Steam kills bed bugs and their eggs on contact. Professionals use dry steam, which is very hot but carries little water, so it can go deep into mattress seams, couch cushions and fabric without soaking them.
Best Places for Steam
- Mattress seams, piping and tufts.
- Sofas, recliners and fabric headboards.
- Car seats and children's car seats.
- Pet beds, curtains and fabric items that cannot be tumble dried.
Why a Home Steamer Is Not Enough
Many household steamers lose heat at the nozzle or spray too much water. Pest professionals use commercial units, move slowly along every seam and combine steam with other treatments, since steam kills only what it touches and leaves nothing behind.
- FindThe technician locates where bugs are hiding.
- SteamSeams, tufts and joints are treated slowly and thoroughly.
- EncaseMattresses and box springs often go into bed bug encasements.
- CombineSteam is paired with another method and a follow-up visit.
Steam in Vista Homes
Vista parents often ask for steam on kids' mattresses, stuffed furniture and car seats because it adds no chemicals. It is also useful on a secondhand couch or chair before it comes into the house.
How to Prepare
- Strip beds, then wash and dry the bedding on high heat.
- Clear the floor around beds and seating.
- Tell the technician about any delicate fabrics.
Questions About Steam Treatment
Can steam treat a whole home?
Rarely on its own. Steam works where it touches, so it is usually paired with a method that also treats walls, frames and other rooms.
Is steam safe on my couch?
Most fabrics handle professional dry steam well. Point out leather, silk, velvet or antique pieces so the technician can test them first.
How your call is handled: Bed Bug Control CA is a free referral service. When you call or send the form, you are connected with an independent, licensed pest control company that serves Vista. That company inspects, quotes and does the work.