Not all vacuums are designed to deal with bed bugs. A good pest vacuum will capture bed bugs at all life stages while also helping clean up dead bugs, shells, and eggs.
Professionals use special vacuums with extra filtration and suction to do the job. These days, there are many affordable options that do a great job.
Why Get a Pest Vacuum
- Vacuuming removes dead bugs, molts, and hatched eggs before they pile up.
- Vacuuming cleans out nooks and crannies, making it easier to insert steam, powders, and sprays where it matters most.
- Pest-rated vacuums capture bacteria and viruses instead of sucking them up and throwing them in the air.
- Vacuums clear out powders before reapplication or steaming.
The wrong vacuum won’t do anything but annoy bed bugs and drive them deeper into your furniture and home.
Important Vacuum Features
Key Specifications
- Powerful suction
- Aggressive filtration
- Suitable attachments
A higher CFM means more power – we recommend vacuums with at least 60 CFM of suction for dealing with bed bugs.
The more CFM the merrier!
Bed bug eggs (the smallest stage in a bed bug’s life cycle) are about 1 millimeter, or 1000 microns, long.
The lowest level of HEPA filtration captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 micron or larger.
When it comes to capturing tiny bed bugs, HEPA filters are a great place to start. They will definitely catch them at all life stages.
A 0.3-micron filter will capture bacteria and viruses found in bed bug feces and stains.
A less aggressive filter would suck up bacteria and viruses before blowing them right back out into the air.
Although bed bugs do not transmit disease, it is nice to know that you don’t have to inhale their waste.
A narrow crevice tool and an extension tube are the perfect attachments to get into those tight spaces.
Best Bed Bug Vacuums Reviewed
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lil Red | ERGO | Express | Omega | Vento | |
| Power | 71 CFM | 106 CFM | 79 CFM | 99 CFM | 66 CFM |
| Filter | 2-Quart Bag, 3 Stages | 6-Quart Bag | 1-Pint Cartridge | 1-Gallon Cartridge | 4-Quart Bag |
| Weight | 6.5 Pounds | 10.3 Pounds | 4 Pounds | 12 Pounds | 26 Pounds |
| Rating | 90 / 100 | 100 / 100 | 73 / 100 | 96 / 100 | 76 / 100 |
| Relative Cost | $ | $$ | $$$ | $$$ | $$$$ |
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Atrix Lil Red HEPA Vacuum Review
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| Price | |
| Rating | 90 |
- Power: 71 CFM
- Filtration: 2-quart HEPA filter bag, reusable foam premotor filter, reusable exhaust filter
- Weight: 6.5 pounds
This is the most affordable option of all the vacuums we’ll be reviewing. That doesn’t mean it isn’t great at what it does!
Who Should Buy it?
If you’re on a budget, this is the vacuum for you.
The Lil’ Red is a great choice for anyone treating a small amount of space. Think one or two rooms in an office, apartment, condo, or dorm.
It is also perfect for vacuuming vehicles.
A vacuum with more power and containment plugs will be worth the money if treating more space.
If you want a vacuum that is effective but cheap enough to get rid of after an infestation, the Lil’ Red fits the bill.
- Large dial for easy power adjustment
- Affordable replacement HEPA filter bags
- 16.5 feet of retractable power cord
- 6-foot hose, 22 – 36-inch extending wand
- 5 attachments, including a crevice tool
- Handle for convenient mobility
- Compact size for easy storage
- Lightweight at 6.5 pounds
- 1 year limited warranty
Filters:
Having a HEPA filter bag makes this vacuum much better than regular vacuums at dealing with bed bugs.
As with all pest vacuums, the Lil’ Red’s filter bag must be thrown away after each treatment session.
The 2 stages of filtration should be thoroughly cleaned and inspected after each use. Especially because hose and filter plugs are not included.
Cleaning and inspection are important. Skip either step and you’ll be giving bed bugs a chance at surviving and escaping your vacuum.
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Filters for the Lil’ Red can be found online. They are inexpensive compared to the cartridge filters in more advanced vacuums.
ERGO Backpack HEPA Vacuum Review
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| Rating | 100 |
- Power: 106 CFM
- Filtration: 6-quart HEPA filter bag
- Weight: 10.3 pounds
Weighing 10.3 pounds, this vacuum is a workhorse that will suck up anything you point it at.
Its backpack design makes it easy to maneuver and comfortable over prolonged use. The backpack includes a utility belt to help hold onto all the accessories you’ll need for the job.
Who Should Buy it?
The ERGO backpack is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a serious bed bug vacuum.
It is our top recommendation because it is affordable and designed with bed bugs in mind.
The attachments, carry design, capacity, power, and filter were all chosen to make capturing bed bugs easier.
The ERGO also works as a blower and includes a set of attachments for that purpose.
It is a powerhouse of a vacuum that you’ll enjoy using at home for years – long after the infestation is over.
Highlights:
- Designed specifically for bed bugs and pests
- Hose and filter plugs included
- Affordable replacement HEPA filter bags
- Backpack design for comfort and convenience
- Generous 8-Quart filter capacity
- 6-foot hose, 22 – 37-inch extension wand
- 5 attachments including a crevice tool
- 1 year limited warranty
Filters:
We recommend the ERGO to anyone who wants a great vacuum that doesn’t break the bank.
Most vacuums meant for pest control use expensive cartridges over bags.
By using filter bags instead of cartridges, the ERGO saves you money. You will be going through a few filters over the course of an infestation. They add up.
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Atrix Express Plus HEPA Vacuum Review
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| Rating | 73 |
- Power: 79 CFM
- Filtration: 1-pint immediate containment HEPA filter cartridge
- Weight: 4 pounds
The Atrix Express manages to be much lighter than the budget Lil’ Red. It also ships with more suction and several advanced features. A clear hose, hose plugs, filter plugs, and a HEPA filter cartridge make it a premium vacuum.
A clear hose makes inspecting for sneaky straggler bugs a breeze.
Who Should Buy it?
Weighing only 4 pounds, the Atrix Express Plus is for those who value portability and comfort.
It’s meant for anyone dealing with early to middle-stage infestations.
Those who want a featherweight option that packs a punch will love with the Express.
As far as vacuums go, the Express is relatively inexpensive. The price of replacement cartridges can add up though.
Highlights:
- Designed specifically for pests
- Hose and filter plugs included
- Immediate containment HEPA filter cartridge
- Generous 25-foot power cord
- Clear 5.6-foot hose, 18 – 36-inch extension wand
- Carrying case for unit and accessories
- 5 attachments including 1 crevice tool
- Extremely light at 4 pounds
- 18 month limited warranty
Filter:
Worried that bugs might escape from the vacuum bag as you’re changing or tossing it?
The Atrix Express is a low-cost vacuum that uses immediate containment HEPA filter cartridges.
Cartridges capture bugs, molts, bacteria, viruses, and eggs and keep them in with plugs. They don’t come with the danger of ripping or tearing, unlike filter bags.
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When vacuuming bed bug waste, sanitary and secure are valuable features. Cartridges are worth it to professionals and those who deal with bed bugs often.
Relative Price: $$$
Rating: 4.8 / 5.0
- Power: 99 CFM
- Filtration: 1-gallon immediate containment HEPA filter cartridge
- Weight: 12 pounds
This is a commercial grade pest vacuum through and through.
It boasts 25% more suction power over the Express. The Omega doesn’t skimp on the accessories or 3-year warranty.
An optional backpack attachment is available for those who could use the comfort. It’s a worthwhile buy if you’ll be using the vacuum for any big jobs.
Who Should Buy it?
The Atrix Omega is a professional grade vacuum.
It will deal with any stage of infestation. Individuals, pest management professionals, and property managers will never feel outgunned.
It is also useful for dealing with other pests. Handle cockroaches, ants, and bees, rodent droppings, hazardous chemicals, and more with ease.
Highlights:
- Designed specifically for pest control professionals
- Hose and filter plugs included
- Immediate containment HEPA filter cartridge
- Generous 1-Gallon filter capacity
- Generous 25-foot power cord
- Clear 5.6-foot hose, 18 – 36-inch extension wand
- Self-contained vacuum and accessories
- 5 attachments including small and long crevice tools
- 3 year limited warranty
Filter:
The Omega uses an immediate containment filter cartridge.
The 1-gallon cartridge is a self-contained plastic box. It that traps bed bugs at all stages, as well as their feces, regurgitated blood, and anything else you point it at.
Filter and hose plugs are included for safe transportation between treatment sites.
Only professionals should transport or reuse used filters. Even with plugs installed, use extreme caution. Bed bugs escaping and infesting your car would cause a lot of trouble.
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Cartridges are expensive because they are convenient, secure, sanitary, and easy to change.
They are easily worth the money for those who are regularly exposed to infestations.
Vapamore MR-500 Vento HEPA Vacuum
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| Rating | 76 |
Relative Price: $$$$
Rating: 3.8 / 5.0
- Power: 66 CFM
- Filtration: 4-quart HEPA filter bag
- Weight: 26 pounds
In the world of cleaning, Vapamore is a household name.
Historically associated with steamers, Vapamore has put their expertise into creating this vacuum. The Vento ships with advanced attachments that are useful for more than pest control.
The Vento is a tank, weighing in at roughly 26 pounds.
Who Should Buy it?
Highlights:
- Affordable replacement HEPA filter bags
- Generous 26-foot retractable power cord
- 5-foot hose, 12.5-inch crevice attachment
- Built-in accessory storage
- 6 attachments including crevice tools and powered heads
- Limited lifetime warranty
Filter:
The Vento uses affordable HEPA filter bags with a reasonable 4-quart capacity.
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Where To Use Your Vacuum
Areas to Focus Vacuuming
- Mattresses
- Furniture
- Upholstered items
- Clothing
- Cracks and crevices
- Drapes and blinds
- Baseboards
- Floorboards
- Edges of carpet
- Rugs
- Hard floors
- Cars
There are no hard and fast rules. Vacuum wherever you’ve seen signs and anywhere you think could use some cleaning.
Tips On Using Your Vacuum
When Should I Use My Vacuum?
Vacuuming first removes easy-to-reach bugs and dust from spots you’ll be treating. Clearing dust and debris out of cracks and crevices makes a big difference.
Pesticide products will penetrate deeper and reach bed bugs right where they live.
Do not vacuum after using a steamer. You should never vacuum wet particles with these vacuums. Wet particles will damage any vacuum that isn’t designed for wet use.
One of our favorite uses of vacuums is sanitizing your bed before installing encasements.
Steps to Take Before Installing Encasements
- Vacuum
- Steam, heat-treat, or apply sprays if desired
- Allow your bed to fully dry
- Install encasements
While it isn’t necessary to clean your bed before installing encasements, most people prefer knowing that they’re not sleeping on top of a live bed bug colony.
When Should I Replace Filters?
Replace filter bag after each use.
Replace filters when full or every 2 to 3 years once you’re done using the vacuum for bed bugs.
HEPA Bags Vs. Cartridges
HEPA bags and cartridges provide the same level of filtration. They each have positives and negatives.
HEPA bags are cheaper than cartridges and do not produce as much waste. There is no built-in way to seal bags for later disposal. They can be taped shut or sealed in tied bags though.
Change and remove filter bags carefully. Ripping and tearing is possible as they are delicate. Be careful to avoid exposure to contaminants like bed bug feces and regurgitated blood captured in the bag.
HEPA cartridges are also called immediate containment filters. They are secure plastic bug prisons. Unlike bags, cartridges include plugs to make sure bugs can’t get out between uses. Cartridges are perfect for professional use. Switching them out is fast and foolproof unlike with bags.
If your heart is set on a filter cartridge vacuum, consider the Atrix Express. It won’t break the bank and has a filter big enough to get the job done.
References
https://debedbug.com/references/
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