There are several chemicals that can kill bed bugs, but not all of them are effective in permanently getting rid of them. Here are some of the most commonly used chemicals for bed bug control:
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Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids: These are the most common compounds used to control bed bugs and other indoor pests. Pyrethrins are botanical insecticides derived from chrysanthemum flowers, while pyrethroids are synthetic chemical insecticides that act like pyrethrins. Both compounds are lethal to bed bugs and can flush bed bugs out of their hiding places and kill them.
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Desiccants: Desiccants work by destroying the waxy, protective outer coating on a bed bug. Once this coating is destroyed, the bed bugs will slowly dehydrate and die. Desiccants are a valuable tool in bed bug control.
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Chlorfenapyr: This is the only pesticide registered to kill bed bugs. It affects the bed bugs at the cellular level, disrupting their system and leading to death. This chemical becomes deadly when it enters the insect’s body. The bug can no longer move energy between cells, which causes it to die.
It is important to note that bed bugs can develop resistance to certain chemicals, so it is recommended to use pesticides that differ in their mode of action to reduce the likelihood of resistance. Additionally, most insecticides that are available to the public will not kill bed bugs, and often the bugs just hide until the insecticide dries up and is no longer effective. Therefore, it is best to consult a pest control professional for effective and safe bed bug control.
