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The number of treatments required to eliminate bed bugs varies depending on the severity of the infestation. Most cases require two to four treatments within a three- to six-week span. However, a small infestation might only need one inspection and one treatment visit. In contrast, severe cases or large homes may require an ongoing plan with quarterly, monthly, or semi-monthly visits from an exterminator for up to a year. To get rid of bed bugs as quickly as possible, it's best to investigate and treat them at the first sign of an issue.

Heat is the most effective instant killer of bed bugs. Exposing them to temperatures above 131 degrees Fahrenheit for over an hour can eliminate them. Methods like steam cleaners and using a dryer on high heat are effective for this. Other options that can kill bed bugs on contact include EPA-approved pesticides, bleach, disinfectant sprays with alcohol, diatomaceous earth, and hydrogen peroxide. While freezing can work, it is not an instant solution, as it can take several days at 0 degrees Fahrenheit to be effective. Keep in mind that many DIY treatments won't reach bed bugs hidden in cracks or behind walls. For severe infestations or the most effective results, it is best to hire a professional exterminator for a professional heat or chemical treatment.

Some snake repellents are risky to use around people and pets because they use the active ingredient in mothballs, naphthalene. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified naphthalene as a carcinogen that can cause damage to the liver, neurological issues, and cataracts. 

The Colorado State University Extension suggests there’s not enough conclusive evidence of the effectiveness of snake repellents to recommend their use.

The most widely touted method for removing fruit flies is the combination of apple cider vinegar and dish soap. Since the soap causes the flies to sink, you can leave this trap open for maximum potency and easy fly access.