If you’ve been unfortunate enough to have bed bugs in your home, you know that they can be difficult to get rid of. But did you know that they can also hitch a ride on your shoes and travel with you elsewhere? Here’s how to get rid of bed bugs from shoes so you can avoid bringing them into your home again.
It’s the middle of summer, and you’ve just returned from a week-long vacation. You’re unpacking your suitcase, and as you pull out your shoes, you notice something moving on one of them.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips for getting rid of bed bugs from shoes. Keep reading for more information!
Summary: Getting rid of bed bugs from shoes can be challenging, but it’s an essential step in eradicating these pests from your home. Some effective methods to eliminate bed bugs from shoes include using high heat, such as putting them in a dryer on high heat or leaving them in direct sunlight, freezing them, or using insecticide sprays specifically designed for bed bugs.
What Will Happen if Bed Bugs Get Into Shoes?
1. Lead to Infestation
Bed bugs can lay eggs and hide in the cracks and crevices of shoes, leading to an infestation in your home. It will cause discomfort, as bed bugs bite and feed on human blood. So make sure to prevent them from getting into your shoes in the first place.
2. Spread to Other Areas
Not only can bed bugs infest your home, but they can also spread from your shoes to other areas, such as work or public places. This can result in embarrassment and inconvenience for you and others around you.
3. Health Concerns
Bed bugs can also transmit diseases such as Chagas disease and hepatitis B through their bites. It will also cause itching and irritation, potentially leading to infection if scratched excessively. So make sure to get rid of any bed bugs in your shoes as soon as possible.
4. Skin Irritation
Bed bugs can also leave behind their feces and body parts, causing skin irritation and allergic reactions. Also, it can cause psychological distress and disrupt sleep, leading to further health issues. So make sure to eliminate any bed bugs in your shoes to avoid these potential consequences.
12 Ways About How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs From Shoes
1. Thoroughly Vacuum Shoes
This will remove any bed bugs or eggs that may be hiding in the crevices of your shoes. It is very easy to do and can be done with any household vacuum. But you have to make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after to prevent re-infestation.
2. Wash and Dry on High Heat
Place shoes in the washing machine and wash them with hot water on a high heat setting, then dry them on the highest heat setting as well. This will kill any bed bugs or eggs that may be hiding inside your shoes.
3. Freeze Shoes
Placing your shoes in a sealable plastic bag and leaving them in the freezer for at least 48 hours will also kill any bed bugs or eggs inside your shoes. But make sure to let them thaw out completely before taking them out of the freezer and using them again.
4. Use Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkle this powder onto your shoes and leave it on for a few hours before vacuuming it off. It will kill any bed bugs or eggs by drying them out and causing abrasions in their exoskeletons. But be careful not to inhale the powder or get it in your eyes.
5. Use Steam Cleaner
If you have one, use a steam cleaner on your shoes to kill any bed bugs or eggs hiding inside them. Make sure to hold the steamer about 2-3 inches away from the surface of your shoes, as holding it too close could damage the material.
6. Use Rubbing Alcohol
Soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol and wipe down the inside and outside of your shoes to kill any bed bugs or eggs. Make sure to let them dry completely before wearing them again. It can be a little bit time-consuming but it is an effective method.
7. Use Insecticide Spray
Spray the inside and outside of your shoes with an insecticide labeled for bed bug control. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label and let them dry completely before wearing them again. Otherwise, the insecticide may transfer onto your skin and cause irritation.
8. Keep Shoes in Plastic Bags
Store your shoes in sealable plastic bags when not in use to prevent any bed bugs from getting inside them while they are not being worn. But be careful not to leave them in the plastic bags for too long, as this could lead to mold and mildew growth.
9. Use Essential Oil
Dilute peppermint, tea tree, or lavender essential oil in water and spray it onto your shoes. These oils have insecticidal properties that can kill bed bugs and their eggs. Let them dry completely before wearing them again.
10. Use Heat Treatment
Some professional pest control companies offer heat treatments for items infested with bed bugs, including shoes. This involves using high heat to kill any bed bugs or eggs hiding in your shoes. It may be a bit pricey, but it is very effective in getting rid of the infestation.
11. Discard Infested Shoes
If the infestation is too severe, it may be best to discard the infested shoes and purchase new ones. This can prevent any further spread of bed bugs to other items or areas in your home. But make sure to properly dispose of the infested shoes to prevent re-infestation or spreading them to others.
12. Treat Your Home
Getting rid of bed bugs in your shoes is just one step in the process of getting rid of an infestation. Make sure to also treat your home for bed bugs to completely eliminate the issue and prevent future occurrences.
This can include washing and drying your clothes and bedding on high heat, vacuuming and disposing of the vacuum bag immediately, using diatomaceous earth or insecticide sprays, and potentially hiring a professional pest control company.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know if My Shoes Have Bed Bugs?
Look for small black or reddish-brown spots on the inside of your shoes, as well as any live insects crawling inside. Check for bites on your feet or ankles after wearing the shoes. Also, make sure to inspect your bed and furniture for signs of a bed bug infestation.
What Should I Do if My Shoes Have Bed Bugs?
Immediately isolate the infected shoes and store them in a sealed plastic bag. Wash and dry the shoes on the highest heat setting possible to kill any bed bugs and their eggs. Vacuum out the insides of your shoes thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and crevices where bed bugs may hide. If the infestation is severe, consider consulting a professional exterminator for further treatment options.
Can Bed Bugs Survive in My Other Shoes?
Bed bugs can potentially spread to other shoes or items stored in close proximity, so it’s important to properly clean and isolate infested shoes as soon as possible. Regularly inspect all of your footwear for any signs of bed bugs to prevent the further spreading of the infestation.
Can I Prevent Bed Bugs From Getting Into My Shoes in the First Place?
To minimize the risk of bringing bed bugs into your home, always inspect hotel rooms and rental properties for any signs of infestation before settling in. Keep your shoes stored off the ground and away from furniture or beds, as these are common hiding spots for bed bugs. Regularly vacuum and clean your home to remove any potential bed bug-hiding spots.
Remember, early detection and swift action are key in preventing a full-blown infestation. Stay vigilant and always check for signs of bed bugs in your shoes and belongings.
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Conclusion
Now you have got to know about how to get rid of bed bugs from shoes. It is important to take the necessary steps to prevent and eliminate a bed bug infestation, including proper cleaning and treating infested shoes.
Remember to also treat your home for any potential bed bugs, as they can easily spread to other areas and items. Stay vigilant in regularly checking for signs of bed bugs to prevent a full-blown infestation.
Bed bugs are a pain to get rid of, but with these tips, you should be able to nip the problem in the bud. Remember to regularly check your shoes and other places where bed bugs might hide out, like cracks and crevices. If you think you have an infestation, contact a professional immediately. With some patience and effort, you can get rid of bed bugs for good!
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