The Heat Myth: Why Electric Blankets Don’t Work

Yes, bed bugs hate extreme heat. But the kind of heat they hate and the kind of heat you feel from an electric blanket are two very different things.

To kill bed bugs and their eggs, you need to maintain temperatures of:

• 113°F (45°C) for over 90 minutes, or
  

• 120°F (49°C) to 135°F (57°C) for 30+ minutes

Now, consider this: most electric blankets top out at around 80°F to 110°F—comfortable for humans, but nowhere near hot enough to be lethal to bed bugs.

So What Actually Happens?

Instead of killing the bugs, the warm blanket may do the opposite:

• Attract them. Bed bugs are drawn to warmth and CO₂, the same things you produce when you’re cozy and sleeping.
  

• Create hiding spots. The folds and seams of the blanket are perfect nesting areas—warm, close to the host (you), and often undisturbed.

Electric Blankets: A False Sense of Security

Let’s be clear: bed bugs aren’t choosing where to bite based on what’s hot or cold. They’re feeding machines, and they go where the food is.

Using an electric blanket:

• Does NOT prevent bites
  

• Does NOT deter infestations
  

• May actually increase the risk of bugs nesting near you

If you're using one in hopes of deterring them, you're essentially rolling out the red carpet and offering room service.

What Actually Works: A Smarter Bed Bug Battle Plan

If you're looking for real results, here’s what does make a difference—and why heat still holds the crown when done right.

1. Professional-Grade Heat Treatment Systems

Convectex heaters are designed to safely reach the high temperatures needed to kill bed bugs and their eggs—without damaging your space or belongings.

• Ideal for individual rooms, apartments, and full homes
  

• Chemical-free and environmentally safe
  

• Easy to use, powerful, and designed for both pros and DIYers
  

2. Build a DIY Heat Chamber

Need to treat luggage, furniture, electronics, or clothing? Use Convectex equipment to build a custom heat chamber in a spare room or closet.

• Perfect for repeat treatments
  

• No ongoing chemical use
  

• Flexible and cost-effective over time

👉  Learn how to make your own bed bug heat chamber. 

3. Partner with a Trusted Pro

Not into DIY? No problem. We’ll connect you with certified pest control pros who use Convectex systems in the field every day.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re in property management, hospitality, or real estate—owning your own system can save thousands in repeat extermination fees.

Final Word: Knowledge is Power

It’s tempting to hope that an electric blanket might help—but unfortunately, wishful thinking won't stop a persistent parasite. In fact, it might make things worse.

Bed bugs are survivors. But so are you.

And with the right tools, knowledge, and plan—you can take back control.

Ready to Fight Back?

Explore our DIY Heat Treatment Packages and reclaim your sleep, your space, and your sanity. Whether you’re treating a home, a rental, or a commercial space, Convectex has your back—with industry-leading tools and expert support.

View Our Treatment Package Options: 

👉  Homeowners + DIYers

👉  Professional Heat Packages

👉  Hotel Bed Bug Heat Packages

👉  Apartment Heat Packages

Looking for Certified Bed Bug Heat Treatment Providers Near You?: 

👉  Visit Our Certified Providers Page