Bed bugs are one of the most frustrating household pests to deal with, especially because they hide in fabrics like pillows, mattresses, and bedding. If you’ve discovered signs of an infestation, you might be wondering: can you put pillows in the dryer to kill bed bugs?
The short answer is yes—a dryer can be an effective tool for killing bed bugs in pillows, but only when used correctly. In this guide, you’ll learn how it works, what temperature is needed, and how to safely treat pillows without damaging them.
Does the Dryer Kill Bed Bugs in Pillows?
Yes, a clothes dryer can kill bed bugs in pillows when the heat is high enough and applied for long enough.
Bed bugs are highly sensitive to heat. Exposure to temperatures of around 45–50°C (113–122°F) or higher can kill bed bugs and their eggs. A standard home dryer on a high-heat cycle often reaches or exceeds this range, making it a practical at-home treatment method.
However, simply tossing pillows in the dryer isn’t always enough—you need the right settings and duration.
How to Use a Dryer to Kill Bed Bugs in Pillows
To effectively eliminate bed bugs from pillows using a dryer, follow these steps:
1. Check the Pillow Material
Before drying, make sure your pillow can withstand high heat. Most polyester and cotton pillows are safe, but memory foam or latex pillows may be damaged by heat.
2. Use High Heat
Set your dryer to the highest heat setting available. Heat is the key factor that kills both bed bugs and their eggs.
3. Dry for at Least 30–60 Minutes
Run the dryer for at least 30 minutes on high heat after the items are fully heated up. For heavy or thick pillows, 60 minutes is safer.
4. Don’t Overload the Dryer
Give pillows enough space for hot air to circulate. Overcrowding reduces heat effectiveness.
Washing vs. Drying: What Works Better?
While drying alone can kill bed bugs, combining methods is even more effective:
- Washing first: Hot water washing helps remove bed bugs and debris.
- Drying second: High heat ensures any surviving bugs or eggs are destroyed.
If you can only choose one, drying is often more effective than washing alone because heat penetrates deep into fabric layers.
Can the Dryer Kill Bed Bug Eggs in Pillows?
Yes, but only if the heat is sustained.
Bed bug eggs are more resistant than adult bugs, so:
- Low heat or short drying cycles may not be enough
- Consistent high heat for at least 30–60 minutes is required for full eradication
This is why a proper drying cycle is critical.
Important Safety and Effectiveness Tips
To make sure the treatment works:
- Always use high heat, not air fluff or low heat
- Avoid stopping the cycle too early
- Shake pillows before and after drying
- Immediately store treated pillows in sealed bags if reinfestation is a concern
If infestation is severe, drying pillows alone will not solve the problem—you may need to treat your mattress, furniture, and surrounding areas as well.
What Types of Pillows Can Go in the Dryer?
Not all pillows are safe for heat treatment.
Usually safe:
- Cotton pillows
- Polyester-filled pillows
- Feather and down pillows (check care label)
Not recommended:
- Memory foam pillows
- Latex pillows
- Gel-infused pillows (may warp or degrade)
Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before using high heat.
Limitations of Using a Dryer for Bed Bugs
While effective, dryers have limits:
- Only treats items placed inside
- Does not eliminate bed bugs hiding in mattresses, walls, or furniture
- Requires correct temperature and timing to be effective
For full eradication, dryers should be part of a broader pest control strategy.
FAQ
Can bed bugs survive the dryer?
No, not if the dryer reaches high heat (around 50–60°C or more) and runs long enough. Short or low-heat cycles may allow survival.
How long does it take to kill bed bugs in a dryer?
Typically 30–60 minutes on high heat after full heating is recommended.
Should I wash pillows before drying them for bed bugs?
Washing helps, but drying is the critical step that actually kills bed bugs and eggs.
Will one dryer cycle be enough?
Often yes for pillows, but only if done correctly with high heat and sufficient time.
Conclusion
So, can you put pillows in the dryer to kill bed bugs? Absolutely—but only if you use high heat for the right amount of time. A dryer is one of the simplest and most effective DIY methods for treating infested pillows, especially when combined with proper washing and broader home treatment.
If you suspect a larger infestation, consider treating your entire sleeping area, not just your bedding, to fully eliminate the problem.
