Vacuuming and Steaming Vs. Spraying
While vacuuming and steaming alone may not completely control your bed bug problem, they are important steps in the process. When you vacuum or steam, you can eliminate large amounts of your bed bug problem at once. A smaller problem is easier to handle than a large problem, so vacuuming and steaming are highly recommended.
That being said, people typically use a vacuum or a steamer in tandem with some kind of pest control or insecticide. There are several different products and product lines that offer bed bug elimination and protection.
Most people prefer a fast-acting, contact insecticide. Most of these products can be used on surfaces that are often used, like beds, furniture, and pillows. Insecticides that include residual protection are best because they will continue to keep bed bugs away after you’ve sprayed for them.
Additionally, there are also dust insecticides that are great for cracks and crevices. Dust is good for places that can’t get wet, like electrical outlets. Small places like this are popular entryways for bed bugs and other insects, so it’s important to protect them.
When it comes to vacuuming and steaming versus spray and preventative products, one method is not necessarily better than the other. Rather, these items work best when they are used together. Vacuuming and steaming will give you temporary relief as well as a clean slate, and when followed up with a spray or dust, will give you lasting results and protection.