Question from Jay
Dear Debra, do you recommend heat treatment as a non-toxic pest control option? If yes, what are the precautions that you would recommend taking? For instance, would a heat treatment release chemicals in my home? Is there any item I should “protect” from the treatment?
Thanks in advance.
Debra’s Answer
Yes, I do recommend heat treatment for pest control. I’ve used it myself.
Here’s a good article on heat treatment for pest control that answers your questions about heat and pest control.
New Scientist: Pest control that’s too hot for bugs to handle
Yes, if you heat your home, it will release any volatile toxic chemicals that are there to be released. But that’s an added benefit as far as I’m concerned.
The only thing I am concerned about for heat treatment in general are people, pets, and plants, but you should use your own judgement regarding things like delicate antiques or old plaster.
I recently had a Bed Bug issue in my home. What a nightmare. I was going to go the chemical route..but that was too hazardous to me and my cats. I went with the heat treatment. My home was heated up to 140 degrees. It killed everything in it…but it was done in one day. Very expensive….but well worth it. They will be back with a canine (dog) to “smell” to make sure there is no active infestation.
And candles!