Dry steam kills any bed bug or egg it touches. It leaves the nozzle very hot and carries little water, so our technician can push it into mattress seams and cushion welts without soaking the fabric.
Where Steam Works Best
- Mattress seams, buttons and edges.
- Sofas, futons, padded headboards and desk chairs.
- Car seats and child safety seats.
- Pet beds, curtains and items too big for a dryer.
Why We Use Commercial Steamers
Household steamers cool down before the steam hits the fabric, or they leave it wet. Our commercial machines hold their heat, we move slowly along each seam, and we always pair steam with a second method because it has no effect once it cools.
- FindWe locate where the bugs are hiding.
- SteamSeams, joints and folds get slow, overlapping passes.
- EncaseMattresses and box springs often go into sealed covers.
- Follow upA second method goes in, and we come back to catch anything the steam did not touch.
Steam in Berkeley Homes
Steam fits students who brought home a futon or desk chair during move-out week, parents who want nothing applied near a crib, and anyone who bought an upholstered piece at the Ashby BART flea market or a garage sale. It also helps BART and I-80 commuters who want car seats treated after finding a bug in the car.
Getting Ready
- Strip all beds and run linens through a hot wash and hot dryer.
- Clear the floor around beds and seating.
- Show your technician any delicate, antique or leather pieces.
Steam Treatment Questions
Is steam enough by itself for my apartment?
Rarely. Steam only kills what the nozzle reaches, so we combine it with a second method for bed frames, walls and nearby rooms.
I have a vintage armchair from a flea market. Can it be steamed?
Many fabrics handle dry steam well. Point out antiques, silk, velvet and leather before we start so we can test a hidden spot or pick another approach.
What happens when you reach out: Bed Bug Control CA is a licensed California bed bug service. We schedule a licensed technician to check your Berkeley home. Treatment starts only after you approve the written quote.