Where heat has an advantage
Heat treatment is compelling because it is not a contact-only spray. When applied correctly, it raises temperatures through the treatment space and can kill bed bugs across life stages, including eggs.
Cornell IPM notes that heat is a treatment bed bugs are not known to resist. That matters because pesticide resistance, especially to pyrethroids, is one of the most important weaknesses in chemical-only treatment plans.
Where chemical-only plans can disappoint
EPA and CDC guidance both warn that repeated spraying, off-label use, overapplication, and total-release foggers can create exposure risks while still failing to solve the infestation. That does not mean chemicals never help. It means homeowners deserve a clearer explanation of tradeoffs before they choose a path.