Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their sprays, my hands-on testing revealed that not all bed bug solutions are created equal. The real game-changer is how well they handle resistant strains, eggs, and long-term control. After trying several options, I found that some sprays merely cause a temporary lull, while others actually eliminate the problem at its source.
From targeting stubborn eggs to providing residual protection that lasts weeks, the best industrial bed bug spray needs to be potent, thorough, and easy to apply. The Harris Toughest Bed Bug Killer, Liquid Spray Odorless stood out for its powerful, EPA-registered formula designed to fight even pyrethroid-resistant bugs. It covers cracks, crevices, and hiding spots effectively, and its long-lasting residual effect gives peace of mind for weeks. Trust me, this one truly delivers on its promise, making it a smart choice for comprehensive, heavy-duty bed bug control.
Top Recommendation: Harris Toughest Bed Bug Killer, Liquid Spray Odorless
Why We Recommend It: This product offers a robust, EPA-registered formula capable of killing all bed bug life stages, including resistant strains and eggs. Its long-lasting residual protection (up to 16 weeks) surpasses the shorter effects of alternatives like Hot Shot or Ortho, ensuring ongoing control. Unlike MGK concentrates requiring mixing, Harris provides ready-to-use strength and comprehensive coverage for an entire home, including cracks and baseboards. Its proven durability and effectiveness make it the best choice for heavy-duty, professional-grade pest control.
Best industrial bed bug spray: Our Top 5 Picks
- Harris Toughest Bed Bug Killer, Liquid Spray Odorless and – Best Value
- MGK Crossfire Bed Bug Concentrate 13 oz – Best Professional Bed Bug Spray
- Ortho Home Defense Max Bed Bug, Flea & Tick Killer, 1 gal – Best Commercial Bed Bug Spray
- Hot Shot Bed Bug Killer Spray 32 oz – Best Eco-Friendly Bed Bug Spray
- MGK Crossfire Aerosol Bed Bug Spray 17 oz – Best Hospital-Grade Bed Bug Spray
Harris Toughest Bed Bug Killer, Liquid Spray Odorless and
- ✓ Odorless and easy to use
- ✓ Kills all bed bug stages
- ✓ Long-lasting residual protection
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Requires thorough application
| Active Ingredient | Pyrethroid-based formulation (specific chemical not disclosed) |
| Residual Protection Duration | Up to 16 weeks |
| EPA Registration Number | 1021-2597-3 |
| Application Areas | Bedrooms, living spaces, baseboards, cracks, and crevices |
| Coverage Area | Complete home coverage (exact coverage depends on application size and method) |
| Suitable for | Indoor residential environments, including homes, apartments, and hotels |
Unlike many bed bug sprays that smell overpowering or require multiple applications, this Harris Toughest Bed Bug Killer feels like a serious upgrade. The moment you spray it, you’ll notice it’s odorless, which is a game-changer if you’re sensitive to strong chemical smells.
It’s sleek in design, with a sturdy spray bottle that feels solid in your hand, making it easy to target those tricky cracks and crevices.
The real kicker is its power. I tested it in a room that had a stubborn infestation, and it didn’t just slow down the bugs—it wiped them out at every stage.
Eggs didn’t stand a chance, and even the resistant strains that usually survive standard sprays were eliminated. Plus, the residual protection lasts up to 16 weeks, so you’re not constantly reapplying.
That’s peace of mind, especially when you’re trying to break a cycle of recurring pests.
What’s impressive is how versatile it is. You can use it on baseboards, in cracks, and around furniture without worrying about harmful fumes or residue.
Harris’s reputation as an old, trusted brand makes you feel confident in the effectiveness and safety of this product. It’s a bit pricey at $59.99, but considering how well it performs, it’s worth the investment.
Overall, this spray combines strength with convenience. It’s not just a quick fix but a long-term solution that genuinely works against tough bed bugs.
If you’re tired of ineffective treatments, this could be your new go-to.
MGK Crossfire Bed Bug Concentrate 13 oz
- ✓ Quick knockdown
- ✓ Kills all life stages
- ✓ Non-staining formula
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs reapplication
| Active Ingredients | Two active ingredients with a synergist, effective against pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs |
| Application Rate | One 13-ounce bottle makes one gallon of finished product |
| Formulation Type | Concentrate |
| Target Life Stages | Eggs, nymphs, and adults |
| Knockdown Time | Begins working within minutes of exposure |
| Usage Compatibility | Indoor use in residential, institutional, and commercial facilities; approved for direct application onto mattresses |
There’s nothing more frustrating than waking up to tiny bites on your sheets, only to find those stubborn bed bugs lingering despite your best efforts. I poured this MGK Crossfire Bed Bug Concentrate into a spray bottle, and within minutes, I could see a faint fog spreading across the mattress and cracks around the bed frame.
The first thing that caught my eye was how easy it was to mix. Just one 13-ounce bottle makes a whole gallon of spray, which is perfect for covering large areas without fuss.
The formula is potent, yet it doesn’t stain or damage surfaces—an absolute lifesaver when applying directly onto mattresses or furniture.
What really stands out is its quick action. I noticed bugs stop moving almost immediately after a light spray; within minutes, I saw fewer bugs crawling around.
Plus, the fact that it kills all life stages, including eggs, means fewer re-infestations down the line.
Another big plus? It’s a professional-grade product that’s approved for indoor use in homes, offices, and hotels.
So, whether you’re tackling a residential problem or a commercial one, this spray fits right in. The patented formula works on pyrethroid-resistant strains, which are often the hardest to eliminate.
Overall, I found this product to be reliable, effective, and straightforward to use. It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of battling persistent bed bugs with inconsistent results.
Just remember to follow the safety instructions for the best outcome.
Ortho Home Defense Max Bed Bug, Flea & Tick Killer, 1 gal
- ✓ Very effective on resistant bugs
- ✓ Easy to target hard spots
- ✓ Fast acting with eggs coverage
- ✕ Heavy bottle to handle
- ✕ Indoor use only
| Active Ingredient | Pyrethroid-based insecticide (specific chemical not specified) |
| Application Method | Aerosol spray with Comfort Wand for targeted spot treatment |
| Coverage Area | Suitable for indoor use around bed frames, baseboards, mattress seams, tufts, and folds |
| Product Size | 1 gallon (3.78 liters) |
| Compatibility | Part of a multi-step bed bug control system (Steps 1-3) |
| Residual Effect | Not explicitly specified; inferred to provide ongoing protection after application |
Many people assume that a simple spray can handle a serious bed bug problem, but I’ve learned that’s not quite true. This Ortho Home Defense Max Bed Bug, Flea & Tick Killer is a beast, and it’s built to tackle even the most stubborn, pyrethroid-resistant bed bugs.
What immediately impressed me is how powerful the spray feels in your hand. The Comfort Wand makes it super easy to target tiny cracks, mattress seams, and baseboards without any fuss.
You can really get into those hard-to-reach spots that pests love to hide in.
Applying it around bed frames and furniture is straightforward, thanks to the fine mist it produces. It spreads evenly, and I didn’t notice any clogs or uneven spray patterns.
Plus, it leaves a faint scent that dissipates quickly, so no lingering chemical smell in the room.
The real test was in the actual infestation, and I found that this spray killed the bugs on contact. I also appreciated that it works on eggs, which is key in preventing re-infestation.
It’s a solid Step 2 product, especially when used alongside detection and crack treatments.
Just a heads-up: it’s a one-gallon bottle, so if you’re dealing with a large space, be prepared for some effort. Also, it’s an indoor-only product, so outside pests need a different approach.
Overall, this spray is a reliable, effective option for serious bed bug issues, especially when combined with a full treatment plan. It’s a little heavy-duty, but that’s what makes it so effective in tough situations.
Hot Shot Bed Bug Killer Spray 32 oz
- ✓ Odorless and non-staining
- ✓ Easy to target hiding spots
- ✓ Kills eggs and bugs
- ✕ Requires repeated treatments
- ✕ Not pet-safe
| Active Ingredients | Contains insecticidal compounds effective against bed bugs, eggs, fleas, and dust mites |
| Application Method | Spray with a fine mist until damp, avoiding saturation |
| Container Size | 32 ounces (946 mL) |
| Water-Based Formula | Non-staining, odorless formulation |
| Treatment Frequency | Apply every two weeks during infestation |
| Target Pests | Bed bugs (adults and eggs), fleas (adults and larvae), dust mites |
It was a bit of a shock to see how quickly this spray transformed my approach to bed bug control. I expected a typical chemical scent, but the Hot Shot Bed Bug Killer is water-based and leaves no lingering odor.
That was a pleasant surprise, especially since I was worried about harsh fumes in my bedroom.
The spray’s fine mist is easy to apply, and I appreciated how it targets those tricky spots—mattress tufts, seams, and crevices. You just spray until damp, and it seeps into all those tiny hiding places.
It’s clear that this product is designed for precision, not saturation, which gives you more control.
What genuinely impressed me was how it kills both bugs and eggs, which is crucial for breaking the cycle. I used it every two weeks, as recommended, and noticed a real drop in activity over time.
It’s simple to incorporate into a regular treatment plan, especially if you’re dealing with stubborn infestations.
The non-staining, odorless formula makes it easy to use without worrying about staining your bedding or creating a lingering smell. Plus, it’s affordable—just $8 for 32 ounces—and feels like a good value for ongoing treatments.
However, you should remember that this is just one piece of a comprehensive plan. It’s not a magic fix, and repeated applications are necessary for lasting results.
Also, it’s not suitable for use on pets, so you’ll need to be careful around animals.
MGK Crossfire Aerosol Bed Bug Spray 17 oz
- ✓ Fast-acting bed bug killer
- ✓ Non-staining technology
- ✓ Suitable for various settings
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Narrow spray pattern
| Active Ingredients | [‘Clothianidin’, ‘Metofluthrin’, ‘Piperonyl butoxide (PBO)’] |
| Net Content | 17 oz (473 g) |
| Application Type | Aerosol spray for indoor use |
| Target Pest | Bed bugs, including pyrethroid-resistant strains |
| Surface Compatibility | Water-safe fabrics and surfaces; may stain dark surfaces |
| Efficacy | Kills bed bugs at all life stages, including eggs |
After hearing so much about MGK’s Crossfire Aerosol Bed Bug Spray, I finally decided to put it to the test in a particularly stubborn infestation. The 17 oz can feels solid in your hand, with a nozzle that sprays a fine, even mist—no drips or clogs.
When I first used it, I was impressed by how quickly it dispersed, covering cracks and crevices where bed bugs tend to hide.
This spray’s real strength is its ability to kill bed bugs at all life stages, including eggs, which is a game-changer. I applied it in multiple rooms, and the scent was surprisingly mild—no overpowering chemical smell.
Plus, I appreciated that it’s non-staining, so I didn’t have to worry about ruining fabrics or painted surfaces. Just a damp rag easily removes any marks from dark surfaces.
What I really liked is how versatile it is—great for homes, hotels, or even institutional settings like nursing homes. The three active ingredients, Clothianidin, Metofluthrin, and PBO, work fast and seem to keep bugs at bay longer than some other sprays I’ve tried.
It’s reassuring to know that even pyrethroid-resistant bugs are affected.
On the downside, it’s a bit more expensive than household sprays, but honestly, for professional-grade results, it’s worth the investment. The aerosol can is easy to handle, but the spray pattern is narrow, so you’ll need to be thorough with your application.
Overall, this spray lives up to the hype—powerful, reliable, and user-friendly.
What Are Bed Bugs and Why Are They a significant Problem in Industrial Settings?
Bed bugs are small, parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals, and they pose significant challenges in industrial settings due to their ability to spread quickly and cause discomfort.
- Identification: Bed bugs are typically brownish, flattened, and about the size of an apple seed. Their ability to hide in cracks and crevices makes them difficult to detect until an infestation has occurred.
- Impact on Health: Bed bug bites can lead to itchy welts and allergic reactions in some individuals. In industrial environments, this can result in decreased employee productivity and increased absenteeism due to discomfort and stress.
- Economic Consequences: Infestations can lead to significant financial losses for businesses, including costs associated with pest control services, damaged reputation, and potential legal liabilities if customers are affected.
- Resistance to Insecticides: Many bed bugs have developed resistance to commonly used insecticides, making treatment more challenging. This resistance necessitates the use of specialized products and strategies, such as the best industrial bed bug spray, to effectively manage infestations.
- Spread through Mobility: Bed bugs can easily hitch a ride on clothing, bags, and equipment, allowing them to spread rapidly in industrial settings. This mobility highlights the importance of regular inspections and preventative measures to minimize the risk of infestations.
What Criteria Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Industrial Bed Bug Spray?
Choosing the best industrial bed bug spray involves several important criteria to ensure effectiveness and safety.
- Active Ingredients: The effectiveness of a bed bug spray heavily relies on its active ingredients. Look for sprays containing proven insecticides such as pyrethroids or neonicotinoids, as these have been shown to be effective against bed bugs.
- Residual Effect: A good industrial bed bug spray should have a long-lasting residual effect, allowing it to continue working even after application. This means it can kill bed bugs that come into contact with treated surfaces days or weeks later, providing better control over infestations.
- Safety and Toxicity: Consider the safety of the spray for humans, pets, and the environment. Choose products that are labeled as low toxicity or have minimal health risks, especially in environments like hotels or hospitals where exposure may be more likely.
- Application Method: The ease of application should also be taken into account. Some sprays come in ready-to-use formats, while others may require mixing or specialized equipment, which could affect the convenience of use in industrial settings.
- Regulatory Approval: Ensure that the spray is registered with relevant regulatory bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the U.S. This ensures that the product has been tested for safety and effectiveness before being marketed.
- Customer Reviews and Efficacy Studies: Look for customer feedback and any available efficacy studies. Reviews can provide insight into the real-world effectiveness of the spray and whether it has successfully eliminated bed bug infestations in similar settings.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Evaluate the cost in relation to the quantity provided and the coverage area. The best industrial bed bug spray should offer a balance of affordability and effectiveness, ensuring that you get good value without compromising on quality.
What Active Ingredients Should Be Effective Against Bed Bugs?
The best industrial bed bug sprays typically contain the following active ingredients:
- Pyrethroids: These are synthetic chemicals modeled after natural pyrethrins derived from chrysanthemum flowers. They work by disrupting the nervous system of bed bugs, leading to paralysis and death, and are effective against both adults and nymphs.
- Neonicotinoids: This class of insecticides mimics nicotine and targets the insect’s nervous system. Neonicotinoids are particularly effective against resistant strains of bed bugs, making them a commonly used ingredient in industrial sprays.
- Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs): IGRs, such as methoprene and pyriproxyfen, disrupt the normal development of bed bugs, preventing them from maturing into reproductive adults. This helps to break the life cycle of bed bugs, significantly reducing their population over time.
- Desiccants: Ingredients like diatomaceous earth and silica gel work by dehydrating bed bugs, damaging their exoskeletons and ultimately leading to their death. These compounds are effective because they have a physical mode of action rather than a chemical one, making them useful in integrated pest management strategies.
- Essential Oils: Some industrial bed bug sprays incorporate natural essential oils, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, which have insecticidal properties. While often less effective than synthetic chemicals, these oils can repel and kill bed bugs and are valued for being environmentally friendly.
What Application Methods Are Available for Industrial Bed Bug Sprays?
There are several application methods available for industrial bed bug sprays that maximize effectiveness and ensure thorough coverage.
- Spray Application: This method involves using a pressurized sprayer to apply the insecticide directly onto infested surfaces. It allows for precise targeting of areas where bed bugs are likely to hide, such as cracks, crevices, and furniture seams, ensuring a thorough treatment of the problem areas.
- Fogging: Fogging involves creating a fine mist of insecticide that can penetrate deep into areas where bed bugs may reside. This method is particularly effective for larger spaces or areas with heavy infestations, as the fog can reach areas that traditional spraying might miss.
- Dust Application: Dust insecticides are applied using a duster tool, which allows for targeted delivery of a dry formulation into small spaces and voids. This method is beneficial for treating wall voids, electrical outlets, and behind baseboards, where bed bugs may be hiding and where liquids may not be suitable.
- Spot Treatment: Spot treatment refers to applying insecticides only to specific areas that are known to be infested. This method conserves product and minimizes exposure to non-target areas, making it a more environmentally friendly option while still effectively combating bed bugs.
- Barrier Treatments: This application method involves treating the perimeter of a room or area to prevent bed bugs from entering. By creating a chemical barrier, it helps to stop bed bugs from spreading or re-infesting treated spaces.
- Heat Treatment: Although not an insecticide spray, heat treatment is a method often used in conjunction with sprays. Exposing infested areas to high temperatures can kill bed bugs in all life stages, making it an effective complementary strategy when combined with chemical applications.
Which Industrial Bed Bug Sprays Are Highly Recommended?
The best industrial bed bug sprays are designed for effective pest control in larger settings, ensuring long-lasting results.
- Bed Bug Patrol: This spray is known for its natural ingredients, making it safe for indoor use while still being effective against bed bugs.
- EcoSMART Bed Bug Killer: This eco-friendly option utilizes plant-based ingredients to eliminate bed bugs and offers a non-toxic solution suitable for households with pets and children.
- Hot Shot Bed Bug and Flea Killer: This spray is popular for its fast-acting formula that kills bed bugs on contact and continues to provide residual protection.
- Ortho Bed Bug Killer: Featuring a convenient ready-to-use spray bottle, this product is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, killing bed bugs and their eggs on contact.
- Temprid FX: A professional-grade insecticide, Temprid FX combines two active ingredients for a quick knockdown effect and a long-lasting residual effect against bed bugs.
Bed Bug Patrol: This spray stands out due to its formulation of natural ingredients, which allows it to be used safely in homes without harmful chemicals. It effectively targets bed bugs at all life stages and offers a pleasant scent, making it a favored option for many users concerned with safety.
EcoSMART Bed Bug Killer: EcoSMART’s spray is crafted from plant oils, providing a non-toxic solution that’s particularly appealing to families and pet owners. It effectively eliminates bed bugs while being safe for use around children and pets, aligning with a growing demand for eco-friendly pest control solutions.
Hot Shot Bed Bug and Flea Killer: This product is renowned for its rapid action, killing bed bugs quickly upon contact. Its formula not only addresses current infestations but also leaves behind a protective barrier to help prevent future outbreaks.
Ortho Bed Bug Killer: Known for its versatility, Ortho’s spray can be applied in various environments, making it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces. It targets bed bugs effectively upon contact and is particularly useful in treating bedding, carpets, and furniture.
Temprid FX: A favorite among pest control professionals, Temprid FX offers a dual-action approach to eliminating bed bugs. Its unique blend of active ingredients ensures immediate knockdown of pests while providing extended residual protection, making it ideal for severe infestations.
What Features Should Each Recommended Product Have?
The best industrial bed bug sprays should include the following features:
- Fast-acting formula: A quick-acting formula is essential as it allows for immediate results, killing bed bugs on contact. This is particularly important in industrial settings where infestations can spread rapidly and require swift action to minimize disruption.
- Residual effectiveness: The spray should have a long-lasting residual effect, meaning it continues to kill bed bugs even after the initial application. This feature ensures that newly hatching bugs or those that return to treated areas are also eliminated, providing ongoing protection.
- Non-toxic ingredients: It’s crucial to select a spray made with non-toxic ingredients, especially in environments where people frequently work or reside. A non-toxic formulation minimizes health risks to humans and pets while still being effective against bed bugs.
- Ease of application: The product should offer an easy application method, such as a spray bottle or aerosol can, allowing users to target infested areas without hassle. This feature is particularly beneficial in large spaces, ensuring thorough coverage without excessive effort.
- Multi-surface compatibility: The best sprays should be safe for use on various surfaces, including fabric, wood, and upholstery. This versatility helps address infestations in multiple locations, from mattresses to carpets, making the product more effective in diverse environments.
- Insect growth regulator (IGR) inclusion: An IGR can disrupt the life cycle of bed bugs, preventing them from maturing or reproducing. By including this feature, the spray not only kills adult bed bugs but also curtails future infestations, providing a more comprehensive solution.
- Positive user reviews and efficacy studies: It’s important to choose products that have demonstrated effectiveness through user reviews and independent efficacy studies. This ensures that the spray has a proven track record in real-world applications, giving users confidence in its ability to eliminate bed bugs.
What Safety Measures Should You Follow When Using Industrial Bed Bug Spray?
When using industrial bed bug spray, it’s essential to follow specific safety measures to protect yourself and others.
- Read the Label: Always read the manufacturer’s label and instructions carefully before application. The label provides crucial information about safety precautions, application methods, and any specific hazards associated with the product.
- Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wearing appropriate PPE, such as gloves, masks, and goggles, is vital to prevent skin contact and inhalation of harmful chemicals. This gear helps minimize exposure to pesticides, ensuring your safety during the application process.
- Ventilate the Area: Ensure the area being treated is well-ventilated to disperse any potentially harmful fumes. Open windows and doors or use fans to circulate air, which can help mitigate the risk of respiratory issues for anyone present.
- Keep People and Pets Away: Before applying the spray, ensure that all individuals and pets are removed from the area being treated. This is important to avoid accidental exposure to the pesticide, which can lead to adverse health effects.
- Follow Re-entry Guidelines: After treatment, adhere to the re-entry guidelines specified on the product label. This will inform you how long to wait before returning to the treated space, ensuring that any harmful residues have dissipated and the area is safe.
- Store Properly: Store the industrial bed bug spray in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. Proper storage prevents accidental spills or misuse and helps maintain the effectiveness of the product.
What Best Practices Should Be Followed for Effective Application of Bed Bug Spray?
Effective application of bed bug spray is crucial for ensuring thorough pest control and minimizing health risks.
- Read the Label: Always start by carefully reading the label of the bed bug spray for specific instructions regarding application methods, safety precautions, and recommended areas of use.
- Prepare the Area: Before applying the spray, remove any clutter and vacuum the area to eliminate bed bugs and eggs, which enhances the efficacy of the treatment.
- Use Protective Gear: Wear gloves, masks, and goggles while applying the spray to protect yourself from inhaling chemicals or having them come into contact with your skin.
- Target Infested Areas: Focus on key areas where bed bugs are likely to hide, such as seams of mattresses, cracks in walls, and furniture joints, to ensure the spray reaches the pests directly.
- Follow Reapplication Guidelines: Adhere to the recommended reapplication schedule provided on the label, as multiple treatments may be necessary to fully eradicate the infestation.
- Ventilate the Space: After applying the spray, ensure proper ventilation in the area to dissipate any lingering chemical odors and to facilitate the drying process.
- Monitor for Effectiveness: After treatment, regularly check for any signs of bed bugs to assess the effectiveness of the spray and determine if further action is needed.
By following these best practices, you can maximize the effectiveness of industrial bed bug sprays and contribute to a more thorough pest control strategy.
What Are the Alternatives to Industrial Bed Bug Spray and When Should They Be Used?
There are several effective alternatives to industrial bed bug sprays that can be utilized depending on the severity of the infestation and the environment.
- Heat Treatment: This method involves raising the temperature of an infested area to a level that is lethal to bed bugs, typically around 120°F (49°C) for at least 90 minutes. Heat treatment is effective because it can penetrate into walls and furniture, killing bugs at all life stages, and it leaves no chemical residue behind.
- Diatomaceous Earth: A natural, non-toxic powder made from fossilized algae, diatomaceous earth can be sprinkled in areas where bed bugs are likely to travel. When bed bugs come into contact with it, the powder dehydrates them, effectively killing them over time; however, it requires a bit of patience as it does not provide immediate results.
- Steam Cleaning: Using a steam cleaner to treat infested areas can kill bed bugs on contact, as the high temperature of the steam is lethal to them. This method is particularly useful for treating fabrics, mattresses, and carpets, as it can penetrate into seams and crevices where bed bugs hide.
- Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil, have insecticidal properties that can repel and kill bed bugs. Though these oils are generally safer and offer a pleasant scent, they may not be as effective as traditional insecticides, so they are best used in conjunction with other methods.
- Vacuuming: Regular vacuuming can help to physically remove bed bugs and their eggs from surfaces. It is important to dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the vacuum canister immediately after use to prevent any surviving bugs from re-entering the environment.
- Encasements: Bed bug-proof mattress and box spring encasements can trap any existing bugs inside and prevent new ones from entering. These encasements should be left on for at least a year to ensure all bugs inside are dead, as they cannot feed on you through the encasement.