What Bed Bug Treatment Is Used to Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

Q: How can I tell if I have a bed bug infestation?

Look for small reddish-brown spots, shed skins, tiny eggs, or a sweet, musty odour around mattress seams, headboards, or furniture. Bites (especially in a line or cluster) may also signal an infestation, although reactions vary.

Q: What treatments are effective for eliminating bed bugs?

A professional approach is the most effective way to eliminate bed bugs. This typically includes heat treatment, where the room temperature is raised above 50 °C (120 °F) to remove all life stages instantly; steam treatment of mattresses, furniture, and cracks to destroy bugs and eggs on contact; and the use of insecticides applied by trained professionals over multiple visits to ensure complete eradication.

Q: Are DIY methods for bed bugs effective?

No - most DIY solutions are ineffective and can even make the infestation worse. Baking soda does not kill bed bugs, and using bug bombs or foggers is generally ineffective, as they can’t reach the insects hiding deep in cracks and crevices. Professional treatment is strongly recommended by us here at RS Pest Control.

Q: Do I need more than one treatment session?

Yes. Follow‑up treatments and inspections are typically required to catch newly hatched bed bugs and confirm elimination. Most experts recommend at least 2-3 visits, often spaced a few weeks apart. Here at RS Pest Control, we can carry out follow-up inspections and aftercare advice to ensure the problem does not recur.

Q: How should I prepare for and follow up after treatment?

Before treatment, vacuum thoroughly (making sure to seal and discard the vacuum bag afterward), wash and dry all bedding, clothing, and curtains on high heat, and reduce clutter by moving furniture away from walls to give professionals full access. After treatment, avoid vacuuming treated areas for at least three weeks, continue monitoring the space using mattress encasements or traps, and use the room as normal to encourage any remaining bed bugs to come into contact with treated surfaces.

7 August 2025

By Chris

At RS Pest Control, we understand how distressing a bed bug infestation can be. These tiny pests not only cause uncomfortable, itchy bites but also take away peace of mind and a good night’s sleep. If you suspect bed bugs are infesting your living space, it’s important to act promptly with effective treatment methods. In this article, we’ll explain the most commonly used bed bug treatment options to help you make an informed decision when seeking professional pest control.

Contact Us

If you are dealing with an infestation or pest issue of any kind, contact RS Pest Control today for professional and reliable service. Our highly trained team will work quickly and efficiently with minimal disruption to help you restore a comfortable living environment.

02382 320 388

info@rspest.co.uk

Understanding the Challenge of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eradicate because of their resilience, rapid reproduction rate, and ability to hide in the smallest crevices – furniture joints, mattress seams, behind skirting boards, or inside electrical outlets. Traditional DIY methods often prove ineffective, and improper treatment can even worsen the problem by spreading the bugs further.

At RS Pest Control, our approach combines proven, industry-standard techniques with thorough inspection and advice to ensure lasting results.

Chemical Treatment for Bed Bugs

One of the most common methods used by pest control professionals is chemical treatment. This involves applying specially formulated insecticides that target bed bugs at various life stages. When carried out by qualified technicians, chemical treatment is safe, effective, and is usually part of an integrated pest management plan.

The insecticides used are designed to eliminate bed bugs on contact and can also leave a residual effect to target newly hatched bed bugs. Our trained technicians precisely apply these chemicals to common bed bug hiding spots to maximise the treatment’s impact while keeping your family and pets safe.

While chemical treatment is often highly effective, some bed bug populations may develop resistance over time, making it necessary to combine chemicals with other treatment methods to ensure total eradication.

Steam Treatment for Bed Bugs

Steam treatment is a chemical-free alternative that uses high-temperature steam to eliminate bed bugs and their eggs on contact. This method is particularly valuable for treating delicate items that cannot be sprayed with chemicals, such as mattresses, sofas, and soft furnishings.

Bed bugs cannot survive temperatures above 45°C (113°F), and steam treatment rapidly raises the temperature of the affected areas beyond this threshold. The heat penetrates cracks and crevices where bed bugs hide, providing immediate extermination. One significant advantage of steam treatment is its environmental friendliness and suitability for households with young children or pets.

Heat Treatment for Bed Bugs

Heat treatment is one of the most advanced and effective bed bug removal techniques available. This involves elevating the temperature of the entire room or property to around 50°C (122°F) for several hours. At these temperatures, all bed bugs – adults and eggs – are removed.

This method requires specialised equipment and is usually performed as a one-off treatment. Heat treatment allows for the complete eradication of bed bugs without chemicals, making it a preferred option for sensitive environments or customers seeking an eco-friendly solution.

In addition to eliminating the insects, heat treatment can penetrate furniture, mattresses, and other places where bed bugs hide. The process usually takes between 6 to 12 hours, depending on the property size and infestation level.

Why Choose RS Pest Control for Bed Bug Treatment

At RS Pest Control, we personalise every bed bug treatment to suit your specific situation. Our experienced technicians conduct a thorough inspection to identify infestation hotspots and then recommend the most suitable treatment plan. Whether that’s chemical treatment, steam treatment, heat treatment, or a combination of these methods, our goal is to deliver safe and effective results that bring peace back to your home.

We also provide expert advice on how to prepare your property before treatment and steps you can take afterwards to prevent reinfestation. Our commitment to high standards and customer satisfaction means you can trust us to handle even the most stubborn bed bug problems.

If you’re dealing with bed bugs, don’t delay – early intervention can save you significant stress and expense. Get in touch with RS Pest Control today to learn more about our bed bug treatment options. You can also get a quote or arrange for one of our pest control experts to visit your home for an inspection.

Our Reviews

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 119 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Steve Wombwell 
 11/07/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience Jack was brilliant, polite, respectful and explained everything he was going to do.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Melanie Braund 
 30/06/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Unfortunately Jack had to come back to treat my wasp nest. Yet again excellent job. Very professional, explained exactly what he would do and why we may still have wasp Very reassuring. Thank you Jack. Hopefully you won't need to return again. Highly recommend this company. Value for money.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Charlie Yau 
 03/04/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had treatment Wednesday after, calling up in a panic Tuesday day. Charlie and Craig were amazing really reassuring, friendly and down to earth, as I worked myself into a right state, I was very scared on edge. I felt very much at ease, thank you so much on the treatment’s you provided, I can’t thank you enough! I can’t comment on the success of the treatment yet because it’s only been day 2. Again thank you, you and your team are hero’s, I couldn’t do your job.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Michael Cayley 
 09/03/2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I needed our solar panels bird-proofed. RS Pest Control moved fast, including arranging for the erection and dismantling of scaffolding, and were very friendly and helpful when I spoke to them on the phone. Everything was done within ten days. I am very pleased.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   G W 
 20/12/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Cam back out as we weren't happy with the service we received plus cost we paid, so appreciated the effort to make things better. Something should be mentioned from the start that all bate gets removed from 3nd visit so customer knows what to expect.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Julia Kirby 
 05/12/2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently had to contact RS Pest Control and couldn't be more impressed with the service, their professionalism and responsiveness stood out. The technician arrived on time, was courteous, and took the time to expalin the process. They conducted a comprehensive inspection of my property, identifying potential problems areas. The treatment itself was effective and I apprecaited their use of safe products. The treatment has been effective and has provided peace of mind.
The communication from the entire team has been excellent.

I highly recommend RS Pest Control to anyone requiring and effective cost effcient service - customer satisfaction and quality service.
  
 
  
  
 
    Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified that these reviews were published on RS Pest Control Portsmouth's Google Business Profile. Learn more