Steam Cleaning
Non-chemical pest control using high-temperature steam to kill pests, eggs, and larvae on contact.
Detailed Overview
Steam cleaners produce temperatures of 160-180°F that instantly kill pests and their eggs on contact. Steam penetrates cracks, fabrics, and porous materials where pests hide. This method is particularly effective for bed bugs, which are killed at temperatures above 120°F. Steam cleaning also sanitizes surfaces, removes grease and food residues, and can help prepare areas for other treatments. The moisture from steam dissipates quickly, and the treatment leaves no chemical residue.
When to Use
Highly effective for bed bug treatment in mattress seams, furniture, and baseboards. Also useful for sanitizing commercial kitchen equipment, removing cockroach grease trails, and treating fabric items that cannot be laundered.
Required Skill Level
Requires some training and experience in pest management
Benefits
- Kills pests and eggs on contact
- No chemical residue
- Penetrates cracks and fabrics
- Sanitizes while treating
- Immediately effective
- Removes grease and food sources
Limitations
- Requires specialized equipment
- Cannot treat electrical equipment
- Does not provide residual protection
- May damage heat-sensitive materials
- Labor-intensive
- Can cause moisture issues if overused
Related Concepts
Other techniques that may be useful
Crack and Crevice Treatment
Pesticide application method that places insecticides directly into cracks, crevices, and voids where pests hide, minimizing exposure to people and pets.
HEPA Vacuuming
Non-chemical pest removal using High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum cleaners to physically remove pests, eggs, droppings, and allergens.
Exclusion and Sealing
Preventing pest entry by sealing cracks, gaps, and openings in building structures using durable materials.