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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.

If you’re heading outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants to minimize skin exposure. You may also want to wear clothing and any additional gear, like backpacks or tents, treated with 0.5% permethrin. If you’re dealing with fleas at home, you may want to wear insect repellant and vacuum your bed, carpets, and upholstery frequently to minimize fleas.

Some of the smells we love are, thankfully, pretty putrid for mosquitoes. A few essential oils that might have them swarming in the other direction include:

• Lavender

• Citronella

• Eucalyptus

• Cinnamon

• Thyme

Be careful how and where you apply essential oils around pets and children, and top them off regularly so they stay effective.

If you’re dealing with a bee colony on your property, you might wonder if they’ll leave naturally over time. The answer depends on their circumstances. Bees often relocate if the hive becomes overcrowded, food is scarce, or they face a threat. With that said, if a hive’s location is safe, warm, and with plentiful food sources, they are unlikely to relocate on their own, and the hive may persist for many generations.