How to wash clothes to get rid of bedbugs?

Understanding Bed Bugs and Their Vulnerabilities

What are Bed Bugs?

Life Cycle and Behavior

Bedbugs develop through three distinct phases: egg, five nymphal instars, and adult. Eggs hatch in 6‑10 days at room temperature; each nymph requires a blood meal before molting to the next stage, a process that lasts 4‑10 days per instar. The complete cycle, from egg to reproducing adult, finishes in 4‑6 weeks under optimal conditions (22‑28 °C, 70‑80 % relative humidity). Adults can survive several months without feeding, extending the risk period for infested garments.

Feeding occurs exclusively at night, with insects seeking hosts in cracks, seams, and folds of clothing. After a blood meal, bedbugs retreat to protected micro‑habitats, where they remain motionless for several days. They tolerate brief exposure to low humidity but are vulnerable to temperatures above 45 °C and to desiccation when subjected to prolonged drying. Their ability to hide in fabric layers makes thorough laundering essential.

Effective laundering exploits thermal sensitivity and dehydration:

Use water temperature of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes; this exceeds the lethal threshold for all life stages.
Include a high‑speed spin cycle to remove residual moisture, reducing survival odds for any remaining eggs.
Follow washing with a dryer set to 70 °C (158 °F) for at least 20 minutes; heat eliminates insects that may have survived the wash.
For items that cannot endure high temperatures, employ a cold‑water wash combined with a commercial insecticidal laundry additive, then dry on high heat for the same duration.

By aligning washing protocols with the bedbug’s developmental timeline and physiological limits, contaminated clothing can be rendered free of viable insects.

Where Bed Bugs Hide

Bed bugs seek out concealed, warm environments where they can feed and reproduce without disturbance. Typical refuges include seams and folds of mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture. Cracks in bed frames, headboards, and nightstands provide additional shelter. Clothing stored in drawers, closets, or hampers can become secondary habitats, especially if items are left folded for extended periods. Piles of laundry, laundry baskets, and the interior of washing machines may harbor insects that have crawled out of infested garments. Wall voids, baseboard gaps, and behind wallpaper or picture frames also serve as hidden niches.

When laundering garments to eliminate these pests, recognize that any fabric that has been in contact with these micro‑habitats may contain viable insects or eggs. Treat all suspect items together, using the highest safe water temperature and a drying cycle of at least 30 minutes on high heat. This approach ensures that hidden bugs in seams, folds, and pockets are exposed to lethal conditions.

Key locations to inspect before washing:

Mattress seams, tags, and tufts
Box‑spring folds and internal panels
Sofa cushions, undercovers, and armrests
Chair and stool cracks, especially in wooden furniture
Clothing drawers, shelves, and hampers
Laundry baskets, especially those left open
Baseboard and wall crevices near sleeping areas

Identifying these sites allows comprehensive laundering, reducing the risk of re‑infestation after the wash cycle.

Why Washing is an Effective Method

Temperature Sensitivity of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs are highly susceptible to temperature extremes; exposure to sufficiently high or low temperatures results in rapid mortality.

Temperatures above 45 °C (113 °F) cause irreversible damage to the insect’s physiological systems, with lethal effects intensifying as the temperature rises. At 50 °C (122 °F) mortality occurs within a few minutes, while 60 °C (140 °F) eliminates all life stages in under one minute. Conversely, sustained exposure to freezing conditions below –17 °C (1 °F) for at least 48 hours also guarantees complete eradication.

During laundering, water must reach the target temperature throughout the entire load. A standard hot‑wash cycle set to 60 °C for a minimum of 30 minutes satisfies the heat‑kill requirement for most fabrics. Cold or warm cycles (≤40 °C) do not achieve the necessary thermal threshold and therefore fail to control bed‑bug infestations.

Practical guidelines:

Set the washing machine to a minimum of 60 °C; maintain the cycle for 30 minutes or longer.
Immediately transfer items to a dryer; operate at a minimum of 70 °C for 30 minutes.
For heat‑sensitive textiles, place garments in a sealed, airtight bag and freeze at –20 °C for a minimum of 72 hours before washing.

Confirm water temperature with a calibrated thermometer; verify dryer heat settings using a built‑in sensor or external probe. Consistent adherence to these temperature parameters ensures effective elimination of bed bugs from laundered clothing.

The Role of Detergents

Detergents break down the protective waxy coating on bedbug exoskeletons, allowing water and heat to penetrate more effectively. Surfactants lower surface tension, forcing the liquid into the smallest fabric fibers where insects hide.

Key properties that enhance insect eradication:

Alkaline pH (typically 9–10) destabilizes protein structures in the bug’s cuticle.
Enzymatic additives (proteases, lipases) digest organic residues that can shield insects.
High‑efficiency formulas produce more foam, ensuring thorough saturation of garments.

When laundering infested items, use the maximum recommended dose of a high‑alkaline, enzyme‑rich detergent. Combine with the hottest water temperature the fabric can tolerate (at least 60 °C/140 °F) and a long wash cycle. The detergent’s chemical action, together with heat, kills both adult bedbugs and their eggs embedded in the fibers.

Preparing for Laundry Treatment

Identifying Infested Items

Clothing and Linens

Effective elimination of bedbugs from garments and bedding requires precise laundering procedures. Use water temperature of at least 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes; this heat level kills all life stages of the insect. If fabrics cannot tolerate such heat, apply a pre‑wash soak in hot water for 15 minutes, then launder at the highest safe temperature.

Select the longest wash cycle available.
Add a detergent formulated for pest control, or combine regular detergent with a small amount of insecticidal soap.
Include a booster such as borax or oxygen bleach to enhance lethality.
Immediately after washing, transfer items to a dryer set to high heat (≥130 °F / 54 °C) for at least 30 minutes; the dry‑heat phase ensures any surviving bugs are exterminated.
For items that cannot be dried, place them in sealed polyethylene bags and expose them to direct sunlight for 6 hours, maintaining surface temperatures above 115 °F (46 °C).

Handle contaminated laundry with disposable gloves. Avoid shaking garments before washing to prevent dispersal of hidden bugs. Store cleaned items in sealed containers until the household is confirmed free of infestation. Repeat the process for all clothing, towels, sheets, and pillowcases within 48 hours of detection to prevent reinfestation.

Other Fabric Items

When bedbugs infest fabrics beyond everyday clothing, thorough laundering remains the most reliable eradication method. Use hot water at a minimum of 120 °F (49 °C) for all washable items; the temperature kills insects at every life stage. If the material cannot tolerate such heat, opt for an 80 °F (27 °C) wash followed immediately by a high‑heat dryer cycle of at least 130 °F (54 °C) for 30 minutes.

For delicate fabrics—silk, wool, or garments labeled “hand wash only”—apply a pre‑wash soak in a solution of 0.5 %–1 % sodium hypochlorite (if colorfast) or an enzymatic detergent for 30 minutes, then launder on the hottest permissible setting. After washing, place items in a dryer on the highest safe heat; prolonged exposure ensures any residual bugs or eggs are destroyed.

If drying machines are unavailable, use a commercial steam cleaner delivering steam at 212 °F (100 °C) for at least five minutes per surface. Steam penetrates seams and folds where insects hide. For items that cannot be steamed, seal them in a heavy‑duty plastic bag and freeze at 0 °F (‑18 °C) for a minimum of four days; the extreme cold halts metabolism and kills the pests.

When dealing with large or non‑washable textiles such as curtains, upholstered cushions, or carpet pads, follow these steps:

Remove loose debris with a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; empty the canister outdoors immediately.
Spot‑treat visible stains with a mixture of diluted bleach (if safe) or an alcohol‑based spray; allow five minutes of contact time.
Transfer the item to a professional laundering service that can apply commercial‑grade heat or dry‑cleaning solvents.
After treatment, store the cleaned fabric in sealed bags until the surrounding environment is confirmed pest‑free.

Consistently applying these procedures to all fabric belongings eliminates bedbug populations and prevents re‑infestation. Regular inspection and prompt laundering of any newly introduced textiles sustain a protected living space.

Pre-Treatment Steps

Bagging Infested Items

Bagging infested textiles isolates bedbugs and prevents their migration to other surfaces during handling and laundering. Use airtight, heavy‑duty polyethylene bags rated for pest control; zip‑lock or heat‑sealed varieties provide reliable closure.

Place each contaminated item inside a single bag. Do not overload; allow enough space for the fabric to move without tearing the seal. After insertion, expel excess air, then seal the bag tightly. Apply a label indicating the contents, date of collection, and intended treatment method.

Transport sealed bags directly to a laundry facility or designated treatment area. Keep bags upright and separate from clean laundry to avoid cross‑contamination. If immediate washing is not possible, store bags in a cool, dry location away from heat sources; temperature fluctuations can reactivate dormant insects.

When ready to launder, remove items from the bags only within the washing machine. Use the highest safe water temperature for the fabric (generally 60 °C/140 °F) and a full wash cycle with detergent. After washing, dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes to ensure complete eradication. Dispose of the used bags according to local pest‑control regulations.

Sorting by Fabric Type and Color

Proper sorting of laundry is essential when treating garments for bed‑bug elimination. Separate items by fabric construction because each material tolerates different wash temperatures and agitation levels. Delicate fabrics such as silk, lace, and wool require gentle cycles and lower heat, typically 30‑40 °C, while cotton, linen, and polyester can endure 60 °C or higher, the temperature proven to kill all life stages of the pest. Heavy items like blankets, towels, and denim should be placed in the machine’s largest load setting to ensure thorough water penetration and consistent heating.

Color separation prevents dye migration that could compromise the effectiveness of the wash. Dark and bright colors must be washed apart from whites to avoid staining, which could mask residual insects and make visual inspection difficult. Keeping whites separate also allows the use of bleach or oxygen‑based additives that enhance pest mortality without risking discoloration of colored fabrics.

Sorting procedure

Gather all infested garments and linens.
Divide into three groups:
- Delicates – silk, lace, wool, lingerie.
- Standard fabrics – cotton, polyester, blends.
- Heavy items – towels, blankets, denim.
Within each group, separate by color: whites, light colors, dark colors.
Load each group into the washer using the appropriate cycle and temperature:
- Delicates – gentle cycle, 30‑40 °C, mild detergent.
- Standard fabrics – normal cycle, ≥60 °C, regular detergent.
- Heavy items – heavy‑duty cycle, ≥60 °C, detergent with added enzymatic cleaners.
After washing, dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes; high‑temperature drying guarantees complete eradication.

Consistent application of this sorting method maximizes thermal exposure, preserves garment integrity, and eliminates the risk of cross‑contamination, ensuring a thorough removal of bed‑bugs from all clothing and textiles.

The Washing Process

Hot Water Washing

Recommended Temperature Settings

When laundering fabrics infested with bedbugs, temperature is the primary factor that determines whether the insects and their eggs are destroyed. Heat must reach a level that exceeds the thermal tolerance of all life stages; otherwise, survivors can repopulate the environment.

Hot wash: 60 °C (140 °F) or higher for at least 30 minutes. This temperature kills adult bugs, nymphs, and eggs in the wash cycle.
Dryer heat: 70 °C (158 °F) or higher for a minimum of 20 minutes. The dryer provides additional lethal exposure, especially for items that cannot withstand the higher wash temperature.
Cold wash: Not recommended for eradication. Temperatures below 30 °C (86 °F) allow survival of both insects and eggs.

If the fabric label permits, use the highest safe temperature to ensure complete mortality. For delicate items that cannot endure hot water, consider pre‑soaking in hot water followed by a cold rinse, then transfer to a dryer set at the recommended heat level. Consistently applying these temperature thresholds eliminates the bedbug population embedded in clothing.

Duration of Hot Water Cycle

A hot‑water wash must maintain a temperature of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a sufficient period to ensure bedbug mortality. Research indicates that exposure to this temperature for 30 minutes eliminates all life stages, including eggs. Therefore, set the machine’s main wash to run for a minimum of half an hour at the specified heat level.

If the cycle includes pre‑wash, main wash, and rinse phases, the cumulative time at or above 60 °C should still reach the 30‑minute threshold. For machines that heat water gradually, extend the overall program length or select a “sanitary” or “hot‑water” option that guarantees continuous high temperature.

Practical guidelines

Choose a cycle labeled “hot,” “sanitize,” or “heavy duty.”
Verify the water temperature with a thermometer if the machine does not display it.
Ensure the total time at ≥60 °C is no less than 30 minutes; longer cycles add a safety margin.
Avoid mixing heavily soiled items with delicate fabrics that could be damaged by prolonged heat.

Following these timing parameters maximizes the likelihood of eradicating bedbugs from laundry without compromising garment integrity.

Using Detergents and Additives

Standard Laundry Detergents

Standard laundry detergents remove bedbug eggs and adults when the wash cycle reaches temperatures that denature the insects’ proteins. Detergents contain surfactants that lower surface tension, allowing water to penetrate fabric fibers and contact hidden pests. Enzymes break down organic residues, exposing bugs to the detergent’s chemical action.

Effective use requires precise parameters:

Load detergent according to manufacturer’s dosage chart for the water hardness and load size.
Select a wash temperature of at least 60 °C (140 °F); higher temperatures increase mortality.
Choose a long‑duration cycle (30 minutes or more) to ensure thorough saturation.
Add an extra rinse to eliminate residual debris that could shelter surviving insects.

After washing, transfer garments to a dryer set on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. If a dryer is unavailable, place items in direct sunlight for several hours; ultraviolet exposure further reduces survivorship.

Repeated laundering of infested items, combined with proper drying, eliminates remaining stages and prevents re‑infestation. Standard detergents, when paired with the specified temperature and cycle settings, provide a reliable method for decontaminating clothing contaminated by bedbugs.

Insecticidal Laundry Additives («Optional»)

Insecticidal laundry additives can enhance the effectiveness of a wash cycle aimed at eliminating bedbugs from fabrics. These products contain chemicals such as pyrethrins, permethrin, or neonicotinoids that remain active after the rinse, targeting any insects that survive the hot‑water exposure.

When used, follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions precisely; typical recommendations range from 1 ml per 5 L of water to a pre‑measured tablet per load. Add the additive to the detergent compartment or directly to the drum after the detergent has dissolved, ensuring even distribution.

Key considerations:

Verify that the additive is labeled for use against bedbugs; some formulations target only general insects.
Confirm compatibility with the fabric type; delicate garments may require a milder concentration.
Observe safety guidelines: wear gloves, avoid inhalation, and keep the product away from children and pets.
Combine the additive with a wash temperature of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for maximum kill rate; lower temperatures reduce efficacy.
After washing, dry items on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes; heat complements the chemical action.

Optional use of insecticidal additives is advisable when a single hot‑wash cycle does not guarantee complete eradication, such as in heavily infested households or when re‑infestation risk is high. Regular laundering without additives can control minor contamination, but the added insecticide provides a chemical barrier that addresses resistant stages and hidden eggs.

Drying at High Heat

Recommended Dryer Settings

Effective dryer use is essential for eradicating bedbugs from laundered items. High heat destroys insects at all life stages; insufficient temperature allows survival.

Temperature: set to at least 130 °F (54 °C). Most commercial dryers reach 135–140 °F (57–60 °C), which guarantees lethal exposure.
Duration: run for a minimum of 30 minutes on the selected high‑heat setting. Extending to 45 minutes provides a safety margin for thicker fabrics.
Cycle type: choose “Sanitize,” “High Heat,” or “Cotton” cycles that maintain the required temperature throughout the entire period.
Load size: avoid overloading; leave enough space for air circulation. A half‑full drum ensures uniform heat distribution.
Moisture control: use the “Timed Dry” option rather than “Sensor Dry” to prevent premature termination when residual moisture triggers the sensor.
Post‑dry handling: transfer items directly to a sealed bag or container to prevent re‑infestation.

Regularly clean the lint filter and inspect the vent to maintain optimal airflow, which preserves the dryer’s ability to reach and sustain the target temperature.

Ensuring Thorough Drying

Thorough drying eliminates any surviving insects and eggs that may remain after laundering. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 30 minutes kills bedbugs at all life stages; moisture below that level permits survival.

Use a dryer set to the highest safe temperature for the fabric.
Run a full cycle; add an extra 10‑15 minutes for bulky items such as blankets or coats.
Verify that the interior drum reaches the target temperature with a calibrated thermometer.
For items that cannot tolerate high heat, place them in direct sunlight for a minimum of four hours, ensuring the surface temperature exceeds 120 °F.

After the cycle, inspect garments for remaining stains or live insects. Store dried clothing in sealed containers to prevent re‑infestation.

Post-Treatment and Prevention

Storing Clean Items

Sealing in Plastic Bags

Washing garments at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) destroys bedbug eggs and adults. After the wash cycle, use the highest dryer setting for at least 30 minutes to ensure complete heat treatment. Immediately following drying, place each item in a resealable polyethylene bag, expel excess air, and seal tightly. This barrier prevents surviving insects from escaping and protects clean laundry from re‑infestation.

Key practices for plastic‑bag containment:

Choose bags rated for freezer or storage use; they must be free of holes or tears.
Seal each bag with a zip‑lock or heat‑sealed closure to eliminate gaps.
Store sealed bags in a cool, dark area for a minimum of 14 days; any remaining bugs will die without a host.
Label bags with the date of sealing to track the quarantine period.

If a bag is compromised, repeat the washing and sealing process for the affected items. Combining high‑temperature laundering with airtight storage creates a reliable method to eradicate bedbugs from clothing.

Designated Storage Areas

Designated storage areas are essential after laundering infested garments because they prevent re‑infestation and contain any surviving insects. A sealed container or closet that remains inaccessible to pests creates a controlled environment for the cleaned items.

Select a storage space that meets the following conditions:

airtight seal or heavy‑duty zip lock;
temperature stability, preferably above 50 °C (122 °F) or below 0 °C (32 °F);
isolation from bedrooms, sofas, or other furniture;
easy access for periodic inspection.

Prepare the area before placing washed clothes:

Clean interior surfaces with a disinfectant solution.
Place a moisture‑absorbing packet to keep humidity low.
Install a light source that can be turned on for visual checks.

Store the dried laundry inside sealed bags or containers, label each package with the wash date, and keep the storage area closed at all times. Perform weekly visual inspections; if any signs of bedbugs appear, re‑launder the affected items and replace the storage container. Regularly replace moisture absorbers and disinfect the interior to maintain a hostile environment for any residual pests.

Cleaning the Laundry Area

Vacuuming and Wiping Surfaces

Vacuuming and wiping surfaces are essential steps before laundering infested garments. Thorough removal of bedbug remnants from the environment reduces the chance of re‑contamination during washing.

Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter.
Operate the machine slowly over mattresses, box springs, carpet edges, and upholstery seams.
Empty the canister or replace the bag immediately after use; seal it in a plastic bag before disposal.
Pay special attention to cracks, crevices, and hidden folds where insects hide.

After vacuuming, wipe all treated areas with a disinfectant solution containing at least 0.5 % bleach or an approved insecticidal spray. Apply the liquid to a clean cloth, dampen the surface, and allow it to remain wet for the manufacturer‑specified contact time. Focus on bed frames, nightstands, baseboards, and any hard‑surface furniture that contacts clothing. Repeat the process every few days until laundry cycles are completed, ensuring the environment remains free of viable bedbugs.

Inspecting Washer and Dryer

Before laundering infested garments, verify that the washer and dryer are free of bedbug remnants. Examine the drum, door seal, and rubber gaskets for live insects, shed skins, or eggs. Use a flashlight to spot hidden corners and fold the rubber tightly to expose concealed areas. If any evidence is found, remove it with a disposable cloth and dispose of the material in a sealed bag.

Clean the interior surfaces with hot, soapy water or a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Run an empty cycle on the hottest setting available, followed by a second empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar to neutralize residues. Rinse thoroughly after each cleaning cycle to prevent chemical buildup.

Inspect the dryer’s lint trap, exhaust vent, and interior cavity. Vacuum the lint trap and surrounding area to eliminate potential insects. Wipe the drum walls with the same hot‑soapy or bleach mixture used for the washer, then run a dry‑only cycle on the highest heat for at least 30 minutes. High temperatures will kill any surviving bugs or eggs.

After cleaning, perform a visual check to confirm the absence of activity. Only then proceed to wash and dry the contaminated clothing using the hottest water and dryer settings permissible for the fabrics. This preparation ensures that the appliance itself does not re‑introduce bedbugs into clean laundry.

Ongoing Prevention Strategies

Regular Inspections

Regular inspections of clothing are a practical step before laundering to confirm that bedbugs are not present on the items. Detecting insects, eggs, or shed skins early prevents the spread of infestation during the wash cycle and reduces the need for repeated treatments.

A systematic check includes:

Visual scan of seams, folds, and pockets under bright light.
Use of a magnifying lens to examine hidden areas such as cuffs, collars, and hems.
Tactile assessment of fabric for small, dark specks that may be eggs.
Inspection of laundry bags or containers for signs of infestation.

Perform these checks each time before placing garments in the washing machine. For households with known bedbug activity, schedule inspections every two to three days during the initial treatment phase, then weekly until no evidence is found for at least a month.

Combine inspections with proper washing protocols: wash inspected items in hot water (minimum 120 °F / 49 °C) for at least 30 minutes, followed by a high‑heat dryer cycle. If any item shows signs of infestation after inspection, isolate it and treat with a suitable insecticide or heat method before laundering.

Consistent inspection routine limits the chance that bedbugs survive the wash, supports overall eradication efforts, and minimizes the risk of re‑infestation.

Mattress and Furniture Protectors

Mattress and furniture protectors serve as a barrier that prevents bed‑bug infestations from spreading to bedding and upholstered items during the laundering process. By encasing mattresses, box springs, and sofas in zippered, insect‑proof covers, you isolate any hidden insects and eggs, allowing the heat and detergent used on clothing to act without re‑contamination.

When preparing to launder garments suspected of harboring bed bugs, follow these steps:

Remove all protective covers from mattresses and furniture. Seal each cover in a heavy‑duty plastic bag before transport to avoid accidental release.
Wash the covers separately at the highest temperature the fabric permits, ideally 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, for at least 30 minutes. Use a high‑efficacy detergent and add a booster such as borax if recommended by the manufacturer.
Dry the covers on a hot dryer cycle for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat exposure at this level kills both adult insects and their eggs.
Inspect the covers after drying. If any live insects are observed, repeat the wash‑dry cycle before reinstalling.
Re‑encase the mattress and furniture immediately after drying, ensuring the zipper is fully closed and the seam is intact.

Regular replacement of protectors—every 2–3 years for mattresses and annually for sofa covers—maintains barrier integrity. Combining these protective measures with thorough laundering of clothing maximizes the likelihood of eradicating bed‑bug populations from the home environment.

Professional Pest Control («When Necessary»)

Washing garments at high temperature can eradicate isolated bedbug stages, but extensive colonies often survive laundering and repopulate treated items. Persistent bites, live insects observed after multiple washes, or infestation spread across several rooms indicate that self‑treatment is insufficient.

Professional pest control services perform a systematic inspection to locate hiding places, assess infestation density, and determine the most effective eradication method. Typical interventions include:

Whole‑room heat treatment raising ambient temperature to 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of four hours, lethal to all life stages.
Targeted application of residual insecticides on cracks, baseboards, and furniture seams where heat cannot penetrate.
Follow‑up monitoring using interceptors and traps to verify elimination.

Coordination with laundry processes is essential. Clients should:

Seal washed clothing in airtight bags before the technician’s arrival.
Provide a list of items that required high‑temperature cycles.
Confirm that dryer settings reached at least 130 °F (54 °C) for the full drying period.
Allow access to storage areas where infested fabrics were kept prior to washing.

When professional intervention is employed, the combined effect of thermal exposure, chemical treatment, and ongoing surveillance eliminates residual populations that laundering alone cannot reach. This integrated approach restores a bedbug‑free environment more rapidly than repeated home washes.