8 Best Bed Bug Steamers To End Your Infestation For Good

Finding bed bugs in your home can be seriously stressful. These tiny pests are experts at hiding in mattresses, furniture, and carpets during the day, then coming out at night to feed on you and your family. The good news? Steam cleaning is one of the most effective ways to kill bed bugs without using harsh chemicals.

Heat is bed bugs’ biggest weakness. When exposed to temperatures above 120°F, bed bugs and their eggs die almost instantly. Steam cleaners produce temperatures well above this threshold, making them perfect weapons in the fight against these stubborn pests.

Steam treatment works because it’s chemical-free, safe around kids and pets, and can reach into tiny cracks and crevices where bed bugs love to hide. Plus, you can use the same steamer for regular house cleaning once you’ve dealt with the bug problem.

This guide covers everything you need to know about choosing the best bed bug steamer for your situation, from budget-friendly handheld units to professional-grade machines that pest control companies use.

The Best Bed Bug Steamers

After researching dozens of models and reading hundreds of user reviews, these eight steamers stand out as the most effective options for bed bug treatment:

1. Vapamore MR-100 Primo Steam Cleaner – Best Overall

The Vapamore MR-100 Primo is widely considered the best bed bug steamer for serious infestations. This professional-grade machine produces 220°F steam with adjustable pressure up to 51 PSI, giving it the power to penetrate deep into any fabric or crevice.

Key Features:

• 220°F steam temperature
• 51 PSI adjustable pressure control
• 1.6-liter tank provides 60 minutes of continuous steam
• 6-foot hose with retractable cord
• 20+ attachments included
• Stainless steel boiler construction
• Lifetime warranty on boiler and heating elements

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: The high pressure and temperature combination makes this steamer incredibly effective at reaching bed bugs hiding deep in mattresses and furniture. The adjustable pressure lets you dial down the force to avoid blowing bugs around while maintaining killing temperature.

Pros:

• Lifetime warranty provides excellent value
• Professional-grade quality and performance
• Excellent customer service and support
• Comprehensive attachment kit
• Made in the USA

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Takes 11 minutes to heat up
• Heavier than handheld models

Best For: Serious bed bug infestations, people who want a long-term investment, whole-home treatments

2. McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam Cleaner – Best Value

The McCulloch MC1375 provides excellent performance at a more affordable price point. This canister-style steamer delivers over 200°F steam with 58 PSI pressure and includes an impressive array of accessories.

Key Features:

• 200°F+ steam temperature
• 58 PSI steam pressure with variable control
• 48-ounce tank provides 90 minutes of steam
• 18-foot power cord plus 10-foot steam hose
• 20 versatile accessories included
• Wheeled canister design for easy transport

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: The long runtime and excellent reach make this steamer perfect for treating entire bedrooms without interruption. The variable pressure control helps prevent scattering bugs while maintaining effective killing temperatures.

Pros:

• Longest runtime on our list (90 minutes)
• Excellent reach with long cord and hose
• Great value for the price
• Comprehensive accessory kit
• Easy to maneuver with wheels

Cons:

• Some users report trigger mechanism issues over time
• Takes 12 minutes to heat up
• Bulkier than compact models

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers who want professional-level results, large infestations requiring extended treatment time

3. Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner – Most Compact Professional Option

The Dupray Neat proves that good things come in small packages. This cube-shaped steamer produces the highest temperature on our list at 275°F while maintaining a compact, easy-to-store design.

Key Features:

• 275°F superheated steam (highest temperature available)
• 54-ounce tank provides 50 minutes of cleaning
• Compact cube design with retractable handle
• 17 accessories included
• Laboratory-proven to kill 99.9% of bed bugs
• 2-year warranty with lifetime boiler warranty

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: The extreme temperature makes this one of the most lethal bed bug steamers available. Laboratory testing confirms its effectiveness against bed bugs at all life stages, from eggs to adults.

Pros:

• Highest temperature output available
• Compact design saves storage space
• Steam trigger can lock for continuous operation
• Excellent build quality
• Fast 90-second startup time

Cons:

• May spit water when first powered on
• Shorter runtime than larger units
• Hose can be tricky to store

Best For: Urban dwellers with limited storage space, people who want maximum killing temperature, apartment living

4. Wagner Spraytech 915e On-Demand Steam Cleaner – Best Budget Option

The Wagner 915e proves you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to get effective bed bug control. This affordable steamer reaches the critical 212°F temperature needed to kill bed bugs while including plenty of useful attachments.

Key Features:

• 212°F steam temperature
• 40-ounce tank provides 40 minutes of steam
• 18 accessories and attachments included
• 8-foot steam hose
• Heats up in under 9 minutes
• Also functions as wallpaper remover

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: While not as powerful as premium models, the 915e reaches adequate temperatures for bed bug elimination. The variety of attachments helps you adapt to different surfaces and situations.

Pros:

• Very affordable price point
• Good selection of accessories
• Dual-purpose design for wallpaper removal
• Reasonable heat-up time
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Lower pressure than premium models
• Shorter runtime requires more refills
• Less durable construction

Best For: Budget-conscious buyers, small infestations, people who need occasional use rather than heavy-duty treatment

5. BISSELL Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner – Best Handheld

For spot treatments and small infestations, the BISSELL Steam Shot provides excellent value. This handheld unit heats up incredibly fast and reaches temperatures sufficient for bed bug elimination.

Key Features:

• 1000 watts of steam power
• 215°F+ steam temperature
• Heats up in just 60 seconds (fastest on our list)
• 12-ounce tank provides 15 minutes of steam
• 11 specialized attachments included
• Kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: The rapid heat-up time and adequate temperature make this perfect for quick spot treatments. It’s also ideal for treating items you can’t fit in the dryer, like shoes or delicate fabrics.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable
• Fastest heat-up time available
• Very portable and lightweight
• Good temperature for the price
• Easy to store

Cons:

• Small tank requires frequent refills
• Limited to spot treatments
• Short runtime
• Less powerful than canister models

Best For: Spot treatments, travel use, very small infestations, people on tight budgets

6. Steamfast SF-370WH Multi-Purpose Steam Cleaner – Best Mid-Range

The Steamfast SF-370WH sits perfectly between budget and premium options. It provides reliable performance with adequate power for most bed bug situations without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• 200°F+ steam temperature
• 44 PSI steam pressure
• Large tank capacity for extended use
• Multiple attachments for versatile cleaning
• Affordable heavy-duty construction
• Good warranty coverage

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: This steamer provides the right balance of temperature, pressure, and capacity for effective bed bug treatment. It’s powerful enough for moderate infestations while remaining affordable.

Pros:

• Reliable and consistent performance
• Good value for the price
• Adequate power for most situations
• Decent selection of attachments
• Sturdy construction

Cons:

• Not as powerful as premium models
• Basic accessory selection
• Average heat-up time
• Less specialized for bed bug treatment

Best For: Moderate infestations, users who want more power than handheld units but don’t need premium features

7. Polti Cimex Eradicator – Best Professional Commercial Grade

The Polti Cimex Eradicator represents the gold standard in bed bug steamers. This professional-grade machine was specifically engineered for bed bug elimination and is used by pest control professionals worldwide.

Key Features:

• 365°F superheated dry steam
• Patented technology designed specifically for bed bugs
• Professional-grade construction and durability
• Used by professional pest control companies
• Instant kill through thermal shock
• Minimal moisture output prevents mold issues

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: This machine was built from the ground up for bed bug elimination. The extreme temperature and patented dry steam technology ensure complete elimination of bugs and eggs on contact.

Pros:

• Highest professional-grade performance available
• Specifically designed for bed bug treatment
• Used by professional exterminators
• Proven effectiveness in commercial settings
• Superior build quality

Cons:

• Very expensive for home use
• Primarily designed for professional applications
• May be overkill for small infestations
• Requires training for optimal use

Best For: Severe infestations, professional pest control operators, people who want the absolute best performance regardless of cost

8. DBTech Multi-Purpose Handheld Steam Cleaner – Best Lightweight Handheld

The DBTech handheld steamer provides a nice middle ground between the basic BISSELL model and more expensive options. It reaches good temperatures while remaining lightweight and affordable.

Key Features:

• 210°F steam temperature
• 1,050-watt heating system
• 6-ounce water tank
• 3-minute heat-up time
• 20 minutes of runtime
• 9-foot power cord
• Multiple attachments included

Why It Works for Bed Bugs: The 210°F temperature is adequate for bed bug elimination, while the quick heat-up time makes it convenient for multiple treatment sessions throughout the day.

Pros:

• Lightweight at only 3.2 pounds
• Quick 3-minute heat-up
• Adequate temperature for bed bugs
• Reasonable price point
• Good cord length for handheld unit

Cons:

• Small tank requires frequent refills
• Shorter runtime than canister models
• Less powerful than larger units
• Limited to smaller treatment areas

Best For: Small spaces, people with mobility issues, targeted treatments, supplementing larger steamers

What Makes a Good Bed Bug Steamer?

Not all steam cleaners work well for bed bug control. Here’s what to look for when shopping for the best bed bug steamer:

Temperature is Everything

Your steamer needs to reach at least 200°F at the tip to guarantee bed bug elimination. Many regular household steamers don’t get hot enough. Bed bugs die when surface temperatures hit 160-180°F, but since steam cools as it travels through the air, you want a machine that starts much hotter.

Steam Pressure Matters

Look for steamers with at least 40-60 PSI (pounds per square inch). Higher pressure helps steam penetrate deep into mattresses, upholstery, and carpet fibers where bed bugs hide. Low-pressure steamers might only kill bugs on the surface, leaving deeper populations alive.

Tank Size and Runtime

Treating bed bugs takes time and patience. You’ll need to steam slowly and thoroughly, covering every inch of your mattress, box spring, bed frame, and nearby furniture. A larger water tank means longer continuous operation without stopping to refill.

Quality Attachments

The right nozzles and brushes make all the difference. Wide attachments work better than narrow jets because they won’t blow bed bugs to other areas. Look for steamers that include various attachment sizes for different surfaces.

Easy Maneuverability

A long hose (6+ feet) and power cord help you reach all areas without constantly moving the main unit. This is especially important when steaming around beds and large furniture pieces.

How to Use a Steam Cleaner for Bed Bugs

Getting good results with bed bug steamers requires proper technique. Here’s how to use these machines effectively:

Before You Start

Vacuum thoroughly first to remove visible bugs and debris. This prevents you from blowing bugs around with the steam. Remove all bedding and wash it in hot water (at least 120°F) and dry on high heat for 30 minutes.

Clear clutter from around the bed and furniture. Bed bugs hide in everything from books to picture frames, so the more you can remove, the better your treatment will work.

Test your steamer’s temperature with a thermometer. The surface should reach 160-180°F after the steam passes over it. If it doesn’t, you may need a more powerful machine.

Treatment Process

Start with the mattress, moving the steamer slowly across every inch of the surface. Pay special attention to seams, tags, and the head of the bed where bugs concentrate. Move about 1 inch per second to ensure adequate heat exposure.

Next, treat the box spring thoroughly. This is actually where most bed bugs live, not in the mattress itself. Use a narrow attachment to get into the corners and along the edges where the fabric meets the wood frame.

Steam the bed frame, focusing on joints, screw holes, and any cracks or crevices. Wooden bed frames are especially prone to harboring bugs in small gaps.

Don’t forget nearby furniture like nightstands, dressers, and chairs. Bed bugs can spread several feet from their primary harborage areas.

Safety Tips

Steam can cause serious burns, so wear long sleeves and closed-toe shoes. Keep the steamer moving to avoid damaging surfaces with excessive heat.

Never steam electrical outlets, switches, or electronic devices. Water and electricity don’t mix, and steam contains moisture that can cause dangerous shorts.

Test fabrics and surfaces in an inconspicuous area first. Some materials may shrink, fade, or become damaged by high heat.

Allow all treated surfaces to dry completely before replacing bedding or furniture. This usually takes 2-4 hours depending on humidity and air circulation.

Expert Tips for Maximum Effectiveness

Getting the most out of your steamer requires using the right techniques and attachments. These professional tips will help you achieve better results and avoid common mistakes.

Use the Right Attachments

Wide attachments work much better than narrow jets for bed bug treatment. Narrow streams can actually blow bugs away from the area you’re treating, spreading the infestation rather than eliminating it.

A towel placed over the steamer head can help prevent scattering while still allowing heat to penetrate. This technique is especially useful when treating visible bugs.

Go Slow and Be Thorough

Moving too quickly is the biggest mistake people make with bed bug steamers. Each area needs sustained heat exposure to kill bugs hiding deep in materials.

Spend at least 30 seconds steaming each area, longer for thick materials like mattresses. Remember, you’re trying to heat the interior of these items, not just the surface.

Combine Methods for Best Results

Steam treatment works best as part of a comprehensive approach. Use mattress encasements after steaming to trap any remaining bugs and prevent new infestations.

Monitor with bed bug traps to catch any survivors or new bugs that might enter from other areas. Steam treatment should be repeated every few days for the first few weeks.

Don’t Expect Instant Results

Bed bug elimination takes time and persistence. Even the best bed bug steamer won’t solve a serious infestation with just one treatment. Plan on multiple sessions over several weeks.

Some bugs may survive if they’re hiding in areas the steam can’t reach effectively. This is normal and doesn’t mean your steamer isn’t working.

Steam Treatment vs Other Methods

Cost Comparison

Professional bed bug extermination typically costs $1,000 to $3,000 or more for a whole-home treatment. Multiple treatments are often necessary, driving costs even higher.

Purchasing your own steamer is a one-time investment ranging from $40 to $800 depending on the model. Even expensive steamers pay for themselves quickly compared to professional services.

Chemical treatments from pest control companies usually cost $300-800 per treatment, and most infestations require multiple applications.

Effectiveness

Steam provides immediate results. Bugs die on contact when exposed to proper temperatures, so you can see the effects right away.

Chemical pesticides take time to work and may not affect eggs, requiring multiple treatments as new bugs hatch. Some bed bug populations have also developed resistance to common pesticides.

Professional heat treatment is highly effective but requires specialized equipment and costs thousands of dollars. It’s essentially the same principle as steam treatment but applied to entire rooms.

Safety

Steam treatment is completely chemical-free, making it safe around children, pets, and people with chemical sensitivities. The only safety concern is avoiding burns from the hot steam.

Chemical treatments often require you to leave your home for several hours and may have long-term health implications with repeated exposure.

Heat treatment is also chemical-free but requires professional application due to the extreme temperatures involved (140°F+ throughout entire rooms).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Moving Too Fast

The most common error is rushing through the steaming process. Bed bugs can survive brief exposure to heat, so you need sustained contact to ensure elimination.

Take your time and overlap your steaming patterns. It’s better to steam a smaller area thoroughly than to rush through a large space.

Using Wrong Attachments

Narrow jet attachments might seem more powerful, but they can scatter bed bugs to new locations. Stick with wider attachments that provide even heat distribution.

Ignoring Hidden Areas

Bed bugs are experts at hiding in tiny spaces. Don’t forget to steam picture frames, electrical outlet covers (remove them first), curtain hems, and carpet edges.

Pay special attention to areas where different materials meet, like where carpet meets baseboards or where bed frames touch walls.

Not Following Up

One steam treatment rarely eliminates an entire infestation. Plan on multiple sessions spaced a few days apart to catch newly hatched bugs.

Monitor treated areas with flashlight inspections and bed bug traps to identify any remaining activity.

Maintenance and Care

Keeping Your Steamer Running Well

Regular maintenance extends the life of your steamer and ensures consistent performance. Most bed bug steamers require periodic descaling to remove mineral buildup from hard water.

Use white vinegar or commercial descaling solutions according to your manufacturer’s instructions. This is typically needed every 10-20 uses depending on your water quality.

Cleaning After Use

Empty and rinse the water tank after each use to prevent mineral deposits and bacteria growth. Wipe down the exterior and attachments with a damp cloth.

Store attachments in the provided case or container to prevent loss and damage. Keep the unit in a dry location to prevent mold or mildew in the internal components.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Low steam pressure usually indicates mineral buildup in the heating element or lines. Descaling typically resolves this issue.

If the steamer isn’t reaching proper temperatures, check for clogs in the steam lines or attachments. Sometimes debris can block steam flow.

Unusual noises often indicate water level issues or internal problems. Consult your user manual or contact customer service for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Steam Cleaners Really Kill Bed Bugs?

Yes, when used properly. Scientific studies confirm that bed bugs die when exposed to temperatures above 120°F, and all the steamers on our list exceed this threshold significantly.

The key is ensuring the steam actually reaches the bugs. Surface temperatures need to hit 160-180°F for guaranteed elimination, which requires sustained contact with adequate steam pressure.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Plan on 2-4 hours for a typical bedroom, depending on the severity of the infestation and size of the room. You’ll need to steam the mattress, box spring, bed frame, nearby furniture, carpets, and any other potential hiding spots.

Larger infestations or whole-home treatments can take 6-8 hours or more. It’s better to work methodically than to rush and miss areas.

Can Steam Damage My Mattress?

Most mattresses handle steam treatment well, but you should check your warranty first. Memory foam can be particularly sensitive to heat and moisture.

Always test a small, hidden area first to check for shrinkage, color changes, or other damage. Allow complete drying before replacing bedding.

Will One Treatment Eliminate All Bed Bugs?

Probably not. Bed bugs hide in many different locations, and it’s nearly impossible to reach every single bug with one treatment. Plan on multiple sessions over 2-3 weeks.

Newly hatched bugs from eggs you missed will also require follow-up treatments. This is normal and doesn’t mean your steamer isn’t working.

What Water Should I Use?

Distilled water works best for most steamers because it reduces mineral buildup. However, regular tap water is fine if your local water isn’t extremely hard.

Avoid using any additives, cleaning solutions, or fragrances in your steamer unless specifically recommended by the manufacturer.