Bed Bug Myths Exposed: Ineffective Products to Avoid
Backed by research: Why these popular bed bug remedies fall short.
Battling bed bugs is frustrating enough without wasting time and money on ineffective products. This page cuts through online myths and misleading claims, exposing the treatments that simply don't work – backed by scientific research.
Click here for the most effective treatments for bed bugs.
Bed Bug Sticky Trap
Why they're ineffective: Sticky traps might catch a few bugs, but studies show they offer very limited control compared to other methods.
Better option: Bed bug interceptors are far more effective for detection and trapping.
Boric Acid
Why it won't work: Bed bugs feed exclusively on blood, so they won't eat boric acid. Even if they walk through it, the effects are minimal.
Better options: Diatomaceous earth (DE) causes physical damage to bed bugs.
Bed Bug Spray
Why we don't recommend them: Pesticide sprays can cause bed bugs to scatter, potentially spreading the infestation to other rooms or neighbouring units.
Better Alternatives:
- Encasements: Trap and kill bed bugs on your mattress and box spring.
- Diatomaceous earth: Provides longer-lasting control.
- Steam: Kills bed bugs and their eggs on contact.
Soap-based Spray
Why to skip: Studies have shown that house cleaning materials have minimal to no effect on bed bugs.
Better Alternatives:
- Diatomaceous earth (DE): Offers long-term control.
- Steam: Kills all stages of bed bugs in areas it can reach.
- Encasements: Provide the safest, most reliable bed bug control.
Fogger & Aerosol
Why they're a bad idea: These products simply don't work for bed bugs. They often fail to reach hidden areas and leave little long-lasting residue to protect against reinfestation. They can even worsen the problem by scattering bugs.
Better option: Check our recommended list of effective products.
Ultrasonic Repellent
Reasons to Avoid: Scientific research overwhelmingly shows that ultrasonic repellents don't work against bed bugs.
Better option: Check our recommended list of effective products.
Moth Balls
Why they're not the best: Studies show that moth balls have only 50% killing power over bed bugs.
Better option: Check our recommended list of effective products.
Rubbing Alcohol, Kerosene, and Gasoline
Reasons to Avoid: Using these products poses EXTREME risks:
- Fire Hazard: Can easily ignite, causing severe fires and property damage.
- Health Risks: Inhalation of fumes is dangerous and can cause serious health complications.
- Ineffective: They won't penetrate hidden areas and won't eliminate the infestation.
Better option: Check our recommended list of effective products.
Products that DO work
Check our recommended approach and research-proven products for exterminating bed bugs like pros.