Bed Bugs and Steam Cleaners

In recent months, bed bugs have invaded major cities across the U.S., infiltrating apartment buildings, hotels, retail stores, theaters, colleges, hospitals, military posts, and more. These tiny, blood-hungry parasites—which don’t transmit disease—feed on the blood of humans and animals and usually make their homes in and around your bed. You’ll find bed bugs lurking in the seams of your mattress, in between your mattress and box spring, in the cracks of bed frames and dressing tables, underneath clutter, and in the folds of curtains. Although bed bugs do not often pose a significant health risk, extreme and prolonged infestations may lead to a variety of negative physical health, mental health, and economic consequences.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s Joint Statement on Bed Bug Control, the best plan for eliminating bed bugs is an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach. Among other components of the IPM process, steam cleaners are highly recommended tools for safe bed bug eradication and prevention. These chemical-free appliances use only water and heat produce a dry vapor steam at temperatures in excess of 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat treatment is then applied to areas afflicted with bed bugs, which cannot survive when exposed to temperatures measuring 120 degrees Fahrenheit or greater. Unlike toxic pesticides, steam cleaners won’t harm your indoor air quality or trigger allergic reactions that may be prevalent with chemical pesticides.

To learn more, browse our information and resources on bed bugs and steam cleaners below. In addition, view our recommended steam cleaners for bed bug eradication and prevention. As a rule of thumb, if you suspect that you have a bed bug infestation, we recommend that you first consult a licensed pest control professional before attempting any do-it-yourself remediation. A qualified pest control professional will inspect your environment and develop a recommended plan of action based on your environment’s needs using the IPM approach.

Indoor Health Matters Blog — Where Will Bed Bugs Strike Next?

Indoor Health Matters Blog — Are You Sharing Your Bed with Bed Bugs?

Press Release — Steam Cleaners Help Eradicate Bed Bugs Safely Without Chemicals

Article — Frequently Asked Questions About Bed Bug Elimination and Prevention

Shop Our Top Steam Cleaners for Bed Bugs

Product	Price	Comments
Reliable Enviromate E3 Steam Cleaner	$399.00	This adjustable-pressure steam cleaner deep cleans the surfaces of your home using chemical-free dry vapor steam. Includes a 13-piece accessory kit with attachments to tackle nearly any space in your home.
Reliable Enviromate E5 Steam Cleaner	$599.00	Continuous fill steam ensures interruption-free cleaning. With 20 accessories included in the package, this unit is extremely versatile.
Vapamore MR-100 Steam Cleaner	$299.00	A good entry-level steam cleaner for residential use. The small unit packs a powerful punch for everyday cleaning.
Ladybug XLT 2300 Vapor Steam Cleaner	$1699.00	Upgraded TANCS version of Ladybug XL2300. Includes EPA-approved TANCS disinfection system and an extended warranty. Features an onboard pressure gauge, continuous-fill design, large swivel wheels, and a bonus accessory package. (average customer rating:5/5)
Ladybug Tekno 2350 Vapor Steam Cleaner	$1899.00 - $2098.00	Strong, germ-destroying system maximizes your cleaning effectiveness. Quiet, portable and easy-to-use cleaning that is safe for your family and pets. As the most powerful Ladybug unit available, this system is perfect for many commercial applications as well. (average customer rating:5/5)
Ladybug T 2200S Vapor Steam Cleaner	$1499.00	This Ladybug vapor steam cleaner is an upgraded version of the standard 2200S, featuring the addition of Ladybug's proprietary TANCS disinfection system along with an extended warranty. Using only water and heat, the 2200S creates a super-heated dry steam vapor that disinfects a variety of surfaces in your home. A continuous-fill design, fingertip steam controls, a 6.7-foot steam hose, and swivel wheels allow for convenience and comfort during cleaning. A bonus accessory package worth $30 is included. (average customer rating:5/5)
EuroSteam ES2100	$1395.00	Powerful all-purpose cleaner created for commercial applications. It cleans dirt, bacteria, grime, grease, mildew, mold, dust mites and more from just about any surface. Includes added "burst of power" superheated water jet for added cleaning power. Perfect for any business where cleanliness is key - such as restaurants, hotels, hospitals and car detailing. (average customer rating:5/5)