How can I check if there are bedbugs in a mattress?

Understanding Bed Bugs

What are Bed Bugs?

Appearance and Size

Bedbugs are small, oval‑shaped insects that lie flat when not moving. Adult specimens exhibit a reddish‑brown hue that deepens after feeding, while unfed individuals appear lighter. Their bodies lack wings and antennae are short, making the silhouette distinct from other household pests. Visible signs include tiny dark spots resembling pepper grains, which are excrement, and pale, translucent skins left after molting.

Length: 4–5 mm (approximately the size of a grain of rice)
Width: 2–3 mm
Height: less than 2 mm when at rest

Nymphs progress through five developmental stages, each slightly larger than the previous, ranging from 1.5 mm in the first instar to the adult size. Recognizing these dimensions allows precise visual inspection of mattress seams, folds, and tufts, where bedbugs typically hide. Direct observation of the described coloration, shape, and size confirms the presence of the insects.

Life Cycle and Habits

Bedbugs develop through five stages: egg, first‑instar nymph, second‑instar nymph, third‑instar nymph, fourth‑instar nymph, fifth‑instar nymph, and adult. Each nymph must consume a blood meal before molting to the next stage. Under typical indoor conditions, the entire cycle lasts 4–6 weeks, but temperature influences speed; warmer environments accelerate development.

Adults are nocturnal feeders. They emerge from hiding places shortly after a host falls asleep, attach to exposed skin, and withdraw blood for 5–10 minutes. After feeding, they retreat to concealed sites to digest, molt, or lay eggs. Preferred refuges include seams, folds, and tufts of fabric where the mattress structure offers darkness and protection from disturbance.

Detecting an infestation relies on recognizing the habits linked to these stages:

Egg clusters: Small, whitish‑beige masses about 1 mm in diameter, often found in crevices of the mattress cover, box‑spring seams, or behind headboard panels.
Nymphal exuviae: Transparent skins shed after each molt; they accumulate near feeding sites and are visible under adequate lighting.
Fecal spots: Dark, rust‑colored specks left after the insect is crushed; they appear on mattress fabric, sheets, or nearby walls.
Live insects: Adult bedbugs are 4–5 mm long, flat, and reddish‑brown. They may be spotted on the mattress surface, especially near edges or pillow arrangements.
Odor: A sweet, musty scent resembling coriander emerges from large colonies, detectable when the mattress is disturbed.

Because bedbugs hide primarily in the mattress’s internal layers, inspection should include:

Removing bedding and examining the mattress surface and stitching with a bright flashlight.
Pulling back the mattress cover or opening zippered seams to view interior folds.
Using a magnifying lens to identify tiny nymphs and exuviae.
Running a thin, flexible probe (such as a credit‑card edge) along seams to dislodge concealed insects for visual confirmation.

Understanding the life cycle and nocturnal feeding pattern clarifies why signs concentrate around hidden seams and why detection requires thorough, systematic inspection of the mattress structure.

Why They Infest Mattresses

Bedbugs target mattresses because the sleeping surface offers constant access to a blood‑feeding host. The fabric and seams create concealed pockets where insects can remain hidden during daylight hours, reducing exposure to light and disturbance.

Several factors increase the likelihood of infestation:

Warmth generated by a sleeping body provides an optimal temperature for development.
Moisture from perspiration creates a humid microenvironment that supports survival.
Mattress edges and stitching contain tiny crevices that protect eggs and nymphs from detection.
Frequently moved or second‑hand mattresses can introduce bugs from previous locations.
Proximity to the host eliminates the need for long foraging trips, conserving energy.

These conditions make the mattress an ideal habitat, allowing bedbugs to establish colonies, reproduce, and spread to adjacent furniture and structures.

Preparing for Inspection

Gathering Necessary Tools

Flashlight

A flashlight provides the illumination needed to expose the tiny signs of infestation that remain hidden in a mattress. Bright, focused light reveals the dark crevices where bedbugs reside, allowing visual confirmation of their presence.

When using a flashlight for inspection, follow these steps:

Select a high‑lumens LED torch with a cool‑white beam to minimize color distortion.
Dim ambient lighting; darkness enhances contrast between the insect’s body and the mattress fabric.
Hold the beam at a shallow angle, pressing it into seams, folds, and tufts where bugs hide.
Scan the following areas systematically: edges of the mattress, piping, button holes, and the underside of the cover.
Look for live insects, reddish‑brown spots (fecal stains), small translucent shells, or tiny white eggs.

If any of these indicators appear, document the location and consider further treatment. A reliable flashlight, combined with a methodical visual survey, offers a rapid and accurate means of confirming whether a mattress harbors bedbugs.

Magnifying Glass

A magnifying glass is a practical tool for examining a mattress for signs of bed‑bug activity. Its enlarged view reveals details that the naked eye often misses, such as tiny insects, shed skins, and fecal spots.

When inspecting a mattress, follow these steps:

Choose a magnifier with at least 5× power; higher magnification improves visibility of minute features.
Remove bedding and gently pull back the mattress cover, exposing seams, tufts, and the inner surface.
Scan the edges, folds, and stitching for live insects, which appear as flat, reddish‑brown bodies about 4‑5 mm long.
Look for translucent exuviae (shed skins) and dark specks (fecal matter) that indicate recent feeding.
Use a flashlight in conjunction with the magnifier to illuminate hidden crevices and enhance contrast.

The magnifying glass also assists in differentiating bed‑bug remnants from other household debris, reducing false positives. By systematically applying the instrument, one can confirm or rule out an infestation with greater certainty than visual inspection alone.

Gloves and Tweezers

Gloves and tweezers are essential tools for a reliable inspection of a mattress for bedbug activity. Proper protective gear prevents the transfer of insects or eggs to other surfaces, while precise instruments allow the collection of specimens for identification.

Nitrile gloves provide a barrier against allergens and chemicals, resist puncture, and do not degrade when exposed to insect fluids. Use a fresh pair for each inspection session, discard after use, and wash hands thoroughly before and after handling the mattress.

Fine‑point stainless‑steel tweezers enable the removal of live insects, nymphs, or shed skins without crushing them. Choose tweezers with a narrow tip (1–2 mm) to grasp small specimens accurately. Hold the tweezers perpendicular to the mattress surface to minimize damage to surrounding fabric.

Inspection steps using gloves and tweezers

Don a clean pair of nitrile gloves.
Remove bedding and expose the mattress surface.
Examine seams, folds, and stitching with a flashlight.
Locate any suspected insects or dark spots.
Grasp each item with tweezers, lifting it away from the fabric.
Transfer the specimen into a sealed container for laboratory analysis or visual confirmation.
Repeat the process across the entire mattress, paying special attention to corners and edges.

After the inspection, place used gloves and tweezers in a disposable bag, seal, and discard according to local pest‑control regulations. Clean reusable tweezers with alcohol, allow them to dry, and store them in a sealed case. This protocol minimizes contamination risk and ensures that collected evidence remains intact for accurate identification.

Plastic Bags and Tape

Plastic bags and adhesive tape provide a low‑cost, non‑chemical method for confirming the presence of bedbugs in a mattress. The material’s transparency allows visual inspection, while the stickiness captures insects that move across the surface.

Place a clear polyethylene bag over a section of the mattress, securing the edges with tape to create an airtight enclosure.
Leave the bag in place for 24–48 hours; bedbugs seeking shelter will crawl under the bag and become trapped against the interior surface.
After the exposure period, examine the bag’s interior with a bright light. Look for live insects, shed skins, or dark spots indicating fecal matter.
If any evidence is found, remove the bag, seal it, and dispose of it immediately to prevent further spread.

For spot checks, cut a strip of strong, low‑lint tape (e.g., packing or duct tape) and press it firmly against the mattress seams, folds, and tufts. Lift the tape and inspect both sides under magnification. Bedbug bodies, eggs, or excrement will adhere to the adhesive surface, offering a quick visual confirmation.

Both techniques are simple to implement, require no specialized equipment, and can be repeated regularly to monitor infestation levels after treatment.

Clearing the Area

Removing Bedding and Linens

Removing all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors is the initial action when investigating a mattress for possible bedbug activity. Detach each layer carefully to expose the mattress surface and prevent insects from escaping onto other furnishings.

Strip the top sheet and any fitted sheet; place them in a sealed plastic bag.
Remove pillowcases and separate pillows; store each in its own bag.
Unfold blankets, comforters, and duvet covers; fold them inward and seal.
Detach mattress encasements or protectors; roll them up and seal.

After the bedding is isolated, examine each item for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to scan seams, folds, and corners. If any evidence appears, treat the affected pieces with hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) for washing, then dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be placed in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 72 hours or disposed of in sealed containers.

Finally, return the mattress to its bare state. Conduct a visual inspection of the mattress itself, focusing on tufts, seams, and the underside. The thorough removal and inspection of bedding and linens significantly increase the likelihood of detecting bedbug presence before any further measures are taken.

Moving Furniture

When relocating a bed, the act of moving the frame and mattress provides a practical opportunity to verify whether the sleeping surface harbors bed‑bugs.

First, remove the mattress from its box spring or platform. Place it on a clean, hard surface where it can be examined without strain. Conduct a visual scan:

Look for live insects about the size of apple seeds, especially along seams and edges.
Search for dark, rust‑colored spots that may be excrement.
Examine any shed skins, which appear as translucent, papery shells.
Use a bright flashlight to illuminate hidden crevices and the underside of the mattress.

If visual signs are inconclusive, apply a detection tool:

Place double‑sided adhesive tape on a piece of cardboard.
Position the tape on the mattress surface for several minutes.
Inspect the tape for captured insects or eggs.

After inspection, treat the mattress if evidence is found before it re‑enters the new location. Common methods include heat treatment (raising the temperature to 120 °F for at least 90 minutes) or professional pesticide application.

During the move, protect surrounding furniture to prevent cross‑contamination:

Encase the mattress in a zippered, bed‑bug‑rated cover.
Wrap sofas, chairs, and dressers in plastic sheeting, sealing seams with tape.
Transport items in a vehicle that can be cleaned or disinfected afterward.

By integrating a thorough examination into the moving process, you can confirm the absence of bed‑bugs and reduce the risk of spreading an infestation to the new residence.

Conducting the Mattress Inspection

Visual Inspection Techniques

Checking Seams and Tufting

Inspecting the seams and tufted areas of a mattress is essential for confirming the presence of bedbugs. These insects hide in the tight folds where fabric meets padding, making thorough visual examination crucial.

Begin by removing any bedding and exposing the mattress surface. Use a bright, magnified light source to enhance visibility. Run a gloved hand gently along each seam, pulling the fabric apart where possible. Look for the following indicators:

Live insects, typically reddish‑brown and oval‑shaped.
Dark, rust‑colored spots representing excrement.
Small, ivory‑white eggs attached to stitching.
Molted skins or translucent shells.

Next, focus on tufted sections where fabric is stitched to the underlying filler. Gently lift the stitching with a flat tool or fingertip to reveal hidden pockets. Bedbugs often congregate in these concealed cavities, so careful separation is required.

If any of the signs above appear, isolate the mattress by encasing it in a certified bedbug‑proof cover and initiate a professional treatment plan. Absence of visual evidence does not guarantee infestation is absent; consider complementary methods such as interceptor traps or professional inspections for a comprehensive assessment.

Examining Edges and Underside

Inspect the perimeter of the mattress and the area beneath it, because bedbugs often hide where the fabric meets the frame. Pull the mattress away from the headboard, footboard, or box spring and examine the stitching, seams, and any exposed foam. Use a bright flashlight or a headlamp to illuminate dark crevices; a magnifying lens can reveal tiny insects or their excrement.

Key indicators to watch for while checking edges and the underside:

Small, rust‑colored spots (fecal stains) on fabric or wood.
Tiny, translucent eggs attached to seams or folds.
Live or dead insects, typically 4–5 mm long, reddish‑brown, and flattened.
Shed exoskeletons near the mattress corners or under the frame.
Unusual, musty odor that intensifies when the area is disturbed.

If any of these signs appear, isolate the mattress, wash removable covers at high temperature, and consider professional pest‑control treatment.

Inspecting Mattress Tags and Labels

Inspecting the tags and labels on a mattress provides direct clues about potential bed‑bug activity. Manufacturers often include care instructions, warranty information, and details about any insecticide treatments applied during production. Look for statements such as “treated with bed‑bug resistant chemicals” or warnings about pesticide residue. Absence of such declarations does not guarantee safety; it merely indicates that the mattress was not pre‑treated.

The label may also list the date of manufacture. Bed‑bugs tend to infest older, worn‑out mattresses, so a recent production date reduces, but does not eliminate, risk. Verify the serial number against the retailer’s inventory system to confirm the item’s age and provenance.

When examining the tag, note any signs of tampering. Cut, peeled, or replaced tags suggest that the original information may have been altered, a common indicator of prior infestation attempts. An intact, factory‑sealed label is a positive sign, yet it should be cross‑checked with visual inspection of the mattress surface.

Key points for tag inspection:

Confirm presence of manufacturer’s name, model number, and production date.
Identify any treatment claims or pesticide warnings.
Assess tag integrity; look for tears, missing portions, or signs of replacement.
Match serial or model numbers with purchase records to verify authenticity.

Combining tag analysis with a thorough visual and tactile examination of the mattress surface yields a reliable assessment of whether bed‑bugs are present.

Identifying Signs of Infestation

Live Bed Bugs

Detecting live bed bugs in a mattress requires direct observation and targeted tools. Adult insects are reddish‑brown, 4–5 mm long, flat when unfed and balloon‑shaped after feeding. Nymphs are translucent to pale yellow and become darker with each molt. Their movement is slow; they rise when disturbed and hide in seams, folds, and tufts.

Effective inspection follows a systematic routine:

Remove all bedding and inspect the mattress surface with a bright flashlight.
Examine seams, stitching, and the underside of the mattress cover.
Use a fine‑toothed probe or a stiff card to lift fabric and reveal concealed insects.
Look for live bugs, shed skins (exuviae), tiny white eggs, and dark specks of feces (approximately 0.5 mm).
Place sticky traps or interceptors around the bed frame to capture wandering specimens.
Consider a trained detection dog for large‑area verification when visual methods are inconclusive.

Presence of any live individuals confirms infestation and mandates immediate treatment, such as targeted heat exposure, steam application, or professional pesticide use. Absence of live bugs, exuviae, eggs, and fecal spots after a thorough examination suggests the mattress is clear. Regular checks, especially after travel or exposure to infested environments, maintain early detection and prevent spread.

Bed Bug Eggs and Nymphs

Bed bug eggs are microscopic, measuring about 0.5 mm in length. They appear as tiny, white, oval capsules that are firmly glued to fabric fibers, seams, and stitching. The adhesive nature of the shells makes them difficult to dislodge; they often cluster in the creases of a mattress, under the ticking, and along the edges of the box spring. Because the eggs are translucent, they become more visible after a few days when they dry and turn a pale yellowish hue.

Nymphs emerge from the eggs after approximately 7–10 days at typical indoor temperatures. Newly hatched nymphs are 1.5–2 mm long, translucent, and lack the distinctive reddish‑brown coloration of mature insects. After each blood meal, they molt and darken, gaining a more recognizable appearance. By the third instar, nymphs are roughly 4 mm and display the classic bed bug silhouette, albeit still smaller than adults.

Detecting these early stages requires systematic inspection:

Use a bright, focused light source or a portable LED lamp to illuminate seams, folds, and the mattress perimeter.
Employ a magnifying glass or a 10× hand lens to examine suspected areas; the eggs and first‑instar nymphs become discernible under modest magnification.
Run fingertips along the mattress surface; a sticky or powdery residue may indicate the presence of egg shells.
Inspect the mattress cover, especially at tag seams and zippered closures, where females preferentially deposit eggs.
Place intercept traps or sticky pads beneath the bed legs; captured nymphs confirm an active infestation.

When examining a mattress, prioritize the following zones: the stitching line, the headboard contact area, the corners, and the underside of the mattress. Any detection of white capsules or translucent insects confirms that the mattress harbors bed bug development stages and warrants immediate treatment.

Fecal Stains (Dark Spots)

Fecal stains appear as small, dark spots on a mattress surface. The spots are typically black or brown, about the size of a pinhead, and may be more concentrated near seams, folds, or the headboard. These markings result from the excrement of the insect and indicate recent activity.

To distinguish fecal stains from other discolorations, consider the following characteristics:

Color: deep brown to black, not reddish or yellow.
Shape: irregular, often with a slightly raised edge.
Location: clustered along edges, seams, or crevices where the insect hides.
Texture: dry, may crumble when gently brushed.

When inspecting a mattress, use a bright, handheld light source to enhance contrast. A magnifying glass can help confirm the size and texture of the spots. If the stains are present, follow these steps:

Verify the presence of live insects or shed skins in the same area.
Vacuum the mattress surface and seams thoroughly.
Apply a bedbug‑specific spray or steam treatment to the affected zones.
Encase the mattress in a certified encasement to prevent re‑infestation.

Documenting the location and extent of fecal stains assists in assessing infestation severity and planning appropriate remediation.

Shed Skins (Exoskeletons)

Shed skins, also called exoskeletons, are the empty shells left behind when a bedbug molts. They are translucent, oval, and approximately 4 mm long, matching the shape of an adult insect but lacking the dark coloration of a live bug. Because they detach from the body, they remain on the mattress surface, seams, or within crevices, providing a reliable indicator of infestation.

When inspecting a mattress for bedbugs, locate shed skins before searching for live insects. Their presence confirms recent activity, even if adult bugs are not yet visible. The following procedure maximizes the likelihood of finding exoskeletons:

Remove bedding and wash at high temperature.
Use a bright flashlight to illuminate seams, tags, and the mattress edge.
Run a gloved finger or a soft brush along folds and stitching; exoskeletons feel crisp and may detach easily.
Examine the headboard, box spring, and surrounding furniture for similar shells.
Collect any found skins in a sealed container for laboratory confirmation, if needed.

Shed skins persist for several weeks after molting, so detection does not require immediate observation of live bugs. Their identification, combined with other signs such as fecal spots and live specimens, enables an accurate assessment of whether a mattress harbors bedbugs.

Blood Stains

Blood stains on a mattress can reveal a hidden infestation. Bedbugs feed on human blood, leaving tiny dark spots where they have been crushed or where their excrement mixes with blood. Recognizing these marks helps determine whether further investigation is needed.

To spot blood stains, examine the mattress surface and seams under bright lighting. Look for:

Small, rust‑colored dots about 1 mm in diameter
Smears that appear brighter under ultraviolet illumination
Stains that darken when exposed to heat or humidity

Distinguishing bedbug traces from other discolorations is essential. Fecal pellets are typically black or dark brown and have a dry, sand‑like texture, whereas blood stains are glossy and may spread outward from a central point. Stains that fade after washing or that appear only on the fabric surface usually indicate blood rather than insect waste.

If blood stains are present, follow these steps to confirm an infestation:

Isolate the affected area by removing bedding and washing it at ≥ 60 °C.
Use a magnifying lens (≥ 30×) to inspect the mattress seams, tags, and tufts for live insects, eggs, or shed skins.
Capture suspicious spots with a sterile swab and submit to a pest‑control laboratory for microscopic analysis.
If laboratory results show human blood, consider the likelihood of bedbug activity and proceed with professional extermination measures.

Blood stains, when correctly identified, provide a reliable early warning sign of bedbug presence, allowing prompt remedial action.

Checking Surrounding Areas

Bed Frame and Headboard

A sturdy bed frame and solid headboard create surfaces where bedbugs commonly hide, making them essential reference points during an infestation assessment. Inspecting these components helps confirm whether the mattress area is compromised.

Examine the frame joints, screws, and any wooden slats. Look for tiny dark spots, shed skins, or live insects along seams and under any fabric covering. Use a magnifying glass to detect the minute, oval‑shaped bugs and their eggs, which are about 5 mm long.

Turn attention to the headboard, especially if it contains upholstered panels or decorative crevices. Pull back any fabric or cushion to reveal the underlying structure. Check behind the headboard against the wall, where bedbugs may congregate in cracks or behind baseboards.

Recommended tools and procedures:

Flashlight with a focused beam to illuminate dark corners.
Fine‑toothed comb or soft brush to dislodge insects from fabric.
Clear plastic bags for collecting suspect specimens.
Sticky traps placed at the base of the frame and around the headboard for ongoing monitoring.

If any evidence appears on the frame or headboard, treat those areas with approved insecticide or heat‑based methods before addressing the mattress itself. Removing the source of infestation from the supporting structure reduces the likelihood of reinfestation and supports a thorough eradication effort.

Nearby Furniture and Walls

Inspecting a mattress for bedbugs cannot be isolated from its surroundings. Bedbugs travel across adjacent surfaces, making nearby furniture and walls critical inspection zones.

Start with the bed frame, nightstand, and any upholstered pieces within arm’s reach. Examine seams, cushions, and hidden folds for live insects, shed skins, or dark fecal spots. Use a bright flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to separate fabrics and reveal hidden activity.

Next, assess the wall space directly behind the headboard. Remove the headboard if possible and look for cracks, gaps, or peeling paint where bugs might hide. Check baseboards, electrical outlet covers, and any wall‑mounted shelves. Small clusters of insects or staining indicate migration pathways.

Finally, survey the floor area extending at least two feet from the bed. Look under rugs, behind door frames, and inside storage boxes. Bedbugs often exploit clutter to avoid detection.

Key inspection points:

Mattress seams, tags, and underlayers
Bed frame joints and slats
Nightstand cushions and drawer interiors
Headboard rear surface and wall cracks
Baseboards, outlet covers, and adjacent shelving
Floor coverings and nearby storage containers

Thorough examination of these elements provides a reliable assessment of infestation risk and guides effective treatment decisions.

Electrical Outlets and Baseboards

Inspecting a mattress for bedbugs requires examining adjacent structures where insects travel and hide. Electrical outlets and baseboards form a perimeter that often contains evidence of infestation.

Electrical outlets can reveal activity. Remove outlet covers, shine a flashlight into the cavity, and look for live insects, shed skins, or dark fecal spots. Bedbugs may seek the warm environment of wiring, making outlets a reliable inspection point.

Baseboards serve as travel routes. Pull back any trim or molding, and run a gloved hand along the edge to feel for tiny moving bodies. Use a magnifying lens to spot eggs or exuviae in cracks, seams, or dust accumulations. The presence of these signs near the mattress indicates a likely infestation.

Checklist for outlet and baseboard inspection:

Unscrew and lift outlet covers; illuminate interior.
Scan for live bugs, molted skins, or fecal stains.
Remove baseboard trim where accessible.
Examine seams and joints with magnification.
Record any findings and compare with mattress inspection results.

What to Do After Detection

Confirming the Infestation

Confirming an infestation requires systematic observation and evidence collection.

Visible indicators include adult insects, nymphs, shed skins, and small, rust‑colored fecal spots. These signs appear along seams, folds, and the mattress perimeter. Egg clusters, about the size of a pinhead, may be found in hidden crevices.

Human reactions provide indirect evidence. Repeated, clustered bites on exposed skin, especially in a line or pattern, suggest recent feeding activity.

A thorough inspection follows a defined sequence:

Dim the room, illuminate the mattress with a bright, focused light.
Examine all seams, piping, and tag areas with a magnifying lens.
Press fabric gently to dislodge hidden insects.
Inspect the bed frame, headboard, and box spring using the same method.

When visual cues are ambiguous, employ passive monitoring tools. Interceptor traps placed under the legs of the bed capture crawling insects. Sticky pads positioned at mattress edges collect stray specimens for later identification.

Professional verification involves collecting suspect specimens and sending them to an accredited laboratory or consulting a licensed pest‑management specialist. Laboratory analysis confirms species identity and infestation level, guiding appropriate remediation measures.

Next Steps for Extermination

After confirming the presence of bed‑bugs in a mattress, immediate action is essential to prevent spread and reduce infestation severity.

Isolate the affected bed. Move the mattress away from walls and other furniture, and keep bedding off the floor.
Strip the mattress of all linens, pillowcases, and covers. Wash each item in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Vacuum the mattress surface, seams, and crevices thoroughly. Empty the vacuum bag into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors.
Apply a labeled, EPA‑approved insecticide specifically formulated for bed‑bugs. Follow label directions regarding dosage, application method, and safety precautions.
Use a portable heat‑treatment device or arrange professional thermal remediation. Maintain mattress temperature at 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of 90 minutes to kill all life stages.
Encase the mattress in a certified bed‑bug proof cover. Seal the cover tightly and leave it on for at least one year to trap any surviving insects.
Inspect adjacent furniture, baseboards, and cracks. Treat any additional sites with the same insecticide and heat protocol.
Schedule a follow‑up inspection after 2–3 weeks. Re‑apply treatments if live insects are observed.

Document each step, retain receipts for chemicals and professional services, and maintain a clean environment to support long‑term eradication.