Introduction: Natural Bed Bug Repellent

By ChippTips
About: Hey, my name is Chipp. I am a jack of all trades and how-to guru. I enjoy blogging about health, fitness, pest control and product reviews. I consider myself the luckiest person on Earth. I don’t drive a fancy…

Having bed bugs is a very serious issue that you will need to handle properly. I have been helping people get rid of bed bugs for the past 3 years so I have seen the devastation it causes families. One question I get asked often is about using a bed bug repellent.

While there are no repellents that exist that can get rid of bed bugs on their own, there are a few items that can deter bed bugs from biting you. These natural bed bug repellents must be used correctly. If you have ever dealt with this type of infestation then you know how mentally grueling it is. Using a natural repellent can help by providing much needed relief. However, you'll still need to take additional steps if you desire a permanent solution.

Step 1: Understanding Why Bed Bugs are so Difficult to Get Rid of

There are many factors that make these insects notoriously difficult to kill. Bed bugs can harbor inside of tiny cracks anywhere in your home. They only show themselves at night while you are sleeping. Making matters worse, they can live up to 1 year without feeding! All they need to do is nestle into a natural hiding place until your extermination efforts are complete.

The problem with getting rid of bed bugs is finding a substance that is toxic enough to eliminate them without harming humans and pets. Also, in order to reach every insect, you need a substance with residual insecticidal properties. Bed bug repellents will work great for repelling and killing bed bugs but they will not provide residual protection. Unless you can get these substances on every single bug, egg and nymph, they will keep coming back.

If you need a complete pest control plan to get rid of bed bugs for good, watch the quick YouTube video below. Despite common belief, this is something you can accomplish yourself. Getting rid of bed bugs is not an easy task but you can save a lot of money with a little bit of persistence and hard work.

Step 2: How to use a Natural Repellent

Natural bed bug repellents can be very effective if used properly. Despite a few limitations, they are still an important piece of the solution. Let’s learn more about what you can use to keep these critters at bay. These pest are making your life a nightmare, so let’s return the favor!

We'll start with a recipe for a natural bed bug repellent you can use for instant relief. Neem essential oil is a highly treasured skin care treatment in many parts of the world. Its popularity is just starting to grow in the United States and European countries.

What the heck is neem oil?

Neem essential oil is extracted from bark, leaves, fruits and seeds of a neem tree. It is an evergreen tree found in dry regions of India, Asia and Africa. It is treasured for its gentle yet powerful medicinal qualities. Studies have shown that neem oil is a powerful natural remedy for fungi, viruses, bacteria, inflammation and microorganisms. Recent research has also show neem oil to be a natural bed bug repellent

Directions for use:

  1. After taking a shower, apply a few drops of neem oil to your hands massaging it into your skin.
  2. Use the least amount of oil while still managing to cover every part of your body. Some people complain about the smell, but I personally enjoy it. It is safe to apply to your face and neck as well.
  3. You can also wipe neem onto bed frame and posts for a little extra repelling power. Just remember that the insecticidal action of this natural bed bug repellent only last for about 1 week.

I just want to remind you one more time that neem oil should not be relied on to control a bed bug infestation. There is no single oil, chemical or insecticide that will eliminate bed bugs by itself. If you need a complete solution, watch the video above to learn everything you need to know.

Step 3: Additional Natural Protection

Diatomaceous Earth can also be used as a powerful bed bug repellent. It is a 100% natural powder that is safe for people and animals. However, it is extremely abrasive to insects such as bed bugs, roaches, ants, etc. Diatomaceous earth is extremely effective but it does have its limitations as well. Once insects come into contact with the powder, it may take a few days before they die. A hungry insect may decide to crawl through it for a meal. Fortunately, you can take satisfaction in knowing that it will be its last!

  1. After a good cleaning session, apply DE to the affected areas:
  2. Spread DE along carpet edges where your carpet meets the wall. Treat the entire room. This will also help to keep them contained to that area.
  3. Along Mattress seems. This is one of their favorite places to hide.
  4. Around bed posts that contact the floor. Try to create a full barrier.
  5. Any other areas you notice insect traffic or eggs.

Step 4: Don’t stop there!

Using Diatomaceous earth and neem oil as natural bed bug repellents won’t be enough to kill the entire infestation. Exterminating bed bugs is major warfare. For more resources on exterminating these pests naturally, I highly recommend watching the YouTube video above. If you have any questions please leave them in the comment section below. I wish you the best of luck with your pest control project!