The scientific theory behind eliminating bed bugs with baking soda is based on the chemical properties of baking soda when itโs introduced to water. There are various fluids in a bed bugโs shell, so when they come in contact with baking soda, the baking soda absorbs that fluid and causes them to become completely dehydrated. The baking soda granules will also cut through the bugโs shell and cause internal bleeding.ย
While this method may succeed in eliminating some bed bugs, itโs not a solution that will work at scale. To completely eliminate an infestation, some combination of heat treatment and/or insecticide will probably be needed.
Aside from baking soda, the internet offers many other at-home bed bug treatments you can try. While itโs unlikely any of these will succeed in eliminating a full-blown bed bug infestation, it may be worth a try first before you hire a professional bed bug exterminator.
Some popular DIY bed bug removal methods include talcum powder, rubbing alcohol, mothballs, diatomaceous earth, and tea tree oil.