How Dry Cleaning Eliminates Bed Bugs From Your Clothes

Yes, dry cleaning can eliminate bed bugs from your clothes. The high heat used in the dry cleaning process, combined with specialized solvents, effectively kills bed bugs and their eggs. Bed bugs are incredibly resilient and can hide in the seams and folds of your clothing, making traditional washing methods less effective. Dry cleaning offers a more thorough solution by subjecting clothes to temperatures and chemicals that bed bugs simply cannot survive. In this blog, we will explore how dry cleaning works as a method to eliminate bed bugs and why it’s a preferred solution for infested garments.

1. Why Dry Cleaning is Effective for Bed Bugs:

Dry cleaning works by exposing clothes to high temperatures, which is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs. The process typically involves a cleaning cycle where garments are subjected to heat, usually between 160°F and 180°F, which is more than enough to eliminate adult bed bugs, larvae, and eggs. Additionally, dry cleaning solvents further assist in exterminating any lingering pests that might be hiding in your clothes. Since bed bugs cannot survive extreme temperatures or certain chemicals, dry cleaning offers a dual-action approach to their removal.

2. The Role of Heat in Dry Cleaning:

Heat plays a crucial role in dry cleaning’s effectiveness against bed bugs. Bed bugs and their eggs die when exposed to temperatures above 120°F, and the dry cleaning process far exceeds this threshold. By penetrating deep into the fabrics, heat kills any bed bugs hiding in the seams or pockets. This method is especially beneficial for items like delicate fabrics, which cannot be washed in hot water but still require thorough determination.

3. Solvents Used in Dry Cleaning for Bed Bug Removal:

In addition to heat, the use of specialized dry cleaning solvents ensures that bed bugs are thoroughly eliminated. Traditional washing methods may not effectively reach all parts of the garment, but dry cleaning solvents can penetrate deeply into fabrics. These solvents dissolve oils, dirts, and other substances, and they also help kill insects, making it nearly impossible for bed bugs to survive the treatment. Furthermore, many dry cleaners use eco-friendly solvents that are both effective and safe for your clothes and the environment.

4. Avoid Reinfestation After Dry Cleaning:

While dry cleaning can eliminate bed bugs from your clothes, it’s important to avoid reinfestation once your garments are treated. Store your clean clothes in sealed bags or containers, especially if you’re dealing with a home infestation. It is also recommended to inspect and treat other items such as bedding, mattresses, and furniture to prevent bed bugs from returning. Consistently monitoring your living environment will ensure that your dry-cleaned clothes remain bed bug-free.

5. When to Seek Professional Help for Bed Bugs in Clothing:

If you suspect that your clothing is infested with bed bugs, seeking professional dry cleaning services is essential. Trying to wash or treat these garments at home may not fully resolve this issue, as bed bugs are resilient and can survive standard laundering. Professional dry cleaners have the expertise, tools, and methods to effectively eliminate bed bugs while protecting your clothing. However, it’s crucial to check with your dry cleaner before bringing in infested garments. Not all dry cleaners handle bed bug treatments, and some may have specific procedures to ensure safe and effective cleaning. Trusting a reliable dry cleaner can give you peace of mind, knowing that your clothes are properly treated and bug-free.

Contact Hangers Cleaners Today

If you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation in your clothing, Hangers Cleaners is here to help. Our expert dry cleaning services in Little Rock are designed to thoroughly eliminate bed bugs while preserving the quality and integrity of your garments. We also offer convenient pick-up and delivery services throughout Pulaski and Saline counties in Arkansas. Be sure to contact us ahead of time if you’re dealing with bed bugs, so we can guide you through the process. Call (501) 227-8500 to schedule your free laundry pick-up or delivery today, and rest assured that your clothes are in capable, professional hands.