Home Health & Wellness Bed Bugs Hate This! How Diatomaceous Earth and Cloves Can Wipe Them Out

Bed Bugs Hate This! How Diatomaceous Earth and Cloves Can Wipe Them Out

by Shelly

Tired of waking up with itchy bites? Sick of tiny invaders turning your bed into their playground? Bed bugs are a nightmare – resilient, sneaky, and annoyingly hard to eliminate.

But don’t panic just yet! Instead of chemical-laden sprays, you can fight back with two powerful, natural warriors: diatomaceous earth and cloves.

These household ingredients pack a serious punch against bed bugs, offering a safe and effective alternative to harsh pesticides. Ready to reclaim your home? Let’s dive in.

Why Diatomaceous Earth and Cloves Work Against Bed Bugs

1. Diatomaceous Earth Dehydrates and Kills Bed Bugs on Contact

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine, powdery substance made from crushed fossilized algae. Sounds harmless, right? Not for bed bugs.

This powder acts like microscopic glass shards, piercing their exoskeletons and absorbing their protective oils, leaving them to dehydrate and die within hours to days.

Studies show that food-grade diatomaceous earth is 90% effective in controlling bed bug infestations when applied correctly. Unlike sprays that lose potency over time, DE keeps working as long as it stays dry.

So, once you apply it to cracks, crevices, and mattress seams, those pesky bugs don’t stand a chance!

2. Cloves Contain Eugenol, a Natural Insecticide

Cloves aren’t just for spicing up your holiday drinks! These fragrant buds contain eugenol, a powerful compound known for its insecticidal properties.

Eugenol disrupts bed bugs’ nervous systems, causing paralysis and death. The strong scent of cloves also acts as a natural repellent, making it harder for bed bugs to thrive in your home.

In a study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology, clove essential oil was found to kill bed bugs on contact while deterring new infestations.

Regular use of clove oil spray can create an inhospitable environment, forcing them to flee.

3. Both Remedies Are Non-Toxic and Safe for Humans

Unlike chemical pesticides that expose you to toxic fumes, diatomaceous earth, and cloves are safe for people and pets when used correctly. Food-grade DE is even edible! (Not that we’re suggesting you sprinkle it on your toast.)

This makes them perfect for households with kids, pets, or sensitive individuals who can’t tolerate harsh insecticides. You can apply DE around sleeping areas or spray diluted clove oil on furniture without worrying about harmful residues.

4. Long-Term Protection Against Future Infestations

The beauty of these two natural remedies? They don’t just kill bed bugs; they help prevent them from coming back!

Diatomaceous earth stays active as long as it’s dry, creating an ongoing death trap for any bugs that dare return. Clove’s lingering scent repels new intruders, making your home less inviting to these unwelcome guests.

A few strategic applications can keep your home bed-bug-free for months!

5. Cost-Effective and Easily Accessible

Professional bed bug extermination can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, and many chemical treatments require multiple applications.

Why break the bank when you can fight bed bugs with ingredients you probably already have at home?

A pound of diatomaceous earth costs less than $15, and a small bottle of clove oil costs around $10 – both lasting for multiple treatments. This DIY approach saves money while being just as effective as commercial solutions.

How to Use Diatomaceous Earth and Cloves for Bed Bug Control

Want to kick bed bugs to the curb? Follow these simple steps for a powerful, all-natural elimination strategy.

Step 1: Deep Clean and Declutter

  • Wash all bedding, clothes, and curtains in hot water (at least 120°F) and dry on high heat. Heat kills bed bugs instantly.
  • Vacuum mattresses, furniture, and carpets thoroughly, paying close attention to cracks and crevices.

Step 2: Apply Diatomaceous Earth

  • Using a duster or a fine sieve, lightly sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth in these areas:
    • Around mattress seams and bed frames
    • Under furniture and along baseboards
    • Inside cracks, crevices, and wall outlets
  • Leave the powder undisturbed for 48–72 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
  • Repeat weekly for 4–6 weeks to ensure all bed bugs and eggs are eliminated.

Step 3: Make a Clove Spray

  • Mix 10–15 drops of clove oil with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
  • Shake well and spray on mattresses, furniture, and potential hiding spots.
  • For extra protection, place whole cloves in corners of your bed frame, under furniture, and inside drawers to repel bed bugs.

Step 4: Monitor and Reapply as Needed

  • Repeat DE applications and clove sprays once a week until you no longer see signs of bed bugs.
  • Continue using clove oil as a preventative measure to keep your home bug-free.

Cautions and Precautions

While diatomaceous earth and cloves are safe when used properly, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

  • Use only food-grade DE, not the pool-grade version, which can be harmful when inhaled.
  • Avoid inhaling diatomaceous earth dust, as it can irritate the lungs. Wear a mask while applying.
  • Clove oil is potent; always dilute it before applying it to surfaces to prevent skin irritation.
  • Pregnant women, young children, and pets should avoid prolonged exposure to clove oil, as its strong scent can cause sensitivity.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional pest control advice. Always test remedies in small areas first and consult an expert if bed bug infestations persist.

Bed Bugs Hate This! How Diatomaceous Earth and Cloves Can Wipe Them Out

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