Ozone generators produce ozone, a highly reactive gas, which is sometimes marketed as a solution for bed bug infestations. The advertised mechanism of action is that the ozone penetrates various materials, including mattresses and furniture, to neutralize bed bugs at all life stages, including eggs.
Complete eradication of bed bugs requires a multi-pronged approach. Given the resilience of bed bugs and their ability to hide in crevices, the effectiveness of single treatments is often limited. While ozone treatment may offer some level of control, its efficacy can be significantly affected by factors like ozone concentration, exposure time, and the specific environment being treated. Understanding these limitations is vital to managing expectations and preventing the resurgence of bed bugs. Historically, ozone has been employed for various sterilization purposes, but its application for pest control remains a subject of ongoing investigation.