Bed bugs are tough, but they’re not superhuman. When you toss infested bedding into a hot water wash, the heat and agitation become an unstoppable duo. Hot water—at least 120°F or 49°C—will kill bed bugs in all life stages, from eggs to adults. But wait, what if your washer only uses cold water? Don’t worry, you still have a fighting chance.
The tumbling action alone can drown and dislodge many bugs, but cold water is less reliable for eggs. That’s where the dryer becomes your best buddy—more on that in a moment. For now, remember: hot water is the gold standard, and your machine is ready for battle.
