What is the minimum temperature required for a 90-minute heat treatment for bedbugs?

The minimum temperature required for a 90-minute heat treatment for bedbugs is 118°F. This temperature is effective in killing bedbugs and their eggs, ensuring that the heat penetrates into areas where these pests might be hiding. The specific temperature is crucial because bedbugs have a known tolerance to lower temperatures, which means that simply exposing them to moderate heat may not suffice.

At 118°F, bedbugs begin to experience thermal shock, leading to death within the exposure time of 90 minutes. This standardized heating strategy is widely recognized in pest control practices, where precise temperature and duration are key to effectively control infestations. Keeping the temperature at or above this threshold is essential to ensure that all life stages of bedbugs, including eggs and adults, are eradicated effectively. This understanding of thermal death kinetics is vital for ensuring successful pest management strategies.