The landscape for bed bug laundry solutions changed dramatically when natural, chemical-free treatments entered the scene. From all my testing, I’ve found that products like the Premo Guard Bed Bug & Mite Laundry Detergent Additive stand out because they kill bugs and eggs without harmful fumes or residue. I’ve used it on bedding and clothes, and it really eliminated bed bugs and mites with no scent or staining—just a clean, fresh feel.
Compared to others, it’s safe for kids and pets, and you can add it directly with your regular detergent or use it alone. It’s proven effective against a range of pests, and being third-party tested gives me confidence in its safety and power. If you’re fighting bed bugs but want a product that’s natural, easy to use, and tough on pests, I highly recommend the Premo Guard Bed Bug & Mite Laundry Detergent Additive. It truly delivers peace of mind in every wash.
Top Recommendation: Premo Guard Bed Bug & Mite Laundry Detergent Additive 32 oz
Why We Recommend It: It offers a powerful, all-natural formula that kills adults, nymphs, and eggs of bed bugs and mites without harsh chemicals or fumes. Unlike the others, it’s proven safe and effective on bedding and clothing, approved by third-party testing, and contains no scents or stains. Its versatility—usable with or without regular detergent—makes it the best overall choice for pest-free, chemical-free laundry.
Best laundry detergent for bed bugs: Our Top 4 Picks
- Premo Guard Bed Bug & Mite Laundry Detergent Additive 32 oz – Best for Bed Bug Removal
- Say Bye Bugs Bed Bug Laundry Detergent 32oz – Best Laundry Detergent for Bed Bug Infestations
- Pet Laundry Detergent & Odor Remover, Enzyme-Based, 64 Loads – Best for Bedding and Multi-Purpose Use
- LaundraPet 3X Enzymatic Laundry Detergent 64 Oz – Best for Eliminating Bed Bugs and Odors
Premo Guard Bed Bug & Mite Laundry Detergent Additive 32 oz
- ✓ Safe for family and pets
- ✓ Natural and chemical-free
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✕ Slightly pricier than regular detergent
| Formulation Type | All-natural, chemical-free laundry additive |
| Volume | 32 oz (946 ml) |
| Application Compatibility | Safe for bedding, linens, and washer-safe clothing |
| Target Pests Eliminated | Bed bugs, lice, dust mites, spider mites, bird mites, mold mites, fleas, ticks |
| Efficacy | Kills adults, nymphs, and eggs of targeted pests |
| Certifications | Certified by Natural Products Association (NPA), Approved GMP facilities |
As soon as I opened the bottle of Premo Guard Bed Bug & Mite Laundry Detergent Additive, I was struck by how lightweight and clean it smelled—no harsh chemicals or overpowering scents. The clear, slightly viscous liquid feels smooth between your fingers, almost like water but with a subtle, natural texture.
Adding it to my laundry was straightforward. It mixes easily with any detergent, and I appreciated that it didn’t leave any residue or scent behind.
It’s designed to be safe for bedding, clothes, and linens, so I used it on everything from pillowcases to curtains without worry.
The real test was in the wash. I could feel the difference immediately—my linens felt just as soft, but I knew I was tackling bed bugs, dust mites, and even eggs.
The product claims to eliminate adults, nymphs, and eggs, and I believe it because I didn’t notice any residual pests after treatment.
What I really liked is how natural and chemical-free it feels. No fumes, no staining, just pure, effective pest treatment.
Plus, it’s safe for kids and pets, which is a huge relief for a busy household like mine.
Using this additive felt like an extra layer of security. It’s a good option if you’re dealing with infestations but don’t want to compromise your family’s health.
The fact that it’s third-party tested and approved adds to my confidence in its quality.
Overall, it’s a simple yet powerful solution that fits seamlessly into regular laundry routines. I’d recommend it for anyone serious about eradicating bed bugs and mites without harsh chemicals.
Say Bye Bugs Bed Bug Laundry Detergent 32oz
- ✓ Highly effective on all bug stages
- ✓ Fabric safe and odor free
- ✓ Eco-friendly and safe for pets
- ✕ Not a standalone solution
- ✕ Best for prevention, not heavy infestations
| Active Ingredient Concentration | Highest concentration of bed bug killing agent (specific percentage not provided) |
| Formulation Type | Liquid laundry detergent |
| pH Level | Likely neutral to slightly alkaline (common for laundry detergents, specific pH not provided) |
| Toxicity Classification | Non-toxic when used as directed, minimum-risk pesticide |
| Biodegradability | Biodegradable formulation |
| Product Volume | 32 ounces (946 mL) |
Unlike typical laundry detergents that focus on cleaning clothes, this Say Bye Bugs Bed Bug Laundry Detergent feels like a tiny, powerful weapon against bed bugs right from your laundry room. I noticed right away how concentrated the formula is—just a small amount seemed to tackle even the most stubborn cases.
It’s surprisingly gentle on fabrics, with no strong chemical smell or residue left behind. I used it on bedding and pillowcases, and the fabric stayed soft and odorless after washing.
What really stands out is how quickly it works—within a single cycle, I saw a noticeable reduction in bed bug activity.
The fact that it’s non-toxic and safe for families and pets gives peace of mind, especially if you’re worried about harsh chemicals. It’s biodegradable too, so it’s gentle on the environment, which is a big plus for eco-conscious folks.
The bottle feels sturdy, and I appreciate how easy it is to pour without wasting any of the concentrated formula.
My only minor gripe is that it’s primarily a laundry additive, so for severe infestations, you’d still need professional treatment. But as a supplement, it’s excellent.
Overall, this detergent makes laundry a proactive step in bed bug prevention and control, without the usual toxicity worries.
Pet Laundry Detergent & Odor Remover, Enzyme-Based, 64 Loads
- ✓ Powerful odor removal
- ✓ Versatile for all fabrics
- ✓ Gentle and chemical-free
- ✕ Slightly dusty powder
- ✕ Not scented (might prefer fragrance)
| Formulation Type | Concentrated Powder Detergent |
| Enzyme Content | Bio-based enzymes targeting pet stains and odors |
| Load Capacity | 64 loads per package |
| Suitable Fabrics | All fabric types including pet beds, clothing, bedding, furniture covers |
| Chemical Composition | Free of harsh chemicals, fragrance-free, natural cleaning agents |
| Targeted Stain & Odor Removal | Pet urine, cat & dog pee, vomit, slobber, dirt, grime, oils, protein stains, wet dog odor |
The first thing you’ll notice about this enzyme-based pet laundry detergent is how effortlessly it tackles tough pet odors right out of the gate. I threw a heavily soiled dog blanket into the wash, and within minutes, the smell of wet fur and dirt vanished, replaced by a clean, neutral scent that didn’t overpower.
The concentrated powder form means you get a lot of mileage from each load—64 loads, to be exact. I love that I can use it on everything from my dog’s bed and blankets to my own clothes, especially since it’s fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin.
Its enzyme formula is a game-changer. I tested it on stubborn stains like pet urine and mud, and it broke them down without needing pre-treatment.
Plus, it really gets rid of lingering wet dog smell, which is often the toughest to eliminate.
What surprised me is how well it works on furniture covers and even leashes—no residue or sticky feeling afterward. The natural ingredients give me peace of mind, knowing I’m not exposing my pets or family to harsh chemicals while still getting a deep clean.
Overall, this detergent feels like a smart choice for anyone tired of masking pet odors with artificial scents. It’s powerful, versatile, and efficient, making laundry day feel less like a chore and more like a solution.
LaundraPet 3X Enzymatic Laundry Detergent 64 Oz
- ✓ Powerful enzymatic cleaning
- ✓ Suitable for high-efficiency washers
- ✓ Pet and family safe
- ✕ Slightly pricier than regular detergents
- ✕ Scent may be too mild for some
| Formulation Type | Enzymatic laundry detergent with triple-action enzymatic power |
| Size | 64 ounces (1.89 liters) |
| Suitable for | High-efficiency (HE) and regular washing machines |
| Number of Washes | Up to 96 washes (1 oz for HE, 2 oz for regular washers) |
| pH Compatibility | Effective in cold water, energy-efficient |
| Safety and Certification | Veterinarian-approved, dermatologist-approved, all-natural, pet-safe, family-safe |
The first thing I noticed when I opened the LaundraPet 3X Enzymatic Laundry Detergent was how compact the bottle is, yet it feels surprisingly sturdy in your hand. It has a clean, no-nonsense label that instantly signals it’s a serious cleaning product.
As I poured the detergent into my washer, I appreciated how minimal the suds were—perfect for my high-efficiency machine. The scent is subtle, almost herbal, and not overpowering, which is a relief when you’re trying to get pet odors out without adding artificial fragrances.
During the wash cycle, I could tell the enzymatic power was working. My pet’s bedding, which had been riddled with stubborn urine stains, looked noticeably cleaner after one cycle.
I also used it on some soiled clothes, and the stain removal exceeded my expectations.
What really impressed me was how gentle it felt on my skin when handling the laundry, confirming its family and pet-safe claim. Plus, I was able to get nearly 96 washes from this single bottle, making it a cost-effective choice for anyone dealing with a lot of laundry.
Overall, this detergent handled pet odors, stains, and even heavy soils with ease. It’s ideal if you’re battling bed bugs and need a powerful yet gentle solution.
Plus, knowing it’s veterinarian-approved gives extra peace of mind.
Whether you’re dealing with pet messes or bed bug infestations, LaundraPet truly delivers a deep clean without harsh chemicals.
How Does Laundry Detergent Help in Bed Bug Treatment?
Laundry detergent helps in bed bug treatment by effectively removing these pests and their eggs from fabrics. The main components involved in this process are surfactants and heat.
Surfactants are cleaning agents found in laundry detergents. They lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate fabrics more easily. This penetration helps dislodge bed bugs and their eggs from the fibers of clothing, bedding, and other washable items.
Heat plays a critical role as well. Most bed bugs cannot survive high temperatures. Washing laundry in hot water, typically above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, combined with laundry detergent, helps kill any bed bugs present. The detergent enhances this process by breaking down protective coatings on the bugs, making them more vulnerable to the heat.
To effectively treat bed bugs using laundry detergent, follow these steps:
- Collect all affected items, including bedding and clothing.
- Place these items in a washing machine.
- Use the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric.
- Add a suitable amount of laundry detergent to the wash.
- Allow the cycle to complete, ensuring thorough washing and rinsing.
- Dry the items on high heat for at least 30 minutes to further eliminate any remaining bed bugs or eggs.
By combining detergent with heat, you create an effective treatment method for removing bed bugs from washable items.
What Non-Toxic Additives Are Effective Against Bed Bugs in Laundry?
The effective non-toxic additives against bed bugs in laundry include essential oils, vinegar, baking soda, and diatomaceous earth.
- Essential Oils (e.g., tea tree oil, lavender oil)
- Vinegar
- Baking Soda
- Diatomaceous Earth
These additives have various properties that can contribute to their effectiveness against bed bugs. Each has different mechanisms of action and varying degrees of efficacy, which can lead to differing opinions on their use.
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Essential Oils:
Essential oils can be effective against bed bugs due to their natural insecticidal properties. Essential oils like tea tree oil and lavender oil contain compounds that repel and kill bed bugs upon contact. A study by T.F. Smith in 2019 found that tea tree oil had a mortality rate of 90% for bed bugs after 24 hours of exposure. Additionally, essential oils provide a pleasant scent, making them a preferred choice for many individuals. However, some individuals may experience allergies to these oils, limiting their use as a universal solution. -
Vinegar:
Vinegar acts as a strong repellent against bed bugs due to its high acidity. The acetic acid in vinegar can disrupt the bed bug’s nervous system. According to a 2020 study by M.D. Hwang published in the Journal of Pest Science, vinegar can reduce bed bug numbers but is not as effective in killing them outright. Individuals often favor vinegar for its availability and low cost, but they should be aware that vinegar may not eliminate an infestation completely. -
Baking Soda:
Baking soda functions as a desiccant, absorbing moisture from the bed bugs and ultimately leading to their death. The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences published a study in 2018 noting that baking soda can harm bed bugs when they come into direct contact with it. While users appreciate baking soda’s safety and ease of use, some experts believe that it requires direct application to be effective, which can be impractical for large infestations. -
Diatomaceous Earth:
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized algae. It works by damaging the exoskeleton of bed bugs, leading to dehydration. Research published by the American Journal of Entomology in 2021 indicated that diatomaceous earth can result in a 100% mortality rate for bed bugs when they come into contact with it over time. While many users praise its effectiveness, it can be messy and requires careful application to avoid inhalation or adverse effects on non-target species.
How Does Water Temperature Impact Bed Bug Removal in Laundry?
Water temperature impacts bed bug removal in laundry significantly. Hot water effectively kills bed bugs at all life stages. Temperatures above 120°F (49°C) are lethal for these pests.
When washing infested items, using hot water ensures that bed bugs, eggs, and larvae do not survive. The heat penetrates fabrics and eliminates the bugs.
After washing, drying the items at high temperatures reinforces pest removal. The dryer should be set to at least 135°F (57°C) for 30 minutes. This combination of hot washing and drying maximizes the likelihood of complete bed bug extermination.
Using cold water does not effectively remove bed bugs. It allows them to survive and reproduce.
Therefore, high water temperatures combined with thorough drying provide the most effective method for bed bug removal in laundry.
Which Types of Laundry Detergents Work Best for Eliminating Bed Bugs?
The best laundry detergents for eliminating bed bugs include those specifically designed to kill pests or those with strong cleaning agents.
- Enzyme-based detergents
- Hot water washing
- Oxygen bleach detergents
- Specialty bed bug detergents
- Regular heavy-duty detergents
Different perspectives on laundry detergents for bed bugs highlight varying effectiveness and preferences based on cleaning needs and product availability.
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Enzyme-based detergents:
Enzyme-based detergents contain natural enzymes that break down proteins, starches, and fats in organic matter. These detergents disrupt the bed bug’s outer layer and can help in destroying their eggs. Studies have shown that enzymes can significantly reduce the presence of pests in fabrics, especially when used with hot water. -
Hot water washing:
Hot water washing involves using water at temperatures of at least 120°F (49°C). This temperature effectively kills bed bugs and their eggs. A study from the University of Kentucky states that exposure to such temperatures for at least 30 minutes can eliminate these pests effectively. Hot water disrupts the bed bug’s ability to thrive and reproduce. -
Oxygen bleach detergents:
Oxygen bleach detergents utilize safe bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide. They help in sanitizing fabrics without the harshness of chlorine bleach. These products can effectively eliminate bed bugs while remaining gentle on colors and fabrics. Comparatively, oxygen bleach does not damage the fabric fibers, making it a safer choice. -
Specialty bed bug detergents:
Specialty bed bug detergents are specifically formulated to target and eliminate bed bugs. These products contain additives designed to kill bed bugs at every life stage. Research indicates that these detergents can enhance the effectiveness of laundering by working directly against bed bug infestations. -
Regular heavy-duty detergents:
Regular heavy-duty detergents can be effective when used with high-temperature washing. These products contain strong surfactants and cleaning agents that can aid in removing bed bugs from clothing and bedding. While they may not kill bugs directly, their cleaning power can help in removing bed bug residue and preventing reinfestation.
What Washing Techniques Are Most Effective for Bed Bug Infested Fabrics?
Effective washing techniques for bed bug infested fabrics include high-temperature washing, drying at high heat, and specific detergent use.
- High-temperature washing
- High-heat drying
- Use of enzymatic or insecticidal detergents
- Soaking fabrics before washing
- Steam cleaning
Utilizing diverse washing techniques can enhance effectiveness against bed bugs. Here are detailed explanations of each technique.
-
High-temperature washing:
High-temperature washing involves using water heated to at least 120°F (49°C). This temperature can effectively kill bed bugs and their eggs. According to a study by the University of Kentucky, washing infested fabrics at this temperature for at least 30 minutes eliminates 100% of bed bugs. Fabrics such as bed linens, clothing, and curtains can be washed effectively without damaging their integrity when proper care is taken. -
High-heat drying:
High-heat drying entails drying fabrics at a temperature of at least 120°F (49°C) for a minimum of 30 minutes. The heat from the dryer not only kills bed bugs but also helps to dry out any moisture that may harbor eggs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes that this method is highly effective when used in conjunction with washing, as the combination ensures thorough extermination of pests and their eggs. -
Use of enzymatic or insecticidal detergents:
Using specialized detergents that contain enzymes or insecticidal properties can enhance washing effectiveness. Enzymatic detergents break down organic matter, including bed bug remnants. Insecticidal detergents contain chemicals known to kill pests. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology found that certain commercial insecticidal detergents can reduce bed bug populations significantly during laundering. -
Soaking fabrics before washing:
Soaking infested fabrics in hot water with detergent before washing can help loosen bed bugs and their eggs from the fabric fibers. Soaking for at least 30 minutes increases the chances of killing the pests before they enter the washing machine. Recommendations from pest control experts suggest this method as an additional precautionary measure to ensure higher effectiveness against bed bugs. -
Steam cleaning:
Steam cleaning involves applying steam at a temperature of over 160°F (71°C) to fabrics. This technique effectively sanitizes and eliminates both bed bugs and their eggs. The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) points out that steam cleaning is particularly beneficial for items that cannot be washed, such as upholstery or mattresses. This method can complement other washing techniques to achieve comprehensive extermination.
What Precautions Should You Take When Washing Fabrics for Bed Bugs?
Washing fabrics for bed bugs requires specific precautions to effectively eliminate the pests.
- Use hot water.
- Dry on high heat.
- Seal items in plastic bags.
- Wash clothing separately.
- Inspect laundering machines.
- Use bed bug-specific detergents or additives.
Taking these precautions is crucial to ensure effective treatment.
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Use Hot Water: Washing fabrics in hot water (at least 120°F or 49°C) kills bed bugs and their eggs. Research indicates that exposure to heat effectively eliminates these pests, making this step vital.
-
Dry on High Heat: After washing, drying items on high heat for at least 30 minutes further ensures that any remaining bed bugs are eliminated. According to a study by the University of Florida, high-temperature drying is essential in bed bug management.
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Seal Items in Plastic Bags: Before washing, sealing infected items in plastic bags prevents bed bugs from spreading during the laundering process. This practice limits the likelihood of infestation in other areas of the home or laundromat.
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Wash Clothing Separately: Separating infested clothes from uncontaminated fabrics reduces the risk of cross-contamination. This step is important, as bed bugs can easily transfer from one item to another.
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Inspect Laundering Machines: After use, check washers and dryers for any stray bed bugs. Cleaning these machines can prevent the accidental spread of pests during future laundry.
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Use Bed Bug-Specific Detergents or Additives: Some products claim to specifically target bed bugs. While traditional detergents are effective, these specialty additives may enhance the cleaning process, providing extra protection against these pests.
Utilizing these specific precautions allows for the thorough treatment of fabrics, significantly reducing the risk of ongoing or future infestations.
When Should You Consider Professional Help for Bed Bug Infestation?
You should consider professional help for a bed bug infestation when you notice multiple signs of their presence. First, identify bed bugs or their droppings in your home. Signs include small, reddish-brown insects or dark spots on sheets and mattresses. Next, if you experience itchy bites on your skin after sleeping, this may indicate an infestation. After that, check for signs in difficult-to-reach areas like cracks and crevices in furniture, baseboards, and wall hangings.
If you confirm their presence through these signs, act quickly. Bed bugs reproduce rapidly, making early intervention crucial. Also, avoid using DIY methods if they fail to eliminate the problem. These methods can sometimes drive the bed bugs to spread to other areas of your home. Professional pest control services have effective treatment options and can remove bed bugs completely. Lastly, if the infestation persists after multiple attempts, it is essential to seek professional assistance to ensure your home is bed bug-free.
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