Pest Control Questions & Answers
Straightforward answers about clothes moths, bed bugs, carpet beetles, professional heat treatment, DIY heater hire and insecticide treatments.
What Do You Need Help With?
About MothKill
Our treatments, service area and warranty.
What insects can MothKill treat?
MothKill specialises in the treatment of clothes moths, carpet beetles and bed bugs. Depending on the property and pest involved, we can also advise on treatment for fleas and other crawling or textile pests.
Are you professionally trained?
Yes. We use professional pest-control equipment and products and regularly update our knowledge and treatment methods.
Pest-control products and treatment methods have specific legal, safety and label requirements which must always be followed.
Do you offer a guarantee or warranty?
Yes. Qualifying complete-property heat treatments include a 6-month warranty, subject to our treatment terms, preparation requirements and the property being suitable for treatment.
Where insecticide treatment is provided, the applicable follow-up or warranty period depends on the treatment plan agreed before work begins.
Why does the whole property need treating for a heat-treatment warranty?
If only one room is treated, bed bugs, moths or other insects may already be present elsewhere and later move back into the treated area.
Treating the complete affected property significantly reduces the risk of untreated harbourages remaining and allows us to provide a more meaningful warranty.
What areas do you cover?
MothKill is based in East Anglia and provides specialist pest treatments across a wide area of England, including Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, London and many surrounding areas.
For larger heat treatments, we can travel considerably further. Contact us with your postcode and we will confirm availability.
Is MothKill insured?
Yes. MothKill carries appropriate business insurance for the professional pest-control work we undertake.
How quickly can you attend?
Availability varies depending on location and workload, but we always try to offer appointments as quickly as possible.
If the infestation is urgent, let us know when you enquire and we will advise you of the earliest available appointment.
Professional Heat Treatment FAQs
How pest heat treatment works, preparation and safety.
How Heat Treatment Works
Does pest heat treatment work?
Yes. Professional heat treatment can be extremely effective against insects such as bed bugs, clothes moths and carpet beetles when sufficiently high temperatures are achieved throughout the treatment area.
The important factor is not simply how hot the air becomes. Heat must reach the insects, eggs, larvae and harbourages where they are hiding.
What pests can be treated with heat?
Professional heat treatment can be used against several insect pests, including:
- Bed bugs
- Clothes moths
- Carpet beetles
- Fleas
- Some other crawling and stored-product insects
The treatment method varies according to the pest and property.
How does heat treatment kill insects?
Insects have a limited ability to survive sustained high temperatures. When their body temperature reaches a lethal level for sufficient time, essential biological processes begin to fail.
Professional heat treatment therefore relies on achieving and maintaining suitable conditions throughout areas where insects may be hiding.
Does heat treatment kill insect eggs?
Yes. One major advantage of professional heat treatment is that sufficiently high temperatures can kill insects at several life stages, including eggs.
This is particularly useful for bed bugs and textile pests because eggs can sometimes be harder to control with surface-applied treatments.
Heat Has to Reach the Pest
Successful heat treatment is about much more than the room air temperature. Heat, airflow and exposure time all matter, particularly where insects are hidden inside furniture, carpets, cracks or other protected areas.
Cost & Treatment Time
Why is professional heat treatment more expensive?
Professional heat treatment requires specialist heaters, ducting, industrial fans, temperature sensors, fuel and substantial time on site.
Equipment must be transported, unloaded, installed, monitored and removed again. The objective is controlled heat distribution rather than simply placing a heater in a room.
How much does heat treatment cost?
Price depends on the pest, property size, number of rooms, location, access and treatment complexity.
Contact MothKill with your postcode, property type and rooms affected and we can provide an appropriate quotation.
How long does heat treatment take?
Most treatments take several hours. Exact treatment time depends on the size and contents of the property and how quickly the required temperatures are achieved throughout the treatment area.
Temperature readings are more important than simply treating for a fixed number of hours.
Heat-Sensitive Belongings
Will heat treatment damage my belongings?
Most normal household items tolerate professional heat treatment well. However, some belongings are heat-sensitive and should be removed or protected.
This can include certain plastics, aerosols, medicines, wax products, cosmetics, delicate artwork, some electronics, vinyl records and laminated furniture.
Can heat treatment damage wallpaper?
It can. Elevated temperatures may soften some wallpaper adhesives, particularly where wallpaper is old, already lifting or poorly applied.
This can occasionally cause bubbling, curling or lifting at the edges.
Can heat treatment damage paintwork?
Good-quality paintwork normally tolerates treatment. However, old, loose or poorly applied paint can occasionally bubble, crack or peel when exposed to prolonged heat.
Are UPVC windows and doors safe during heat treatment?
UPVC and associated components can be sensitive to excessive heat. Their response depends on material, age, existing condition and proximity to hot airflow.
We monitor temperatures and take precautions around vulnerable windows, doors and fittings.
Can heat treatment damage laminated furniture?
It can. Some laminated and MDF furniture depends on heat-sensitive adhesives. Prolonged high temperatures can occasionally cause laminate or edging to lift or separate.
Vulnerable furniture may need to be removed or protected before treatment.
Can heat treatment affect plastic items?
Yes. Some plastics can soften, distort or warp at elevated temperatures.
Plastic blinds, curtain rails, lightweight mouldings and similar heat-sensitive items should normally be removed where practical.
Safety & Preparation
Can heat treatment cause a fire?
Our indirect diesel heater remains outside the property. Combustion gases are exhausted outside while clean heated air is ducted into the treatment area.
There is no naked flame inside the property. However, heat treatment involves high temperatures, so preparation instructions must be followed and potentially hazardous or heat-sensitive items removed.
Are there diesel fumes inside the property?
No. Our indirect diesel heaters remain outside. Combustion gases are exhausted outdoors while clean heated air is ducted inside through suitable openings.
Can I stay in the property during heat treatment?
People and pets should leave the heated treatment area while treatment takes place.
Temperatures become uncomfortable and surfaces, ducting and equipment can become very hot. Where insecticides are also being applied, additional exclusion requirements may apply.
Is heat treatment a major upheaval?
There is some preparation involved, but the treatment itself is relatively non-invasive.
The biggest factor is preparing rooms correctly so heated air can circulate and reach potential pest harbourages.
Is my property suitable for heat treatment?
Most houses can be assessed for heat treatment, but suitable access is essential. We normally need parking and a safe external position for the heater.
Flats and upper-floor properties need individual assessment because our heating equipment remains outside.
What items should be removed before heat treatment?
Items that may need removing or protecting include:
Other examples include cosmetics, perfumes, vinyl records, photographic film, some electronics, plastic blinds, curtain rails, musical instruments, some laminated furniture and food or drink that could be damaged by heat.
We provide a preparation guide before treatment. If you are unsure about an item, ask us first.
How should I prepare rooms for heat treatment?
Rooms should be decluttered and accessible so heated air can move around beds, furniture, carpets, skirting boards and other potential harbourages.
Beds should be stripped, cupboards and wardrobes made accessible and heat-sensitive items removed or protected according to our preparation instructions.
Treatment Results
Can heat treatment fail?
Yes. No responsible pest treatment should be described as incapable of failure.
Problems can occur when rooms are poorly prepared, belongings are packed too tightly, clutter creates insulated areas, temperatures are not distributed correctly or pests are present in untreated parts of the property.
Correct preparation and careful temperature monitoring greatly improve treatment success.
What happens if pests are still present after heat treatment?
If you believe pest activity remains after treatment, contact us so we can assess what you are seeing.
Qualifying complete-property heat treatments are backed by our 6-month warranty, subject to the agreed terms and preparation requirements.
DIY Heat Treatment FAQs
Professional heater hire with equipment and guidance.
Why choose DIY heat treatment?
The main advantage is cost. Hiring professional heat-treatment equipment allows you to carry out much of the treatment yourself while avoiding the full labour cost of a technician carrying out the entire treatment.
Why hire heat-treatment equipment from MothKill?
MothKill specialises in insect heat treatment. We provide far more than simply a heater.
Packages can include powerful indirect heaters, industrial fans, temperature-monitoring equipment, ducting, fuel, setup assistance and one-to-one instruction.
What if I have never used the equipment before?
You do not need to be an experienced pest controller. We explain how the equipment works and help with the initial setup.
You must, however, be comfortable following the preparation, temperature-monitoring and safety instructions provided.
What is included in DIY heat-treatment hire?
Depending on the package, we provide equipment needed for treatment, including heaters, fans, ducting and temperature-monitoring equipment.
We also provide one-to-one instruction, setup assistance and guidance on monitoring the treatment.
What temperature does the room reach?
Room air temperatures commonly reach approximately 50–60°C or more in selected areas.
However, the temperature of furniture, mattresses and other harbourages is more important than the temperature of the air beside the heater.
How long does DIY heat treatment take?
As a general guide, we normally allow around six hours. Smaller rooms may reach the required temperatures sooner, while larger or heavily furnished areas may take longer.
Temperature readings rather than time alone should be used to judge treatment progress.
Do I need to prepare the room?
Yes. Preparation is essential. Reduce clutter, make furniture accessible and remove or protect heat-sensitive items.
Incorrect preparation can prevent heat reaching insects hidden inside belongings or furniture.
Do all my clothes and bedding need to be washed?
Not necessarily. Items that can safely tolerate heat may sometimes remain within the treatment when correctly arranged.
Where appropriate, tumble drying suitable clothing and bedding at a high temperature can also help kill bed bugs. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.
Are there fumes with DIY heat treatment?
The diesel heaters remain outside the property. Combustion gases are exhausted outside while clean heated air is ducted into the treatment area.
Is DIY heat treatment safe?
Heat treatment involves high temperatures and powerful equipment, so all instructions must be followed carefully.
People and pets should not remain in the treatment area, and heat-sensitive or hazardous belongings must be removed beforehand.
Can you treat flats with hired heaters?
Ground-floor flats with suitable external access may be suitable. Other flats need individual assessment because heaters remain outside and heated air must be safely ducted into the property.
Is there a deposit for equipment hire?
Yes. A refundable £250 equipment deposit per diesel heater is required, subject to the equipment being returned in the agreed condition.
When is payment due for equipment hire?
The hire charge and equipment deposit must be paid in full before the hire begins.
Do you deliver and collect the equipment?
Yes. Delivery and collection are included within the applicable service area and agreed hire package.
What identification do I need?
We require identification linked to the delivery address. This may include a driving licence or passport together with suitable proof of address such as a utility bill.
Insecticide Treatment FAQs
Professional products, application and treatment safety.
Are professional insecticides harmful?
Professional insecticides must be used carefully and strictly according to the approved product label.
During application, people and pets normally need to leave the treatment area for the period specified by the product instructions and technician.
Once treated surfaces have dried and any required re-entry period has passed, follow the aftercare instructions provided.
Do professional insecticides stain carpets or furniture?
Many modern professional pest-control products are designed for suitable household surfaces, but no product should automatically be assumed to be stain-free on every material.
Delicate, valuable or unusual fabrics and surfaces should be discussed before treatment. Spot testing may be appropriate where necessary.
What insecticides does MothKill use?
We use professional pest-control products selected according to the pest, property and treatment requirements.
Different active ingredients and formulations may be used. We do not rely on one product for every pest or situation.
Are professional insecticides simply stronger than DIY products?
Not necessarily. Professional and DIY products can differ in formulation, active ingredients, permitted uses, application methods and label instructions.
Successful treatment depends on correct pest identification, product selection and application rather than simply choosing the product with the highest concentration.
How are insecticides applied?
The method depends on the pest and product. Treatment may include targeted residual sprays, dusts or other professional application methods.
We select an appropriate method for the infestation rather than automatically fogging the entire property.
Are insecticides environmentally friendly?
Insecticides are designed to kill or control living organisms, so they should always be used responsibly.
We follow product labels and use treatments only where appropriate, taking care to minimise unnecessary exposure to people, pets and non-target organisms.
I have a baby or young children. Can treatment still be carried out?
Possibly, but we need to understand the property and proposed treatment first.
Children, babies and pets should not be present during application and must follow the specified re-entry period. Toys, bedding and personal items may need removing or protecting.
Where appropriate, heat treatment can provide an alternative that reduces reliance on insecticides.
I have asthma, allergies or breathing problems. Is insecticide treatment suitable?
If you have asthma, allergies, a respiratory condition or another medical concern, tell us before treatment.
We can explain the proposed treatment method and product. Advice about your individual health, however, should come from your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional.
Clothes Moth FAQs
Damage, larvae, treatment and protecting textiles.
Do clothes moths cause damage?
Yes. Clothes moth infestations can cause serious damage to natural-fibre carpets, clothing, rugs, upholstery and other textiles.
Damage can become expensive when an infestation is left untreated, particularly where wool carpets, valuable clothing or furnishings are involved.
Do adult clothes moths eat clothes and carpets?
No. The larvae are responsible for the damage.
After hatching, clothes moth larvae feed on suitable natural fibres such as wool, fur, feathers and other materials containing animal-based proteins.
What happens if I ignore a clothes moth infestation?
The infestation can continue to develop as adults reproduce and larvae continue feeding.
Because larvae often remain hidden in dark, undisturbed locations, considerable damage can occur before the extent of the infestation becomes obvious.
Will carpet cleaning get rid of clothes moths?
Carpet cleaning can help by removing dirt, debris and some insects or larvae. However, it should not normally be relied upon as the sole treatment for an established infestation.
Larvae and eggs may remain under furniture, around carpet edges, beneath skirting boards and in other inaccessible areas.
Are clothes moths active all year?
Yes. Clothes moths can remain active indoors throughout the year because heated properties provide suitable conditions.
You may notice fewer adult moths during colder periods, but larvae can continue feeding within carpets and textiles.
What preparation is needed before clothes moth treatment?
Preparation depends on whether you are having heat treatment, insecticide treatment or a combination approach.
Generally, rooms should be decluttered and thoroughly vacuumed, with particular attention to carpet edges, underneath furniture and other undisturbed areas.
Clothing and textiles may need inspecting, isolating or treating according to the preparation instructions provided.
How should I treat clothes affected by clothes moths?
The appropriate method depends on the fabric.
Suitable items may be washed or tumble dried according to their care labels. Delicate items may require dry cleaning. Freezing can also be useful for some small textiles when carried out at sufficiently low temperatures for long enough.
Keep treated and untreated belongings separate to reduce the chance of insects being reintroduced.
How long does clothes moth treatment take?
Heat treatment can take several hours or most of a day, depending on the size of the property.
Insecticide treatments usually take less time on site but may require follow-up visits because moth eggs, larvae and hidden activity can persist.
Is heat treatment effective against clothes moths?
Yes. Professional heat treatment can kill clothes moths at different stages of their life cycle when sufficient temperatures reach the insects and affected materials.
It is particularly useful where larvae and eggs are hidden within carpets, furniture and other difficult-to-access areas.
Bed Bug FAQs
Bed bug behaviour, treatment, travel and reinfestation.
Why are bed bugs so difficult to kill?
Bed bugs are exceptionally good at hiding. Their flat bodies allow them to shelter in mattress seams, bed frames, furniture joints, skirting boards and tiny cracks and crevices.
They can also survive for long periods without feeding, and some populations have developed resistance to commonly used insecticides.
Are bed bugs a health risk?
Bed bugs are not generally considered established vectors of human disease. However, bites can cause itching and irritation, and infestations can result in disturbed sleep and considerable distress.
Individual reactions vary, and some people show little or no visible reaction to bites.
Does having bed bugs mean my home is dirty?
No. Bed bugs are not attracted to dirt.
They can infest clean and untidy properties alike because they are seeking a blood meal. Reducing clutter does, however, make them easier to detect and gives them fewer places to hide.
How should bed bugs be treated?
The most appropriate treatment depends on the property and severity of the infestation.
Professional heat treatment can be extremely effective because it can target adults, nymphs and eggs without relying solely on insecticides.
Some infestations may benefit from an integrated approach using heat, monitoring, dusts or carefully selected professional products.
Does heat treatment kill bed bug eggs?
Yes. When sufficiently high temperatures reach the eggs and remain around them for long enough, heat can kill bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle, including eggs.
What can I do to help control bed bugs?
Reduce clutter and vacuum regularly, particularly around beds, furniture and skirting boards.
Avoid storing belongings underneath the bed where possible, and do not move potentially infested items into unaffected rooms.
Bed bug interceptors underneath bed legs can also be useful for monitoring activity.
Do DIY bed bug products work?
DIY measures can sometimes help with small or newly discovered infestations, but established bed bug problems can be extremely difficult to eliminate.
The biggest challenge is reaching every hiding place and every stage of the insect's life cycle. Repeated use of unsuitable sprays or foggers can sometimes make treatment more difficult.
Can I bring bed bugs home from a hotel?
Yes. Bed bugs can hide in luggage, clothing and belongings and may be picked up in hotels or other accommodation.
Avoid storing suitcases on or underneath beds. Use a luggage stand where possible and inspect luggage when returning home.
Can second-hand furniture bring bed bugs into my home?
Yes. Used beds, sofas, chairs and other upholstered furniture can potentially contain live bed bugs or eggs.
Be particularly cautious with second-hand mattresses and upholstered furniture of unknown history.
How do bed bugs spread?
Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers. They can travel in luggage, clothing, furniture and other belongings.
Once introduced into a building, they can spread between rooms and, in some circumstances, between adjoining flats or properties.
Can bed bugs hide beneath floorboards?
Yes. Bed bugs can hide in gaps around bare floorboards, skirting boards, pipework and structural openings.
Enclosed voids can heat differently from the main room, which is one reason professional heat treatment requires careful temperature monitoring.
What if a bed bug survives heat treatment?
If you see a live bed bug following treatment, do not automatically assume it is harmless.
Contact us so the situation can be assessed. Depending on the treatment plan, follow-up monitoring, silica-based dust, targeted professional insecticide or bed bug interceptors may be recommended.
What are “zombie bed bugs”?
“Zombie bed bug” is an informal internet term rather than a recognised scientific pest-control term.
It is sometimes used to describe a bed bug that appears slow or disorientated after treatment. A bed bug that is still moving should not automatically be assumed to be incapable of biting or reproducing.
What preparation is required before bed bug treatment?
Preparation is extremely important. Rooms should be decluttered, beds stripped and furniture made accessible.
Clothing, bags and other belongings should be handled according to the preparation instructions so that bed bugs are not accidentally moved elsewhere.
Items removed from an infested room should normally be sealed or treated appropriately rather than carried loose through the property.
Should I wash all my clothes if I have bed bugs?
Not necessarily.
Suitable clothing and bedding can often be treated using a tumble dryer at an appropriate high temperature, following the manufacturer's care instructions. Washing alone should not automatically be relied upon to kill bed bugs.
Keep treated and untreated items clearly separated.
Will I need more than one bed bug heat treatment?
In many cases, a correctly performed whole-property heat treatment can achieve a very high level of control in a single visit.
However, no treatment can responsibly be guaranteed to eliminate every infestation in one visit. Property layout, preparation, inaccessible harbourages and reintroduction can all affect the outcome.
Can bed bugs return after treatment?
Yes. Even after successful treatment, bed bugs can be brought back into the property through luggage, visitors, furniture and other belongings.
In flats and multi-occupancy buildings, movement from another infested area can occasionally occur as well.
Do you provide a bed bug heat-treatment warranty?
Yes. Qualifying complete-property bed bug heat treatments include a 6-month warranty, subject to our terms, preparation requirements and treatment conditions.
Warranty
Complete-Property Heat Treatment Warranty
Qualifying complete-property heat treatments include MothKill's 6-month warranty, subject to our treatment terms, preparation requirements and treatment conditions.
Still Have a Question?
If you are unsure which pest you have or which treatment is most suitable, contact MothKill with your postcode, property type and details of what you have seen. Photographs can also help us identify insects or signs of an infestation.
Pest Control Questions & Answers
Straightforward answers about clothes moths, bed bugs, carpet beetles, professional heat treatment, DIY heater hire and insecticide treatments.
What Do You Need Help With?
About MothKill
Our treatments, service area and warranty.
What insects can MothKill treat?
MothKill specialises in the treatment of clothes moths, carpet beetles and bed bugs. Depending on the property and pest involved, we can also advise on treatment for fleas and other crawling or textile pests.
Are you professionally trained?
Yes. We use professional pest-control equipment and products and regularly update our knowledge and treatment methods.
Pest-control products and treatment methods have specific legal, safety and label requirements which must always be followed.
Do you offer a guarantee or warranty?
Yes. Qualifying complete-property heat treatments include a 6-month warranty, subject to our treatment terms, preparation requirements and the property being suitable for treatment.
Where insecticide treatment is provided, the applicable follow-up or warranty period depends on the treatment plan agreed before work begins.
Why does the whole property need treating for a heat-treatment warranty?
If only one room is treated, bed bugs, moths or other insects may already be present elsewhere and later move back into the treated area.
Treating the complete affected property significantly reduces the risk of untreated harbourages remaining and allows us to provide a more meaningful warranty.
What areas do you cover?
MothKill is based in East Anglia and provides specialist pest treatments across a wide area of England, including Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, London and many surrounding areas.
For larger heat treatments, we can travel considerably further. Contact us with your postcode and we will confirm availability.
Is MothKill insured?
Yes. MothKill carries appropriate business insurance for the professional pest-control work we undertake.
How quickly can you attend?
Availability varies depending on location and workload, but we always try to offer appointments as quickly as possible.
If the infestation is urgent, let us know when you enquire and we will advise you of the earliest available appointment.
Professional Heat Treatment FAQs
How pest heat treatment works, preparation and safety.
How Heat Treatment Works
Does pest heat treatment work?
Yes. Professional heat treatment can be extremely effective against insects such as bed bugs, clothes moths and carpet beetles when sufficiently high temperatures are achieved throughout the treatment area.
The important factor is not simply how hot the air becomes. Heat must reach the insects, eggs, larvae and harbourages where they are hiding.
What pests can be treated with heat?
Professional heat treatment can be used against several insect pests, including:
- Bed bugs
- Clothes moths
- Carpet beetles
- Fleas
- Some other crawling and stored-product insects
The treatment method varies according to the pest and property.
How does heat treatment kill insects?
Insects have a limited ability to survive sustained high temperatures. When their body temperature reaches a lethal level for sufficient time, essential biological processes begin to fail.
Professional heat treatment therefore relies on achieving and maintaining suitable conditions throughout areas where insects may be hiding.
Does heat treatment kill insect eggs?
Yes. One major advantage of professional heat treatment is that sufficiently high temperatures can kill insects at several life stages, including eggs.
This is particularly useful for bed bugs and textile pests because eggs can sometimes be harder to control with surface-applied treatments.
Heat Has to Reach the Pest
Successful heat treatment is about much more than the room air temperature. Heat, airflow and exposure time all matter, particularly where insects are hidden inside furniture, carpets, cracks or other protected areas.
Cost & Treatment Time
Why is professional heat treatment more expensive?
Professional heat treatment requires specialist heaters, ducting, industrial fans, temperature sensors, fuel and substantial time on site.
Equipment must be transported, unloaded, installed, monitored and removed again. The objective is controlled heat distribution rather than simply placing a heater in a room.
How much does heat treatment cost?
Price depends on the pest, property size, number of rooms, location, access and treatment complexity.
Contact MothKill with your postcode, property type and rooms affected and we can provide an appropriate quotation.
How long does heat treatment take?
Most treatments take several hours. Exact treatment time depends on the size and contents of the property and how quickly the required temperatures are achieved throughout the treatment area.
Temperature readings are more important than simply treating for a fixed number of hours.
Heat-Sensitive Belongings
Will heat treatment damage my belongings?
Most normal household items tolerate professional heat treatment well. However, some belongings are heat-sensitive and should be removed or protected.
This can include certain plastics, aerosols, medicines, wax products, cosmetics, delicate artwork, some electronics, vinyl records and laminated furniture.
Can heat treatment damage wallpaper?
It can. Elevated temperatures may soften some wallpaper adhesives, particularly where wallpaper is old, already lifting or poorly applied.
This can occasionally cause bubbling, curling or lifting at the edges.
Can heat treatment damage paintwork?
Good-quality paintwork normally tolerates treatment. However, old, loose or poorly applied paint can occasionally bubble, crack or peel when exposed to prolonged heat.
Are UPVC windows and doors safe during heat treatment?
UPVC and associated components can be sensitive to excessive heat. Their response depends on material, age, existing condition and proximity to hot airflow.
We monitor temperatures and take precautions around vulnerable windows, doors and fittings.
Can heat treatment damage laminated furniture?
It can. Some laminated and MDF furniture depends on heat-sensitive adhesives. Prolonged high temperatures can occasionally cause laminate or edging to lift or separate.
Vulnerable furniture may need to be removed or protected before treatment.
Can heat treatment affect plastic items?
Yes. Some plastics can soften, distort or warp at elevated temperatures.
Plastic blinds, curtain rails, lightweight mouldings and similar heat-sensitive items should normally be removed where practical.
Safety & Preparation
Can heat treatment cause a fire?
Our indirect diesel heater remains outside the property. Combustion gases are exhausted outside while clean heated air is ducted into the treatment area.
There is no naked flame inside the property. However, heat treatment involves high temperatures, so preparation instructions must be followed and potentially hazardous or heat-sensitive items removed.
Are there diesel fumes inside the property?
No. Our indirect diesel heaters remain outside. Combustion gases are exhausted outdoors while clean heated air is ducted inside through suitable openings.
Can I stay in the property during heat treatment?
People and pets should leave the heated treatment area while treatment takes place.
Temperatures become uncomfortable and surfaces, ducting and equipment can become very hot. Where insecticides are also being applied, additional exclusion requirements may apply.
Is heat treatment a major upheaval?
There is some preparation involved, but the treatment itself is relatively non-invasive.
The biggest factor is preparing rooms correctly so heated air can circulate and reach potential pest harbourages.
Is my property suitable for heat treatment?
Most houses can be assessed for heat treatment, but suitable access is essential. We normally need parking and a safe external position for the heater.
Flats and upper-floor properties need individual assessment because our heating equipment remains outside.
What items should be removed before heat treatment?
Items that may need removing or protecting include:
Other examples include cosmetics, perfumes, vinyl records, photographic film, some electronics, plastic blinds, curtain rails, musical instruments, some laminated furniture and food or drink that could be damaged by heat.
We provide a preparation guide before treatment. If you are unsure about an item, ask us first.
How should I prepare rooms for heat treatment?
Rooms should be decluttered and accessible so heated air can move around beds, furniture, carpets, skirting boards and other potential harbourages.
Beds should be stripped, cupboards and wardrobes made accessible and heat-sensitive items removed or protected according to our preparation instructions.
Treatment Results
Can heat treatment fail?
Yes. No responsible pest treatment should be described as incapable of failure.
Problems can occur when rooms are poorly prepared, belongings are packed too tightly, clutter creates insulated areas, temperatures are not distributed correctly or pests are present in untreated parts of the property.
Correct preparation and careful temperature monitoring greatly improve treatment success.
What happens if pests are still present after heat treatment?
If you believe pest activity remains after treatment, contact us so we can assess what you are seeing.
Qualifying complete-property heat treatments are backed by our 6-month warranty, subject to the agreed terms and preparation requirements.
DIY Heat Treatment FAQs
Professional heater hire with equipment and guidance.
Why choose DIY heat treatment?
The main advantage is cost. Hiring professional heat-treatment equipment allows you to carry out much of the treatment yourself while avoiding the full labour cost of a technician carrying out the entire treatment.
Why hire heat-treatment equipment from MothKill?
MothKill specialises in insect heat treatment. We provide far more than simply a heater.
Packages can include powerful indirect heaters, industrial fans, temperature-monitoring equipment, ducting, fuel, setup assistance and one-to-one instruction.
What if I have never used the equipment before?
You do not need to be an experienced pest controller. We explain how the equipment works and help with the initial setup.
You must, however, be comfortable following the preparation, temperature-monitoring and safety instructions provided.
What is included in DIY heat-treatment hire?
Depending on the package, we provide equipment needed for treatment, including heaters, fans, ducting and temperature-monitoring equipment.
We also provide one-to-one instruction, setup assistance and guidance on monitoring the treatment.
What temperature does the room reach?
Room air temperatures commonly reach approximately 50–60°C or more in selected areas.
However, the temperature of furniture, mattresses and other harbourages is more important than the temperature of the air beside the heater.
How long does DIY heat treatment take?
As a general guide, we normally allow around six hours. Smaller rooms may reach the required temperatures sooner, while larger or heavily furnished areas may take longer.
Temperature readings rather than time alone should be used to judge treatment progress.
Do I need to prepare the room?
Yes. Preparation is essential. Reduce clutter, make furniture accessible and remove or protect heat-sensitive items.
Incorrect preparation can prevent heat reaching insects hidden inside belongings or furniture.
Do all my clothes and bedding need to be washed?
Not necessarily. Items that can safely tolerate heat may sometimes remain within the treatment when correctly arranged.
Where appropriate, tumble drying suitable clothing and bedding at a high temperature can also help kill bed bugs. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.
Are there fumes with DIY heat treatment?
The diesel heaters remain outside the property. Combustion gases are exhausted outside while clean heated air is ducted into the treatment area.
Is DIY heat treatment safe?
Heat treatment involves high temperatures and powerful equipment, so all instructions must be followed carefully.
People and pets should not remain in the treatment area, and heat-sensitive or hazardous belongings must be removed beforehand.
Can you treat flats with hired heaters?
Ground-floor flats with suitable external access may be suitable. Other flats need individual assessment because heaters remain outside and heated air must be safely ducted into the property.
Is there a deposit for equipment hire?
Yes. A refundable £250 equipment deposit per diesel heater is required, subject to the equipment being returned in the agreed condition.
When is payment due for equipment hire?
The hire charge and equipment deposit must be paid in full before the hire begins.
Do you deliver and collect the equipment?
Yes. Delivery and collection are included within the applicable service area and agreed hire package.
What identification do I need?
We require identification linked to the delivery address. This may include a driving licence or passport together with suitable proof of address such as a utility bill.
Insecticide Treatment FAQs
Professional products, application and treatment safety.
Are professional insecticides harmful?
Professional insecticides must be used carefully and strictly according to the approved product label.
During application, people and pets normally need to leave the treatment area for the period specified by the product instructions and technician.
Once treated surfaces have dried and any required re-entry period has passed, follow the aftercare instructions provided.
Do professional insecticides stain carpets or furniture?
Many modern professional pest-control products are designed for suitable household surfaces, but no product should automatically be assumed to be stain-free on every material.
Delicate, valuable or unusual fabrics and surfaces should be discussed before treatment. Spot testing may be appropriate where necessary.
What insecticides does MothKill use?
We use professional pest-control products selected according to the pest, property and treatment requirements.
Different active ingredients and formulations may be used. We do not rely on one product for every pest or situation.
Are professional insecticides simply stronger than DIY products?
Not necessarily. Professional and DIY products can differ in formulation, active ingredients, permitted uses, application methods and label instructions.
Successful treatment depends on correct pest identification, product selection and application rather than simply choosing the product with the highest concentration.
How are insecticides applied?
The method depends on the pest and product. Treatment may include targeted residual sprays, dusts or other professional application methods.
We select an appropriate method for the infestation rather than automatically fogging the entire property.
Are insecticides environmentally friendly?
Insecticides are designed to kill or control living organisms, so they should always be used responsibly.
We follow product labels and use treatments only where appropriate, taking care to minimise unnecessary exposure to people, pets and non-target organisms.
I have a baby or young children. Can treatment still be carried out?
Possibly, but we need to understand the property and proposed treatment first.
Children, babies and pets should not be present during application and must follow the specified re-entry period. Toys, bedding and personal items may need removing or protecting.
Where appropriate, heat treatment can provide an alternative that reduces reliance on insecticides.
I have asthma, allergies or breathing problems. Is insecticide treatment suitable?
If you have asthma, allergies, a respiratory condition or another medical concern, tell us before treatment.
We can explain the proposed treatment method and product. Advice about your individual health, however, should come from your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional.
Clothes Moth FAQs
Damage, larvae, treatment and protecting textiles.
Do clothes moths cause damage?
Yes. Clothes moth infestations can cause serious damage to natural-fibre carpets, clothing, rugs, upholstery and other textiles.
Damage can become expensive when an infestation is left untreated, particularly where wool carpets, valuable clothing or furnishings are involved.
Do adult clothes moths eat clothes and carpets?
No. The larvae are responsible for the damage.
After hatching, clothes moth larvae feed on suitable natural fibres such as wool, fur, feathers and other materials containing animal-based proteins.
What happens if I ignore a clothes moth infestation?
The infestation can continue to develop as adults reproduce and larvae continue feeding.
Because larvae often remain hidden in dark, undisturbed locations, considerable damage can occur before the extent of the infestation becomes obvious.
Will carpet cleaning get rid of clothes moths?
Carpet cleaning can help by removing dirt, debris and some insects or larvae. However, it should not normally be relied upon as the sole treatment for an established infestation.
Larvae and eggs may remain under furniture, around carpet edges, beneath skirting boards and in other inaccessible areas.
Are clothes moths active all year?
Yes. Clothes moths can remain active indoors throughout the year because heated properties provide suitable conditions.
You may notice fewer adult moths during colder periods, but larvae can continue feeding within carpets and textiles.
What preparation is needed before clothes moth treatment?
Preparation depends on whether you are having heat treatment, insecticide treatment or a combination approach.
Generally, rooms should be decluttered and thoroughly vacuumed, with particular attention to carpet edges, underneath furniture and other undisturbed areas.
Clothing and textiles may need inspecting, isolating or treating according to the preparation instructions provided.
How should I treat clothes affected by clothes moths?
The appropriate method depends on the fabric.
Suitable items may be washed or tumble dried according to their care labels. Delicate items may require dry cleaning. Freezing can also be useful for some small textiles when carried out at sufficiently low temperatures for long enough.
Keep treated and untreated belongings separate to reduce the chance of insects being reintroduced.
How long does clothes moth treatment take?
Heat treatment can take several hours or most of a day, depending on the size of the property.
Insecticide treatments usually take less time on site but may require follow-up visits because moth eggs, larvae and hidden activity can persist.
Is heat treatment effective against clothes moths?
Yes. Professional heat treatment can kill clothes moths at different stages of their life cycle when sufficient temperatures reach the insects and affected materials.
It is particularly useful where larvae and eggs are hidden within carpets, furniture and other difficult-to-access areas.
Bed Bug FAQs
Bed bug behaviour, treatment, travel and reinfestation.
Why are bed bugs so difficult to kill?
Bed bugs are exceptionally good at hiding. Their flat bodies allow them to shelter in mattress seams, bed frames, furniture joints, skirting boards and tiny cracks and crevices.
They can also survive for long periods without feeding, and some populations have developed resistance to commonly used insecticides.
Are bed bugs a health risk?
Bed bugs are not generally considered established vectors of human disease. However, bites can cause itching and irritation, and infestations can result in disturbed sleep and considerable distress.
Individual reactions vary, and some people show little or no visible reaction to bites.
Does having bed bugs mean my home is dirty?
No. Bed bugs are not attracted to dirt.
They can infest clean and untidy properties alike because they are seeking a blood meal. Reducing clutter does, however, make them easier to detect and gives them fewer places to hide.
How should bed bugs be treated?
The most appropriate treatment depends on the property and severity of the infestation.
Professional heat treatment can be extremely effective because it can target adults, nymphs and eggs without relying solely on insecticides.
Some infestations may benefit from an integrated approach using heat, monitoring, dusts or carefully selected professional products.
Does heat treatment kill bed bug eggs?
Yes. When sufficiently high temperatures reach the eggs and remain around them for long enough, heat can kill bed bugs at all stages of their life cycle, including eggs.
What can I do to help control bed bugs?
Reduce clutter and vacuum regularly, particularly around beds, furniture and skirting boards.
Avoid storing belongings underneath the bed where possible, and do not move potentially infested items into unaffected rooms.
Bed bug interceptors underneath bed legs can also be useful for monitoring activity.
Do DIY bed bug products work?
DIY measures can sometimes help with small or newly discovered infestations, but established bed bug problems can be extremely difficult to eliminate.
The biggest challenge is reaching every hiding place and every stage of the insect's life cycle. Repeated use of unsuitable sprays or foggers can sometimes make treatment more difficult.
Can I bring bed bugs home from a hotel?
Yes. Bed bugs can hide in luggage, clothing and belongings and may be picked up in hotels or other accommodation.
Avoid storing suitcases on or underneath beds. Use a luggage stand where possible and inspect luggage when returning home.
Can second-hand furniture bring bed bugs into my home?
Yes. Used beds, sofas, chairs and other upholstered furniture can potentially contain live bed bugs or eggs.
Be particularly cautious with second-hand mattresses and upholstered furniture of unknown history.
How do bed bugs spread?
Bed bugs are excellent hitchhikers. They can travel in luggage, clothing, furniture and other belongings.
Once introduced into a building, they can spread between rooms and, in some circumstances, between adjoining flats or properties.
Can bed bugs hide beneath floorboards?
Yes. Bed bugs can hide in gaps around bare floorboards, skirting boards, pipework and structural openings.
Enclosed voids can heat differently from the main room, which is one reason professional heat treatment requires careful temperature monitoring.
What if a bed bug survives heat treatment?
If you see a live bed bug following treatment, do not automatically assume it is harmless.
Contact us so the situation can be assessed. Depending on the treatment plan, follow-up monitoring, silica-based dust, targeted professional insecticide or bed bug interceptors may be recommended.
What are “zombie bed bugs”?
“Zombie bed bug” is an informal internet term rather than a recognised scientific pest-control term.
It is sometimes used to describe a bed bug that appears slow or disorientated after treatment. A bed bug that is still moving should not automatically be assumed to be incapable of biting or reproducing.
What preparation is required before bed bug treatment?
Preparation is extremely important. Rooms should be decluttered, beds stripped and furniture made accessible.
Clothing, bags and other belongings should be handled according to the preparation instructions so that bed bugs are not accidentally moved elsewhere.
Items removed from an infested room should normally be sealed or treated appropriately rather than carried loose through the property.
Should I wash all my clothes if I have bed bugs?
Not necessarily.
Suitable clothing and bedding can often be treated using a tumble dryer at an appropriate high temperature, following the manufacturer's care instructions. Washing alone should not automatically be relied upon to kill bed bugs.
Keep treated and untreated items clearly separated.
Will I need more than one bed bug heat treatment?
In many cases, a correctly performed whole-property heat treatment can achieve a very high level of control in a single visit.
However, no treatment can responsibly be guaranteed to eliminate every infestation in one visit. Property layout, preparation, inaccessible harbourages and reintroduction can all affect the outcome.
Can bed bugs return after treatment?
Yes. Even after successful treatment, bed bugs can be brought back into the property through luggage, visitors, furniture and other belongings.
In flats and multi-occupancy buildings, movement from another infested area can occasionally occur as well.
Do you provide a bed bug heat-treatment warranty?
Yes. Qualifying complete-property bed bug heat treatments include a 6-month warranty, subject to our terms, preparation requirements and treatment conditions.
Warranty
Complete-Property Heat Treatment Warranty
Qualifying complete-property heat treatments include MothKill's 6-month warranty, subject to our treatment terms, preparation requirements and treatment conditions.
Still Have a Question?
If you are unsure which pest you have or which treatment is most suitable, contact MothKill with your postcode, property type and details of what you have seen. Photographs can also help us identify insects or signs of an infestation.
