A bed bug infestation can cause you to rush out and look for a quick solution. Unfortunately, impulse buying can make you end up with a steam cleaner that won’t do a good job. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve gathered the 5 best steamers for bed bugs on the market in 2025.
Quick Picks: Best Steamers for Bed Bugs in 2025
Our #1 Rated
People’s Choice
Professional Choice
- Best Steamer for Bed Bugs Comparison: At-a-Glance Overview
- What Makes the Best Bed Bug Steamer for Your?
- Top 5 Best Steamers for Bed Bugs
- Best Budget Handheld Steamers for Bed Bugs
- Preparing for Steam Treatment: Essential Steps
- How to Use a Steamer for Bed Bugs
- Surfaces Safe for Steam Treatment
- Combination Strategies: Integrating Steam with Other Treatments
- Cost Analysis: Steamer Treatment vs. Professional Extermination
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Best Steamer for Bed Bugs Comparison: At-a-Glance Overview
| Steamer Model | Tank Size | Max Steam Time | Temperature | Heat Up Time | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vapamore MR-100 Primo | 54 oz | 60 min | 210-220°F | 11 min | Whole-house treatment | $$$ |
| McCULLOCH MC1385 | 64 oz | 120 min | 200°F | 12 min | Extended treatments | $$ |
| Polti Cimex Eradicator | 68 oz | 60-120 min | 356°F | 12 min | Professional use | $$$$ |
| Steamfast SF-370 | 45 oz | 45 min | 200°F | 8 min | Budget option | $$ |
| Wagner 915 | 48 oz | 45 min | 200°F | 12 min | Budget option | $$ |
| DBTech Handheld | 6 oz | 15-20 min | 210°F | 3 min | Spot treatments | $ |
| BISSEL SteamShot | 12 oz | 15 min | 200°F | 60 sec | Quick spot treatments | $ |
This comprehensive comparison shows key specs for each model. Price ranges from $ (under $50) to $$$$ (over $400). The right steamer for you depends on your specific needs – from quick spot treatments with handheld models to professional-grade options for severe infestations.
What Makes the Best Bed Bug Steamer for Your?
Vulnerability to high temperature is one of the bed bug’s true weaknesses. Studies have found that bed bugs die when exposed to temperatures of 120-140°F (around 50-60°C). Steam forms when water passes its boiling point of 212°F (100°C), which is considerably higher than the kill temperature.
The intense heat of a steam cleaner kills these tiny pests as well as their eggs on contact. It can penetrate fabric surfaces up to about ¾” and cracks and crevices up to 2-4″. A steamer has the added advantage of being eco-friendly, killing bed bugs with just vaporized water, so no dangerous chemicals are required.
Temperature
The best steamers produce steam around 200°F or more at the tip consistently. This ensures they hit bugs with lethal heat above 120°F.
Capacity
Large water tanks allow continuous steaming without frequent refills, preventing bugs from escaping to cooler areas.
Control
Pressure adjustment knobs let you modify steam output for different surfaces – higher for mattresses and couches, lower for carpets and wood.
Attachments
Various attachments suit different needs: steam lances for cracks, triangle tools for fabric, and rectangle tools for large surfaces.
Top 5 Best Steamers for Bed Bugs
After thorough research and testing, these five steamers stand out as the most effective for eliminating bed bugs in 2025:
Vapamore MR-100 Primo - Best Dry Vapor Steamer
Our #1 Rated
How Does It Work
How to Use
- Fill the tank with water using the included measuring cup
- Wait approximately 11 minutes for the water to heat up
- Use the steam gun and appropriate attachment to target bed bug hiding spots
- Move slowly (about 1 inch per second) to ensure lethal heat penetration
- Focus on seams, tufts, and crevices where bed bugs hide
- Multi-surface usage
- Adjustable pressure
- Long power cord
- Heats quickly
- Easy to clean
- Childproof locking
- Difficult to store
- Requires regular maintenance (every 3 months)
- Some durability concerns
McCULLOCH MC1385 Deluxe - Best Canister Steam Cleaner
People's Choice
How Does It Work
How to Use
- Fill the tank with water using the included measuring cup
- Wait approximately 12 minutes for heating
- Select the appropriate attachment for your cleaning surface
- Use the convenient trigger lock for continuous steaming
- Move slowly and methodically across infested areas
- Naturally deep cleans with commercial-level performance
- Extremely long steam time (120 minutes)
- Powerful and easy to use
- Convenient locking steam button
- Long cord and hose for extended reach
- Slightly noisy operation
- Risk of burns from very hot steam
- Cannot refill while hot
Polti Cimex Eradicator - Best Professional Bed Bug Steamer
Professional Choice
How Does It Work
How to Use
- Find areas in your home where bed bugs are present
- Fill the 68 oz reservoir with water and wait for heating (12 minutes)
- Hold the steamer approximately 18 inches away from the surface
- Move slowly back and forth across infested areas
- Continue treatment until all suspected areas are covered
- Powerful cleaning with industry-leading 356°F steam
- Generous water capacity for extended use
- No chemicals needed
- High-quality construction with excellent materials
- Quiet operation
- Risk of burns from extremely hot nozzle
- Can make floors wet
- Higher price point than consumer models
Steamfast SF-370 Canister Steam Cleaner
Budget Option
How Does It Work
How to Use
- Fill the 45 oz tank with water
- Allow 8 minutes for heating (fastest in our lineup)
- Choose from 15 different accessories based on the surface
- Use smooth rolling wheels to navigate throughout your home
- Clean and sanitize surfaces while eliminating bed bugs
- More affordable than premium models
- Quick 8-minute heat-up time
- Good mobility with quality wheels
- Sufficient 200°F temperature
- Versatile with 15 accessories
- Shorter run time than premium models
- Smaller tank requires more refills
- Less durable construction
Wagner 915 Power Steamer and Cleaner
Great Value
How Does It Work
How to Use
- Fill the tank with water up to the recommended level
- Allow 12 minutes for the water to heat
- Use the 8-foot hose with extension tubes for better reach
- Adjust the nozzle to control steam flow as needed
- Target areas where bed bugs hide such as mattress seams and furniture cracks
- Budget-friendly option
- Excellent steam pressure (48 PSI)
- Red light indicator for ready steam
- Chemical-free sanitizing
- Durable construction
- No water-level indicator
- Longer heat-up time
- Short power cord
- Unit gets very hot during use
Best Budget Handheld Steamers for Bed Bugs
Top Handheld Steamers Under $50
Best Budget Pick
Fast Heat-Up
If you have a very tight budget, you may need to consider a cheaper steam cleaner for bed bugs. While these handheld models don’t offer the same power or capacity as full-sized units, they can still be effective for smaller infestations or spot treatments. Additionally, it’s important to complement any steam cleaning efforts with effective vacuuming to ensure a thorough treatment. When researching options for pest control, don’t overlook the best vacuum options for bed bugs, as they can help remove debris and pests that a steam cleaner might miss. By combining both steam cleaning and vacuuming, you can create a more comprehensive strategy for tackling bed bug infestations on a budget.
DBTech Handheld Multi-Purpose Pressurized Steam Cleaner
Best Budget Pick
How Does It Work
How to Use
- Fill the 6 oz tank with water
- Wait just 3 minutes for heating
- Use the included attachments to target specific areas
- Focus on seams, cracks, and crevices where bed bugs hide
- Refill as needed during longer treatment sessions
- Very affordable price point under $50
- Quick 3-minute heat-up time
- Compact and lightweight design
- Sufficient 210°F temperature
- Easy to store and transport
- Small tank requires frequent refilling
- Limited 15-20 minute steam time
- Less powerful than canister models
- Not suitable for large infestations
BISSEL SteamShot Hard Surface Steam Cleaner
Fast Heat-UpHow Does It Work
How to Use
- Fill the tank with water using the included measuring cup
- Wait just 60 seconds for heating (fastest in our roundup)
- Select from 11 different attachments based on the surface
- Use the trigger to control steam flow as needed
- Treat areas where bed bugs are found or suspected
- Kills bed bugs with 100% natural cleaning
- Extremely fast 60-second heat-up time
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Comes with many attachments for different surfaces
- Chemical-free operation is safe around family and pets
- Attachments can be difficult to clean
- Limited run time compared to larger models
- Smaller tank requires more frequent refilling
Preparing for Steam Treatment: Essential Steps
Effective bed bug steam treatment requires proper preparation. Follow these steps to maximize the effectiveness of your steaming session and ensure safety:
- Clear the Area Remove clutter from the treatment area, as bed bugs hide in all kinds of objects. Clear floors, remove items from under beds, and minimize decorative items. Store clean items in sealed plastic bags after inspection.
- Launder Fabrics First Wash all removable fabrics (bedding, curtains, clothing) in hot water and dry on high heat before steaming the room. This eliminates bugs that might be hiding in these items and prevents reinfestation after treatment.
- Move Furniture Pull furniture away from walls to allow access to baseboards, corners, and the back of furniture pieces where bed bugs often hide. Disassemble bed frames if possible to access all joints and crevices.
- Vacuum Thoroughly Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove as many visible bed bugs as possible before steaming. Focus on seams, cracks, and crevices. Seal and dispose of the vacuum bag outside immediately after use.
- Plan Your Route Map out a systematic steaming route to ensure you don’t miss areas or accidentally push bed bugs into already-treated sections. Generally, work from the top of the room downward and from the furthest point from the door toward the exit.
- Test Surfaces Before full application, test steam on inconspicuous areas of fabrics, wood, and other materials to ensure they won’t be damaged by the high heat and moisture.
Pre-Treatment Checklist
Create a steaming schedule, gather all necessary equipment (steamer, extension cords, infrared thermometer), and allocate enough time (2-3 hours for an average bedroom).
Personal Protection
Consider wearing gloves to protect from steam burns. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot bed bugs that might try to escape during treatment.
How to Use a Steamer for Bed Bugs
Using a steam cleaner correctly is crucial for effectively eliminating bed bugs. Here’s how to get the most out of your bed bug steamer:
- Vacuum First Thoroughly vacuum the areas you intend to treat. This will make the steam cleaner more effective by removing some bugs and eggs. Seal your vacuum bag and dispose of the contents outside your house.
- Read Instructions Carefully read your steamer’s instructions to avoid damaging your items, the machine, or burning yourself.
- Work Top to Bottom Start steaming from the top of a room and work your way down. For example, begin with drapes and finish with floorboards.
- Use Proper Attachments When possible, use larger head attachments to prevent scattering bugs. Steamers with pressure control valves offer better precision.
- Move Slowly Don’t move the steam cleaner faster than 1 inch per second, and keep the nozzle tip about 1-2 inches from the surface you’re treating.
- Allow Drying Time Let steamed surfaces dry completely before applying encasements to prevent mold growth.
Surfaces Safe for Steam Treatment
A steam cleaner doesn’t leave toxic residue on your items, making it safe for most household surfaces. Here are the surfaces that can be effectively treated with steam:
Mattresses & Bedding
Furniture & Upholstery
Carpets & Rugs
Steam treatments are effective on mattresses, box springs, bedding, furniture, moldings, rugs, carpets, walls, floorboards, ceilings, and cabinets. The high heat can penetrate fabrics and crevices where bed bugs hide.
Combination Strategies: Integrating Steam with Other Treatments
While steam treatment is effective at killing bed bugs on contact, comprehensive bed bug elimination typically requires a multi-faceted approach. Here’s how to combine steam treatment with other methods for maximum effectiveness:
Steam + Vacuuming
- Vacuum thoroughly before steaming to remove visible bugs
- Steam kills remaining bugs and eggs in cracks and crevices
- Vacuum again 24-48 hours after steaming to remove dead bugs
- This combination provides immediate reduction in bug populations
Steam + Encasements
- Steam mattresses and box springs thoroughly
- Allow to dry completely (4-6 hours minimum)
- Apply quality bed bug-proof encasements
- Traps any surviving bugs inside where they eventually die
Steam + Residual Treatments
- Steam kills bugs immediately on contact
- Apply residual insecticides 24-48 hours after surfaces dry
- Insecticides provide long-term protection against reinfestation
- Never apply insecticides before steaming (heat breaks down chemicals)
Cost Analysis: Steamer Treatment vs. Professional Extermination
Understanding the cost implications of different bed bug treatment options can help you make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown comparing DIY steam treatment versus professional extermination services:
| Treatment Option | Initial Cost | Long-term Cost | Effectiveness | Time Investment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Handheld Steamer | $30-$70 | Potential repeated treatments or upgrading to better equipment | Moderate (spot treatments only) | High – multiple sessions needed |
| Mid-Range Canister Steamer | $150-$300 | One-time investment with proper maintenance | Good for most home infestations | Medium – systematic treatment required |
| Professional-Grade Steamer | $300-$1,000+ | One-time investment with proper maintenance | Excellent, comparable to professional treatment | Medium – faster with high-quality equipment |
| Steamer Rental | $35-$100/day | Multiple rental sessions may be needed | Depends on quality of rental unit | High pressure to complete in rental period |
| Professional Exterminator (Chemical) | $300-$600 per room | Often requires 2-3 treatments ($600-$1,800 total) | Good to excellent with reputable companies | Low – experts handle the work |
| Professional Heat Treatment | $1,500-$3,000 for whole home | Usually one-time treatment if successful | Excellent, often 100% effective in one treatment | Low – experts handle the work |
DIY Steam Treatment
Investing $200-300 in a quality steamer can save $1,000+ compared to professional services. Best for those willing to put in time and effort, and for preventative maintenance after professional treatment.
Multiple Rooms/Apartments
For multi-room infestations or apartment buildings, professional heat treatment becomes more cost-effective, averaging $2 per square foot versus $3-5 per square foot for DIY room-by-room treatment.
Long-Term Value
Quality steamers provide value beyond bed bug treatment – useful for general cleaning, allergen reduction, and other pest control, amortizing the cost over years of household use.
Hidden Costs
Consider time investment (2-3 hours per room), physical effort, learning curve, and potential property damage from improper steaming techniques when calculating true DIY costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hot does a steamer need to get to kill bed bugs?
For effective bed bug elimination, steamers should reach 160-180°F (75-80°C) at the surface contact point. Bed bugs and their eggs die when exposed to temperatures above 120°F, but the higher temperature ensures rapid killing and accounts for some heat loss as the steam travels from the nozzle to the surface. Professional-grade steamers that maintain temperatures of 200°F or higher at the tip are ideal for ensuring lethal temperatures reach the bugs in their hiding places.
Where can I rent a steamer to kill bed bugs?
The best places to rent bed bug steamers include Home Depot, Lowe’s, and ACE Hardware. Home Depot typically offers the most comprehensive selection of rental steamers with various rental periods to suit your needs. Some pest control companies also offer steamer rentals specifically designed for bed bug treatment. Always confirm that the rental steamer can reach at least 200°F before renting.
Can a hair dryer kill bed bugs?
No, a hair dryer cannot kill bed bugs effectively. While bed bugs die at temperatures above 120°F, standard hair dryers don’t maintain consistent high enough temperatures to be lethal. Additionally, the airflow from hair dryers can scatter bed bugs and eggs to new locations, potentially spreading the infestation. Proper steam cleaners designed for pest control are required to reach and maintain the necessary 160-180°F at the surface.
How long does it take to kill bed bugs with steam?
Bed bugs and their eggs die almost instantly when directly exposed to steam at 160-180°F. However, effective treatment requires slow, methodical application, moving at about 1 inch per second to ensure proper heat penetration. A complete treatment of an average-sized bedroom might take 2-3 hours, including preparation time. For severe infestations, multiple treatments spaced 1-2 weeks apart may be necessary to eliminate all bugs and newly hatched eggs.
What’s the difference between a commercial and residential steamer for bed bugs?
Commercial-grade bed bug steamers typically offer higher temperatures (above 300°F in some cases), larger water tanks (up to 2 gallons), longer steam times (up to 3 hours), and more robust construction. Residential steamers generally provide temperatures around 200-220°F, smaller tanks (under 64 oz), shorter steam times (30-60 minutes), and more plastic components. Commercial models like the Polti Cimex Eradicator are designed for professional exterminators and severe infestations, while residential units are suitable for home maintenance and smaller infestations.
Should I use a dry vapor steamer or a wet steamer for bed bugs?
Dry vapor steamers are strongly preferred for bed bug treatment. These machines produce superheated steam with minimal moisture (about 5-6% water content), preventing excess dampness that could lead to mold growth in mattresses and furniture. Wet steamers create more saturated steam that can damage electronics, wooden furniture, and wall materials while requiring longer drying times. The Vapamore MR-100 Primo is an example of an effective dry vapor steamer that kills bed bugs without oversaturating your belongings.
Is steaming enough to completely eliminate a bed bug infestation?
While steam treatment is highly effective at killing bed bugs and their eggs on contact, it’s rarely sufficient as a standalone treatment for established infestations. For comprehensive bed bug control, steam should be used as part of an integrated pest management approach that includes: vacuuming before and after steaming, applying appropriate insecticides to cracks and crevices, using bed bug-proof mattress encasements, washing and heat-treating bedding, and implementing bed bug interceptors under furniture legs. Multiple steam treatments spaced 2-3 weeks apart are also recommended.
Can I use a carpet cleaner or clothing steamer to kill bed bugs?
Standard carpet cleaners and clothing steamers are generally ineffective against bed bugs for several reasons: they typically don’t reach the necessary 160-180°F killing temperature, they often produce too much moisture which can damage furniture and promote mold growth, and they lack the specialized attachments needed to target bed bug hiding spots. Purpose-built bed bug steamers like those reviewed in this article provide the right combination of high heat, controlled moisture, and appropriate attachments to effectively eliminate bed bugs without damaging your belongings.
How can I verify my steamer is reaching temperatures hot enough to kill bed bugs?
To verify your steamer reaches bed bug-killing temperatures, use an infrared thermometer to measure the surface temperature immediately after steaming. For effective treatment, surfaces should reach at least 160-180°F. Test various surfaces (mattress, carpet, wood) as heat retention varies by material. Some professional steamers include built-in temperature gauges, but for most consumer models, a separate infrared thermometer ($20-40) is essential for confirming lethal temperatures. Remember that the temperature drops quickly with distance from the nozzle, so maintain the recommended 1-2 inch distance during treatment.
Are steam cleaners safe to use on all furniture and fabrics?
Steam cleaners are not safe for all materials. Avoid using steamers on delicate fabrics like silk, velvet, and some synthetic materials which can warp or discolor. Don’t steam finished or varnished wood surfaces, as heat can damage finishes and cause warping. Never use steamers on electronics, electrical outlets, or any water-sensitive equipment. Before treating any valuable or sensitive item, test steam on an inconspicuous area first. For items that cannot be steamed, consider alternative bed bug treatments like appropriate insecticides or heat chambers designed specifically for furniture treatment.
Conclusion
Using a quality steam cleaner is one of the most effective and eco-friendly methods for eliminating bed bugs. The intense heat kills both adult bugs and eggs without exposing your family to harmful chemicals.
When choosing a steamer for bed bugs, prioritize models that maintain temperatures of at least 200°F at the tip and have sufficient tank capacity for continuous operation. Professional-grade models like the Vapamore MR-100 Primo and Polti Cimex Eradicator offer superior performance but come at higher price points.
For those on a budget, options like the McCULLOCH MC1385 and Steamfast SF-370 provide excellent value while still delivering the necessary heat to kill bed bugs. In cases of small infestations or spot treatments, even affordable handheld steamers can be effective when used properly.
Remember that while steam cleaning is labor-intensive, requiring physical effort and time, it’s a highly effective tool in your bed bug elimination arsenal. When used correctly and combined with other methods like vacuuming and encasements, steam treatment can help you reclaim your home from these persistent pests.
I have a large area for steam cleaning . I think i should to focus on Time.
Thanks for your review those.