Now you will have to apply this paste to areas where you suspect a bed bug colony.  Repeat the process every day till all the bugs are dead.

• Sprinkle around – This method can be used if the infestation has spread to a large part of your home.  Sprinkle the powder around.  Target areas can be, your mattress, sofa, carpet, etc.  Let it sit for around an hour and then vacuum the areas.  This will kill the bugs and then get rid of all the bed bug dead bodies.  Repeat this for around 5 days.

• Pile baking soda around target areas – Make lines of baking soda, like walls around your bed, sofa, and other areas where you suspect an infestation.  The bugs will die automatically once they walk through the pile.

What Are The Steps To Be Taken Before And After A Baking Soda Treatment?

• Deep clean your home before you begin sprinkling.  This will get rid of some bugs and their eggs.
• Reduce clutter and throw away all unused and old items.
• Identify and mark target areas where there are maximum infestations, like the mattress, seams of sofa cushions, crevices in furniture, etc.
• Seal all the remaining areas where the bugs that have escaped the chemical might rush to.  This way the bugs won’t have anywhere to go and you can kill the ones that try to hide again.
• Vacuuming is a major part of this treatment as it is the only way that you can be absolutely sure there are no remaining bugs.  Vacuuming should be done only after the chemical has been allowed to sit for about an hour.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, baking soda can be used as an alternative method for dealing with bed bugs, but it is not a guaranteed solution. While some studies have shown that baking soda can kill bed bugs, its effectiveness can vary depending on how it is used. It’s also important to note that bed bugs can quickly develop resistance to certain methods of extermination, so it’s perfect to use a combination of methods to ensure the perfect chance of success.

Additionally, it is important to address all areas of infestation, such as cracks and crevices, in order to eliminate bed bugs and prevent future infestations. If you suspect a bed bug infestation in your home, it’s perfect to contact a professional exterminator for an assessment and treatment plan.

Also, Read –

• Where Do Bed Bugs hide?
• Does alcohol kill Bed Bugs?