How can I remove bed bugs from a bed at home?

Understanding the Enemy: Bed Bugs

Identifying Bed Bugs and Their Signs

What Do Bed Bugs Look Like?

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are wingless, oval‑shaped insects measuring approximately 4–5 mm in length when fully grown. Their bodies are flattened dorsally, allowing them to hide in narrow crevices. The adult’s color ranges from light brown after a blood meal to a deeper reddish hue when unfed, fading to a straw‑colored tone after several days without feeding. A distinct, pale‑white abdomen becomes visible through the translucent cuticle, especially in well‑lit conditions. Antennae consist of five short segments, and each leg ends in a claw that aids in climbing fabrics.

Key visual identifiers include:

Length: 4–5 mm (adult), 1.5–4.5 mm (nymphs).
Shape: flat, oval, resembling a small apple seed.
Color: reddish‑brown, becoming lighter after digestion.
Eyes: two small, dark spots on each side of the head.
Wings: absent; movement relies on walking.

Eggs are minute, about 0.5 mm, and appear as off‑white, oval bodies attached to seams or fabric fibers. Freshly hatched nymphs resemble miniature adults but lack the deep coloration and are transparent, making them harder to detect. Recognizing these characteristics aids in confirming infestation before initiating any eradication measures.

Common Signs of Infestation

Recognizing an infestation is essential before attempting any eradication measures.

Small, flat, reddish‑brown insects approximately 5 mm long, often found along mattress seams, box‑spring edges, or headboard crevices.
Tiny, white, oval eggs firmly attached to fabric, upholstery, or the underside of the mattress.
Dark, rust‑colored spots on sheets, pillowcases, or mattress fabric, representing fecal deposits.
Clusters of itchy, red welts on exposed skin, typically appearing after night‑time exposure.
A faint, sweet, musty odor detectable in severe cases.

These indicators confirm the presence of bed‑bug activity and should prompt immediate treatment of the sleeping surface.

Why Bed Bugs Are Hard to Eradicate

Bed Bug Biology and Behavior

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are small, wingless insects measuring 4–5 mm in length. Adults possess a flattened dorsal surface that facilitates movement beneath mattresses, box springs, and headboards. Nymphs resemble adults but are lighter in color and require multiple blood meals to molt through five instars before reaching maturity.

These parasites are nocturnal hematophages. Feeding occurs within 5–10 minutes, after which the insect retreats to a concealed refuge. Blood ingestion triggers rapid expansion of the abdomen, a visual cue for detection. Host-seeking behavior is guided by carbon‑dioxide, heat, and kairomones emitted by humans.

Reproduction proceeds via traumatic insemination; a female can lay 200–500 eggs over a lifetime. Eggs hatch in 6–10 days at 22–26 °C, and nymphal development completes in 4–6 weeks under optimal conditions. Warm, humid environments accelerate population growth, while temperatures below 15 °C prolong developmental stages.

Behavioral traits that influence control measures include:

Aggregation pheromones that concentrate individuals in cracks and seams.
Preference for permanent hiding places such as mattress seams, bed frame joints, and nearby wall voids.
Ability to survive up to a year without feeding, enabling persistence during periods of host absence.
Tolerance to temperatures between 0 °C and 45 °C; extreme heat (> 50 °C) or prolonged cold (< ‑15 °C) is lethal.

Recognition of these biological and behavioral characteristics informs targeted interventions for eradicating infestations from sleeping surfaces.

Common Hiding Spots in and Around the Bed

Bed bugs exploit every crevice that offers shelter and proximity to a host. Understanding the typical refuges around a sleeping surface is essential for effective eradication.

The mattress itself hides insects in seam lines, under the quilting, and within the internal padding. The box spring contains fabric pockets and wooden slats where bugs can nest. Headboards, especially those made of wood or fabric, present gaps and drilled holes that serve as shelters. Bed frames and railings offer junctions and screw holes that accumulate debris and insects.

Additional locations in the bedroom contribute to reinfestation:

Cracks and gaps in wall plaster or baseboards near the bed
Behind picture frames, wall art, and mirrors attached to the headboard wall
Electrical outlet covers and switch plates adjacent to the sleeping area
Floor vents and heating ducts that connect directly to the room
Under carpets or rugs that cover the floor beneath the bed
Nightstands, dressers, and other furniture positioned close to the mattress, especially within drawer seams and hollow legs

Even seemingly minor voids, such as loose floorboards or the underside of a canopy, can host a colony. Thorough inspection of each listed spot, followed by targeted treatment, reduces the likelihood of surviving bugs and prevents re‑infestation.

Preparing for Battle: Pre-Treatment Steps

Decluttering and Cleaning the Bedroom

Removing All Items from the Bed Area

Removing all items from the bed area is a prerequisite for any effective bed‑bug eradication effort. The process eliminates hiding places, prevents re‑infestation, and facilitates thorough treatment of the mattress, frame, and surrounding surfaces.

Strip the bed completely: pillows, blankets, sheets, mattress protector, and any decorative cushions. Place each item in sealed plastic bags to contain any insects.
Relocate furniture that contacts the bed: nightstands, dressers, and chairs. Move them at least one foot away from the sleeping surface to expose potential entry points.
Clear the floor space surrounding the bed: vacuum carpet, rugs, and floorboards; discard or treat any clutter such as books, toys, or clothing that may harbor bugs.
Inspect and clean the mattress and box spring: vacuum seams, folds, and stitching; apply a heat‑based or chemical treatment according to product instructions.
Dispose of or launder all textiles at temperatures of 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, or seal them for a minimum of 14 days to ensure mortality of any hidden stages.

After the area is cleared, continue with targeted treatment and monitoring. Maintaining a clutter‑free environment reduces the likelihood of future infestations and supports long‑term control.

Laundering All Linens and Clothing

Laundering every sheet, pillowcase, blanket, and piece of clothing that has contacted the infested sleeping surface eliminates hidden insects and their eggs.

Use the following protocol:

Sort items by fabric type; place delicate textiles in mesh bags to prevent damage.
Set the washing machine to the hottest allowable temperature, at least 49 °C (120 °F). Hot water penetrates seams and kills all life stages.
Add a full‑dose laundry detergent; enzymatic formulas enhance removal of organic residues that attract pests.
Run a complete wash cycle; avoid short or eco cycles that do not sustain required heat duration.
Transfer washed items immediately to a dryer set to high heat (minimum 65 °C / 149 °F). A fifteen‑minute tumble at this temperature guarantees mortality of any surviving specimens.
For items that cannot be machine‑dried, place them in a sealed plastic bag and expose them to direct sunlight for several hours; ultraviolet radiation and heat together provide lethal conditions.

After drying, store clean linens in airtight containers until the bedroom is treated and confirmed free of infestation. Repeating the laundering process after each treatment cycle prevents re‑introduction.

Encasing Mattress and Box Spring

The Importance of Mattress Encasements

Mattress encasements are zippered covers that completely surround a mattress and box spring, creating a sealed barrier against insects. The design traps any existing pests inside the fabric and prevents new organisms from penetrating the sleeping surface.

A sealed encasement eliminates the primary refuge for bed bugs, reducing their ability to feed and reproduce. By isolating the mattress, the insects cannot reach a host, which interrupts their life cycle and accelerates population decline. The barrier also protects the sleeper from bites and limits the spread of an infestation to surrounding furniture.

Key characteristics to consider:

Fabric: tightly woven, tear‑resistant material
Waterproof layer: prevents moisture buildup and deters mold
Zipper: double‑track, self‑locking mechanism with no gaps
Size: exact fit for mattress dimensions, including pillow tops
Certification: compliance with pest‑control standards (e.g., EPA‑approved)

Effective use requires the following steps:

Remove all bedding and vacuum the mattress surface.
Position the encasement, ensuring the zipper aligns fully with the mattress edges.
Seal the zipper completely, checking for any misalignment.
Wash the encasement regularly according to manufacturer instructions to remove any trapped insects or eggs.

Implementing a high‑quality mattress encasement reduces reliance on chemical treatments, safeguards the sleeping environment, and prolongs the lifespan of the mattress while contributing to a comprehensive eradication strategy.

Proper Application of Encasements

Encasements designed for bed‑bug control create a physical barrier that isolates pests from the sleeping surface and prevents new infestations from reaching the mattress and box spring. The barrier must be continuous, airtight, and durable enough to withstand daily use.

Choose a product certified as bed‑bug‑proof, featuring a fabric with a weave of at least 300 threads per inch and a zipper that overlaps by at least one inch.
Verify dimensions exceed the mattress and box‑spring measurements by at least two inches on all sides to avoid gaps.
Ensure the zipper incorporates a double‑track system that locks securely when closed.

Installation proceeds in a systematic sequence. First, strip the bed of all linens, pillowcases, and blankets. Launder each item in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes to eliminate any hidden insects and eggs. Next, place the encasement over the mattress, aligning the corners precisely. Pull the zipper slowly, confirming that the seal remains continuous and that no fabric is twisted. After sealing, repeat the process for the box spring, using a separate encasement if the product does not cover both components in one piece. Finally, replace only heat‑treated bedding to maintain the barrier’s integrity.

Monitoring and maintenance are critical for long‑term effectiveness. Conduct weekly visual inspections of the zipper seam and surrounding fabric for signs of wear or breach. If any damage is detected, replace the encasement immediately. Wash the encasement quarterly according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using hot water and high‑heat drying, to eradicate any insects that may have entered before sealing. Retain the barrier for at least one year, the typical life cycle of the pest, before considering removal.

Vacuuming Thoroughly

Using a HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

A HEPA‑equipped vacuum cleaner removes bed‑bug adults, nymphs, and eggs from a mattress by trapping particles as small as 0.3 µm, preventing re‑infestation through the exhaust.

Before vacuuming, strip the bed of all linens, wash them in hot water (≥ 60 °C), and dry on high heat. Inspect the mattress for visible bugs, shed skins, and fecal spots; mark affected zones with a disposable sticker.

Vacuuming procedure

Attach the HEPA filter and select a narrow nozzle to reach seams, folds, and tufts.
Move the nozzle slowly (≈ 1 cm s⁻¹) along each seam, edge, and headboard contact point.
Overlap strokes by 50 % to ensure complete coverage.
Repeat the process on the box spring and headboard, then on the floor surrounding the bed.

After vacuuming, immediately empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container. Apply a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control to cracks and crevices, then reinstall clean linens. Regular HEPA vacuum sessions, combined with heat treatment, sustain a bug‑free sleeping surface.

Disposing of Vacuum Contents Safely

When a vacuum is used to extract bed‑bug eggs and adults from a mattress, the collected material must be sealed immediately to prevent re‑infestation. After the device is turned off, remove the bag or empty the canister into a sturdy trash bag, then close the bag tightly. Place the sealed bag in an outdoor garbage container that is emptied regularly, or store it in a freezer at –18 °C for at least 72 hours before disposal.

Recommended disposal procedure:

Detach the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a heavy‑duty plastic bag.
Tie the bag securely; avoid loose knots that could release contents.
Label the bag «Bed‑bug material – do not open».
Transfer the sealed bag to an outdoor trash bin that is inaccessible to pets and children.
If municipal collection is infrequent, store the bag in a freezer for three days, then repeat the sealing step before discarding.

Cleaning the vacuum itself reduces the risk of hidden insects. Run the filter through hot water (≥ 130 °F) for several minutes, then dry completely before reinstalling. For bag‑less models, wipe the interior with a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol and allow it to air‑dry.

By following these actions, the likelihood of spreading bed‑bug remnants after treatment is minimized.

Active Treatment Methods

Heat Treatment for Bed Bugs

Using a Steam Cleaner

Steam cleaning provides a rapid, chemical‑free solution for eliminating bed‑bug infestations in a mattress. The device generates saturated vapor at temperatures of 120 °C (248 °F) or higher, a range lethal to all life stages of the pest. Direct contact with the vapor collapses the insects’ exoskeletons and destroys eggs, while the heat penetrates seams, folds, and stuffing where bugs hide.

Preparation and execution require systematic steps:

Remove all bedding, wash at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, and dry on high heat.
Vacuum the mattress surface and crevices, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately.
Fill the steam cleaner with distilled water, attach the appropriate nozzle for upholstery, and allow the unit to reach full operating temperature.
Apply steam slowly, moving the nozzle no more than 2 cm from the fabric, covering each area for at least 10 seconds. Overlap passes to ensure complete coverage.
Allow the mattress to dry thoroughly before replacing clean bedding.

Repeated treatment enhances efficacy; a second session after 7–10 days targets any newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial exposure. Combining steam cleaning with encasement covers and regular inspections yields long‑term suppression.

Safety considerations are essential. Excessive moisture can promote mold growth; limit steam application to the required dwell time and ventilate the room afterward. Delicate fabrics, such as silk or certain synthetics, may discolor under high heat; test a concealed area before full treatment. Use heat‑resistant gloves and eye protection to avoid burns from the vapor jet.

When applied correctly, a steam cleaner offers a swift, environmentally responsible method for eradicating bed bugs from a sleeping surface.

Portable Heat Chambers

Portable heat chambers provide a controlled environment that raises the temperature of a mattress to levels lethal for bed‑bug life stages. The device consists of a insulated enclosure, a heating element, a thermostat, and a timer. When the chamber reaches 45 °C (113 °F) and maintains this temperature for at least 30 minutes, eggs, nymphs, and adults are exterminated.

To use a portable heat chamber for a bed‑bug infestation:

Remove bedding and place the mattress inside the chamber.
Seal all openings to prevent heat loss.
Set the thermostat to 45 °C and activate the timer for 30–45 minutes.
Monitor temperature with the built‑in sensor; the device will shut off automatically once the cycle ends.
Allow the mattress to cool before returning linens.

Key advantages include:

No chemical residues, eliminating health risks for occupants and pets.
Uniform heat distribution reduces the chance of surviving insects in hidden seams.
Reusability for multiple treatments or for other infested items such as luggage and furniture.

Safety considerations:

Verify that the chamber’s materials can withstand high temperatures without warping.
Keep the device away from flammable objects and ensure proper ventilation in the surrounding area.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding maximum load weight and electrical requirements.

Portable heat chambers represent an effective, non‑toxic solution for home‑based eradication of bed‑bug populations in sleeping surfaces. «Proper temperature control and sufficient exposure time are essential for complete mortality.»

Cold Treatment for Bed Bugs

Freezing Infested Items

Freezing is an effective, chemical‑free method for eliminating bed‑bug stages on items that cannot be laundered or heated. The approach relies on exposing the material to temperatures low enough to cause mortality in all life stages, including eggs, within a defined period.

A portable freezer or a standard home freezer set to a temperature of ‑18 °C (0 °F) or lower provides the required conditions. Items such as books, electronics, shoes, and delicate fabrics should be sealed in airtight plastic bags to prevent condensation and re‑infestation after treatment.

Steps for successful freezing:

Place infested objects in sealed, moisture‑resistant bags.
Load bags into the freezer, ensuring they do not touch each other to allow uniform cooling.
Maintain the temperature at ‑18 °C (0 °F) or below for a minimum of 72 hours; longer periods increase reliability.
After the exposure period, remove items, allow them to return to ambient temperature while still sealed, then inspect for remaining insects before use.

Limitations include the need for a freezer capable of sustained low temperatures and the inability to treat large bedding items directly. For mattresses or large fabric surfaces, combine freezing of removable components with alternative methods such as heat treatment or professional pest control.

Chemical Treatments: When and How

Diatomaceous Earth Application

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine, inert powder composed of fossilized diatom shells. Its abrasive particles damage the exoskeleton of bed‑bugs, leading to dehydration and death without chemical toxicity.

Before treatment, remove all bedding, wash in hot water, and dry on high heat. Vacuum the mattress, box spring, and surrounding frame to eliminate visible insects and debris. Ensure the area is dry, as moisture reduces DE effectiveness.

Application steps:

Lightly dust the entire mattress surface, paying special attention to seams, tufts, and folds.
Sprinkle a thin layer along the headboard, footboard, and under the bed frame.
Allow the powder to settle for 24 hours; avoid disturbing it during this period.
After the exposure time, vacuum the mattress thoroughly to remove residual DE.

Safety considerations: wear a dust mask to prevent inhalation of fine particles; keep DE away from children and pets. Repeat the process weekly until no live insects are observed, then maintain a preventive dusting every few months. This method integrates well with heat treatment and regular inspections for lasting control.

Contact Sprays for Bed Bugs

Contact sprays are ready‑to‑use formulations that kill bed bugs on contact. They contain fast‑acting neurotoxic ingredients such as pyrethrins, pyrethroids, or neonicotinoids. The chemicals penetrate the insect’s exoskeleton, disrupt nervous system function, and cause rapid mortality.

Effective use requires the following steps:

Remove all bedding, curtains, and clothing from the mattress. Wash items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Vacuum the mattress surface, seams, and surrounding frame to reduce the population and eliminate debris that can shield insects.
Apply the spray evenly to all exposed mattress surfaces, including the headboard, footboard, box spring, and bed frame. Follow the product label for the recommended dosage and distance from the fabric.
Allow the treated area to dry completely before replacing bedding. Re‑apply after 7–10 days if the label advises a repeat treatment.
Store the remaining spray in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and pets.

Safety considerations:

Use a mask and gloves to avoid inhalation and skin contact with the aerosol.
Ensure adequate ventilation by opening windows or using a fan.
Verify that the selected product is approved for indoor use on sleeping surfaces; some formulations are restricted to cracks, crevices, or baseboards only.

Limitations:

Contact sprays affect only bugs present at the time of application; newly hatched nymphs and hidden individuals may survive.
Re‑infestation can occur if eggs remain untreated; integrating other control methods such as heat treatment or encasements improves overall success.

Choosing a reputable brand, adhering strictly to label instructions, and combining spray treatment with thorough cleaning constitute a practical approach to reducing bed bug presence on a mattress at home.

Growth Regulators

Insect growth regulators (IGRs) disrupt the development of bed‑bug nymphs by mimicking or inhibiting natural hormones, preventing molting and reproduction. Adult insects remain unaffected; the population declines as emerging nymphs fail to mature.

Application to a sleeping surface requires thorough preparation. All bedding, linens, and mattress covers must be removed and laundered at high temperature. The mattress, box spring, and surrounding frame should be vacuumed to eliminate visible insects and debris. IGR‑containing spray or aerosol is then applied to the exposed surfaces, focusing on seams, tufts, and crevices where nymphs hide. Spraying continues until a light, uniform mist coats the material, then the area is left to dry according to the product’s label, typically 4–6 hours, before bedding is replaced.

Common IGR products for domestic use include:

«Hydroprene» (hydroprene, 0.1 % concentration) – effective against early‑instar nymphs.
«SumiShield» (methoprene, 0.5 % concentration) – provides residual activity for up to 90 days.
«Novaluron» (novaluron, 0.02 % concentration) – interferes with chitin synthesis, suitable for mixed‑stage infestations.

Each product specifies a maximum application rate per square foot; adherence prevents over‑exposure and ensures efficacy.

IGRs function best when combined with non‑chemical tactics: heat treatment (≥ 45 °C for 30 minutes), steam cleaning, and regular vacuuming maintain low nymphal survival. Re‑treatment after 30 days addresses any newly hatched individuals, completing the control cycle.

Post-Treatment and Prevention

Monitoring for Reinfestation

Regular Inspections

Regular inspections form the backbone of any effective home‑based bed‑bug eradication plan. Early detection prevents colonies from expanding, reduces the need for intensive chemical treatments, and limits re‑infestation risk.

Key elements of a systematic inspection routine:

Examine seams, tufts, and tags of the mattress and box spring at least once a week. Look for live insects, shed skins, or rust‑colored spots.
Inspect the headboard, nightstand drawers, and nearby baseboards. Bed bugs frequently hide in cracks and behind furniture.
Use a bright flashlight or a portable LED lamp to illuminate dark crevices. A magnifying glass improves visual accuracy.
Record findings in a simple log: date, location, and evidence type. Consistent documentation reveals patterns and guides targeted interventions.
Conduct a secondary check after any treatment session. Confirm that no new signs appear before resuming normal use of the bed.

Maintaining this schedule, especially during warm months when bed‑bug activity peaks, sustains control measures and supports long‑term elimination.

Bed Bug Interceptors

Bed bug interceptors are small, cup‑shaped devices placed under the legs of a mattress or box spring. The inner surface is coated with a sticky adhesive that captures insects attempting to climb onto the bed, while the outer rim prevents escape. This passive trap creates a visual indicator of infestation severity and helps contain the spread.

The mechanism relies on the insect’s natural upward movement. As bed bugs seek a blood meal, they encounter the adhesive barrier and become immobilized. Trapped individuals cannot reproduce, reducing population growth without chemical intervention.

Installation procedure:

Remove all bedding and position the bed frame so that each leg is exposed.
Place one interceptor beneath each leg, ensuring the larger opening faces upward.
Verify that the device sits flush with the floor to avoid gaps.
Replace bedding only after confirming that interceptors are correctly positioned.

Maintenance guidelines:

Inspect interceptors daily for captured insects; record findings to monitor trends.
Clean the adhesive surface weekly with a soft brush, avoiding solvents that could damage the sticky layer.
Replace the interceptor when adhesive loses effectiveness or after a month of continuous use.

When combined with regular laundering, vacuuming, and sealing of cracks, bed bug interceptors provide a reliable, non‑chemical method for reducing bed‑bug activity in a domestic sleeping area.

Preventing Future Infestations

Travel Precautions

Travel precautions play a decisive role in preventing bed‑bug introductions to a home environment.

Before departure, examine lodging reviews for reports of infestations. Pack clothing in sealed plastic bags and store luggage on elevated surfaces such as luggage racks or tables. Consider using travel‑size mattress encasements that resist insect penetration.

During the stay, inspect bedding and furniture for small reddish spots or live insects. Keep personal items in sealed containers, and avoid placing garments directly on the bed or sofa.

After returning, isolate luggage in an outdoor area for at least 48 hours. Wash all garments and linens at temperatures of 60 °C or higher, then dry on high heat. Vacuum the mattress, bed frame, and surrounding floor, discarding the vacuum bag immediately.

If signs of infestation appear, implement the following measures:

Apply localized heat (≥ 50 °C) to the mattress for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Install a certified bed‑bug encasement that seals all seams.
Reduce clutter to limit hiding places.
Contact a licensed pest‑control professional for integrated pest‑management treatment.

Adhering to these precautions minimizes the risk of transporting bed bugs from travel destinations and supports effective remediation should an infestation arise.

Inspecting Secondhand Furniture

Inspecting used furniture is a critical step when addressing a bed‑bug infestation in a sleeping area. Secondhand items often hide insects in seams, joints, and fabric folds, providing a pathway for re‑introduction after treatment.

When evaluating a piece of pre‑owned furniture, follow these actions:

Conduct a visual scan under bright light; focus on mattress tags, box‑spring seams, and upholstered cushions.
Use a magnifying lens to examine crevices, stitching, and any detachable components.
Run a lint roller or adhesive tape across surfaces; examine the tape for tiny, reddish‑brown specks or shed skins.
Tap the item over a white sheet or paper; observe any falling debris that may contain insects.
Isolate the piece in a sealed bag or container until a professional assessment confirms it is free of pests.

If any evidence of bed‑bugs appears, reject the item or subject it to a proven eradication method such as heat treatment at ≥ 50 °C for several hours. Only furniture that passes a thorough inspection should enter the bedroom environment.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Consistent cleaning disrupts bed bug life cycles and reduces population density. Vacuuming the mattress, box spring, and surrounding floor daily removes eggs, nymphs, and adults before they can hide. After each session, empty the vacuum bag into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors to prevent re‑infestation.

Strip bedding and launder sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes; tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes.
Wash mattress covers and pillow protectors regularly; choose encasements labeled “bug‑proof” and replace them if tears appear.
Inspect seams, tufts, and folds of the mattress; use a stiff brush to dislodge insects and debris, then vacuum the area.
Mop or steam‑clean the floor adjacent to the bed; steam temperatures above 50 °C kill hidden stages.

Maintain a clutter‑free environment around the sleeping area. Remove piles of clothing, books, or luggage that provide shelter. Periodically rotate the mattress 180 degrees to expose all surfaces to cleaning actions. Implement these routines to sustain a hostile environment for bed bugs and support other control measures.