Is it possible to permanently eliminate bedbugs from an apartment?

Understanding Bed Bugs and Their Persistence

The Nature of Bed Bug Infestations

Life Cycle and Reproduction

Bedbugs progress through a predictable development sequence that directly influences control strategies. An adult female lays 1‑5 eggs daily, up to 200 over a lifetime, depositing them in protected crevices. Eggs hatch within 6‑10 days at typical indoor temperatures, releasing first‑instar nymphs.

Nymphs undergo five molts before reaching maturity. Each stage lasts 4‑14 days, depending on ambient heat and blood availability. After each molt, the insect requires a blood meal to advance, creating a continuous demand for host contact. The complete cycle—from egg to reproducing adult—can be completed in as little as 30 days under optimal conditions, allowing rapid population expansion.

Reproduction is constrained by two factors: temperature and feeding frequency. Temperatures below 15 °C extend developmental intervals, while temperatures above 30 °C accelerate them but increase mortality if extreme. Access to a host every few days is essential; without blood, nymphs cannot molt and eventually die.

Key implications for eradication:

Eliminate all harborages where eggs and early nymphs can hide (e.g., seams, baseboards, furniture joints).
Maintain indoor temperatures below 15 °C for several weeks to disrupt development, then raise to 30 °C for a short period to induce mortality in later stages.
Apply insecticidal treatments that target both adult insects and newly hatched nymphs; repeat applications at intervals matching the 4‑14 day nymphal periods.
Conduct thorough inspections after each feeding cycle to verify the absence of live specimens before declaring success.

Understanding the life cycle enables a systematic approach that prevents reinfestation and supports a lasting solution.

Hiding Spots and Behavior

Bedbugs exploit minute cracks, seams, and concealed cavities to avoid detection, making thorough inspection essential for any lasting control effort.

Mattress tags, box‑spring folds, and headboard joints harbor insects after feeding.
Upholstered furniture cushions, under‑seat frames, and decorative pillows provide additional refuge.
Wall baseboards, electrical outlet covers, and picture‑frame backs conceal adult bugs and eggs.
Behind wallpaper, under carpet edges, and within floor‑board gaps serve as long‑term shelters.

Bedbugs display nocturnal activity, emerging to feed on exposed skin while the host sleeps. After a blood meal, they retreat to the nearest safe zone to digest and molt, remaining hidden for days to weeks depending on temperature and life stage. Females lay eggs in protected micro‑environments; each egg is less than a millimeter and adheres to surfaces that are difficult to reach without disassembly. Nymphs hatch and immediately seek shelter, repeating the cycle. Understanding these preferences enables targeted treatment, reducing the likelihood of re‑infestation and supporting a permanent solution.

Why Elimination Is Challenging

Resilience of Bed Bugs

Bed bugs possess several biological and behavioral traits that make eradication challenging. Their small size enables them to hide in minute cracks, seams, and upholstery, creating reservoirs that survive surface treatments. Adult insects can endure temperatures up to 45 °C for several hours, while eggs remain viable at lower temperatures, allowing populations to persist through thermal control attempts that are not precisely calibrated.

Resistance mechanisms further increase resilience. Repeated exposure to pyrethroid insecticides has selected for genetic mutations that reduce susceptibility, rendering many conventional sprays ineffective. Metabolic detoxification pathways enable insects to break down a variety of chemical agents, shortening the useful lifespan of new formulations.

Survival strategies extend beyond chemical defenses. Bed bugs can survive without a blood meal for months, entering a dormant state when hosts are unavailable. This ability to endure prolonged starvation permits them to reappear after apparent clearance, especially when detection is limited to visible infestations.

Key factors contributing to their durability include:

Physical concealment: Ability to infiltrate structural voids and furniture.
Thermal tolerance: Survival at a wide temperature range, requiring precise heat treatment.
Chemical resistance: Genetic and enzymatic adaptations to insecticides.
Starvation endurance: Extended fasting periods without mortality.
Reproductive capacity: Females lay up to five eggs per day, rapidly rebuilding populations.

Effective, long‑term removal therefore demands an integrated approach: thorough inspection, targeted heat or steam application, use of insecticides with proven efficacy against resistant strains, and continuous monitoring to intercept re‑infestation cycles. Without addressing each resilience factor, complete and permanent elimination remains unlikely.

Common Mistakes in DIY Treatment

Bedbug control often fails when homeowners rely on incomplete or misguided do‑it‑yourself methods. The most frequent errors undermine the chance of lasting eradication.

Inadequate Inspection – Skipping a thorough survey of cracks, seams, and hidden zones leaves viable colonies untouched. Visual checks must extend to box springs, behind baseboards, and inside furniture joints.
Insufficient Treatment Coverage – Applying insecticide to only visible insects ignores eggs and concealed nymphs. Effective products require coverage of all potential harborages, not just the obvious infestations.
Improper Product Selection – Using sprays designed for surface insects rather than formulations certified for bedbugs reduces efficacy. Products must contain active ingredients proven to penetrate the insect’s protective waxy layer.
Failure to Follow Label Directions – Ignoring dosage, drying time, and re‑application intervals compromises residual activity. Precise adherence to manufacturer instructions is essential for sustained control.
Neglecting Heat or Steam – Relying solely on chemicals while omitting heat treatments misses a critical kill mechanism for eggs and resistant stages. Temperatures above 120 °F (49 °C) sustained for at least 30 minutes are required for complete mortality.
Inadequate Post‑Treatment Monitoring – Discontinuing observation after the first apparent success allows surviving bugs to repopulate. Regular traps and visual checks for several weeks confirm whether the infestation has been fully suppressed.
Cross‑Contamination – Moving infested items to other rooms without isolation spreads the problem. Items should be sealed in plastic bags or treated before relocation.

Eliminating bedbugs permanently demands a systematic approach that addresses every life stage, all hideouts, and the need for continuous verification. Overlooking any of these common pitfalls typically results in recurrence, requiring professional intervention later.

Strategies for Effective Bed Bug Eradication

Professional Pest Control Services

Inspection and Identification

Effective eradication of bedbugs begins with a thorough inspection and accurate identification. Visual examination should cover all sleeping areas, including mattress seams, box springs, headboards, and bed frames. Inspect crevices in baseboards, furniture joints, and wall hangings. Look for live insects, shed exoskeletons, and rust‑colored fecal spots.

Key indicators of infestation:

Small, reddish‑brown adults (4–5 mm) on fabric surfaces.
Tiny, translucent nymphs that increase in size after each molt.
Dark, oval eggs attached to seams or hidden folds.
Tiny, dark spots (excrement) on bedding or walls.
Blood‑stained mattress seams after the insect feeds.

Use a flashlight and a magnifying lens to improve detection. A handheld steamer can reveal hidden insects by exposing them to heat, but it does not replace visual confirmation. Sticky traps placed near suspected harborage zones capture wandering bugs and confirm activity patterns.

Species verification relies on morphological details: adult bedbugs have a flattened, oval shape with a wing‑like membrane covering the abdomen; nymphs lack fully developed wings. If uncertainty persists, collect specimens in sealed containers and submit them to an accredited entomology laboratory for microscopic analysis.

Professional pest‑control operators employ trained detection dogs, which can locate low‑level populations that escape visual surveys. Their reports provide precise mapping of infestation zones, enabling targeted treatment and reducing the risk of reinfestation.

Document findings with photographs and notes on location, life stage observed, and environmental conditions. This record guides subsequent interventions, ensures comprehensive coverage, and supports verification of long‑term success.

Treatment Methods Employed by Professionals

Professional pest‑control operators employ a combination of proven interventions to achieve lasting eradication of bedbugs in residential units. The approach integrates chemical, thermal, and physical techniques, followed by systematic monitoring to prevent reinfestation.

Insecticide application: Licensed technicians apply EPA‑registered products, targeting concealed harborages and contact surfaces. Sprays, dusts, and aerosolized formulations are selected based on resistance profiles and safety considerations.
Heat treatment: Whole‑room heating raises interior temperatures to 50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of four hours, ensuring lethal exposure for all life stages. Thermometers placed throughout the space verify uniform heat distribution.
Steam penetration: High‑temperature steam (≥100 °C) is directed into cracks, seams, and fabric items, delivering rapid mortality to bugs and eggs without chemical residues.
Cryonite or CO₂ freezing: Rapid cooling to –78 °C using liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide destroys insects on contact, especially effective on delicate items that cannot withstand heat.
Fumigation: Enclosed‑space fumigants, such as sulfuryl fluoride, are deployed when infestations are extensive and other methods are insufficient. Certified applicators control exposure time and ventilation to meet safety standards.
Integrated pest management (IPM): Combines the above tactics with preventive measures—clutter reduction, mattress encasements, and regular inspections—to sustain control over the long term.

After treatment, technicians conduct post‑treatment inspections, using visual checks and passive monitors to confirm the absence of activity. Clients receive a written remediation plan outlining required follow‑up actions, such as laundering bedding at high temperatures and maintaining reduced clutter. Consistent adherence to these protocols markedly increases the probability of permanent bedbug elimination in an apartment.

Chemical Treatments

Chemical treatments remain the primary tool for eradicating bedbugs in a residential setting. Professionals apply registered insecticides directly to infestations, targeting hiding places such as mattress seams, baseboards, and wall voids. The most common classes include pyrethroids, which disrupt nerve function, and neonicotinoids, which bind to insect receptors. Desiccant powders—silica gel or diatomaceous earth—absorb lipids from the exoskeleton, causing dehydration. Aerosol foggers disperse fine droplets into hard‑to‑reach cracks but often leave untreated pockets.

Effective chemical control follows a systematic protocol:

Inspect all rooms, documenting infestation levels and refuge sites.
Select products with proven residual activity against bedbugs, considering local resistance patterns.
Apply liquids to cracks, crevices, and fabric folds, ensuring saturation without overspray.
Dust porous materials and voids with desiccant powders, using a low‑dust applicator to avoid airborne exposure.
Repeat applications after 7–10 days to intercept newly hatched nymphs that escaped the initial dose.

Safety considerations include wearing protective gloves and masks, ventilating the area during and after treatment, and removing or sealing food, dishes, and personal items. Overreliance on a single insecticide class accelerates resistance; rotating chemistries or combining residual sprays with desiccants mitigates this risk. Professional treatment typically achieves higher coverage than DIY kits, but thorough preparation—decluttering, laundering fabrics at high temperature, and sealing cracks—enhances chemical efficacy and supports long‑term elimination.

Heat Treatments

Heat treatment relies on raising interior temperatures to levels that kill all life stages of the bedbug. Research shows that exposure to 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 90 minutes eliminates eggs, nymphs, and adults. The process involves calibrated equipment—industrial heaters, fans, and temperature monitors—to maintain uniform heat throughout the space.

Effective heat treatment requires thorough preparation. Items that cannot withstand high temperatures, such as heat‑sensitive electronics or certain plastics, must be removed or protected. All clutter, especially fabric piles and upholstered furniture, should be cleared to allow air circulation. Sealing cracks and gaps prevents heat loss and ensures the target temperature is reached in hidden areas.

Key factors influencing success include:

Temperature accuracy – continuous monitoring prevents under‑heating, which allows survivors, and over‑heating, which can damage belongings.
Exposure time – sustained heat above the lethal threshold is critical; brief spikes are insufficient.
Professional execution – certified technicians possess calibrated devices and expertise in mapping heat flow, reducing the risk of missed zones.

Limitations of heat treatment stem from its reliance on power supply and building insulation. Large apartments may require multiple heating cycles to achieve consistent temperatures. Poorly insulated walls or open windows can cause temperature drop, compromising efficacy. Additionally, heat treatment does not address re‑infestation from external sources; sealing entry points and ongoing monitoring remain necessary.

Safety considerations include monitoring humidity to avoid condensation damage, wearing protective gear during setup, and evacuating occupants during the heating phase. Post‑treatment verification involves using heat‑sensitive detection tools—thermal cameras or temperature‑loggers—to confirm that all zones reached lethal levels.

Cost varies by region and property size, typically ranging from $1,500 to $4,000 for a full‑apartment service. While upfront expense exceeds chemical alternatives, heat treatment offers a non‑chemical, residue‑free solution that, when executed correctly, provides long‑term eradication without reliance on pesticides.

Cryonite Treatments

Cryonite treatment uses carbon dioxide snow to freeze bed‑bug insects and their eggs at temperatures below –78 °C. The frozen particles become brittle and shatter, causing immediate mortality without chemical residues.

The process typically follows these steps:

Identify all infested zones, including cracks, voids, and upholstered furniture.
Seal the area to prevent CO₂ drift and protect non‑target items.
Apply Cryonite snow using a handheld nozzle, directing the spray for thorough coverage.
Allow a short dwell time (approximately 10 seconds) for the cold to penetrate the exoskeleton.
Remove debris and vacuum the treated space to extract dead insects.

Effectiveness hinges on precise application. Studies show mortality rates exceeding 95 % when the spray reaches all hiding spots. Cryonite does not leave toxic residues, making it safe for occupants and pets after ventilation.

Limitations include:

Inability to reach deep within solid walls or sealed furniture without disassembly.
Requirement for trained technicians to avoid damage to heat‑sensitive materials.
Need for follow‑up measures, such as mattress encasements and regular inspections, to address any survivors or re‑infestations.

When integrated into a comprehensive pest‑management plan—combining heat treatment, encasements, and diligent sanitation—Cryonite can contribute significantly to the long‑term eradication of bedbugs from an apartment.

Follow-Up and Prevention Plans

After an initial eradication effort, a systematic follow‑up schedule is essential to confirm that the infestation has been fully resolved and to deter re‑infestation.

First inspection should occur within 7–10 days of treatment completion. Inspect all seams, mattress tags, upholstered furniture, and cracks in baseboards for live insects, exuviae, or fecal spots. Document findings with photographs and a written log.

A second inspection is recommended at the 30‑day mark, focusing on areas that were treated indirectly, such as adjacent rooms and common walls. If any evidence of activity appears, repeat targeted chemical or heat treatment promptly.

Long‑term monitoring involves monthly visual checks for at least six months, then quarterly inspections for the next year. Use passive detection devices, such as interceptors placed under each leg of the bed and furniture, to capture wandering insects. Replace or empty interceptors weekly and record catches.

Preventive measures should be integrated into daily routines:

Encase mattresses and box springs in certified, zippered encasements; replace encasements annually.
Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places; keep floor surfaces clear.
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery weekly; immediately discard vacuum bags or empty canisters into sealed plastic bags.
Wash bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Seal cracks, crevices, and gaps in walls, baseboards, and furniture with caulk or expandable foam.
Limit the introduction of second‑hand furniture; inspect any new items before placement.
Maintain a consistent indoor temperature; avoid prolonged low‑temperature environments that favor bedbug survival.

If a re‑infestation is detected at any stage, initiate a rapid response: isolate the affected area, apply a certified residual insecticide, and repeat the monitoring protocol. Consistent documentation of all actions, observations, and outcomes creates a traceable record that facilitates adjustments to the prevention plan and supports any necessary professional intervention.

Complementary DIY Measures

Preparing Your Home for Treatment

To maximize the effectiveness of a bed‑bug eradication program, the residence must be ready for professional intervention. Begin by removing all items that can be safely relocated to an unaffected area. Pack clothing, bedding, and curtains in sealed plastic bags, then launder at the highest temperature the fabric tolerates for at least 30 minutes. Dry on a hot setting for a minimum of 20 minutes.

Next, reduce clutter that provides hiding places. Discard or store in sealed containers any cardboard boxes, magazines, or piles of clothing. Vacuum every surface, paying special attention to seams, folds, and crevices. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container.

Inspect walls, baseboards, and furniture for cracks or gaps. Seal openings with caulk or expandable foam to limit migration routes. For upholstered furniture that cannot be moved, steam‑treat all seams and cushions using a device that reaches at least 130 °C for several minutes.

Prepare the treatment area by:

Removing all personal items from the floor and bed frames.
Covering non‑removable furniture with disposable plastic sheeting.
Turning off heating, ventilation, and air‑conditioning systems to prevent dispersal of insects.
Providing the pest‑control professional with a detailed map of infested zones, including bedroom, living room, and storage spaces.

Finally, coordinate the scheduled appointment. Ensure that occupants vacate the premises for the duration specified by the treatment protocol, and arrange for safe storage of pets and valuables. A thoroughly prepared environment reduces retreat sites, limits re‑infestation, and supports a lasting resolution.

Non-Chemical Approaches

Non‑chemical strategies can achieve lasting bedbug control when applied systematically. Effective measures focus on heat, physical removal, isolation, and environmental manipulation.

Heat treatment: Raising interior temperatures to 45‑50 °C (113‑122 °F) for several hours kills all life stages. Professional equipment ensures uniform distribution; portable heaters can supplement in smaller spaces.
Steam application: Direct steam at 100 °C (212 °F) penetrates seams, cracks, and fabric folds. Immediate exposure eliminates insects and eggs without chemicals.
Vacuuming: High‑efficiency vacuums extract bugs and debris from mattresses, furniture, and floor coverings. Empty bags or canisters outdoors after each session to prevent re‑infestation.
Mattress and box‑spring encasements: Certified zippered covers trap existing insects and block new entry. Maintain sealed condition for at least one year to cover the full life cycle.
Diatomaceous earth: Fine silica particles adhere to exoskeletons, causing desiccation. Apply thin layers in voids, under furniture, and along baseboards; reapply after cleaning.
Freezing: Exposing infested items to –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days eliminates pests. Use commercial freezers or portable units for small objects.
Decluttering and sanitation: Removing unnecessary items reduces hiding places and simplifies treatment. Regular laundering of bedding at high temperatures removes residual populations.
Structural sealing: Caulk cracks, repair torn screens, and install door sweeps to eliminate pathways between rooms and adjoining units.

Combining several of these tactics creates a multi‑layered defense that can permanently eradicate bedbugs without reliance on pesticides. Continuous monitoring with interceptors and periodic inspections validates success and prevents resurgence.

Vacuuming and Steaming

Vacuuming removes adult bedbugs, nymphs, and eggs from surfaces that are accessible, such as mattress seams, furniture crevices, baseboards, and carpet edges. A high‑efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter prevents the insects from escaping the machine. Operate the hose slowly, overlapping each pass, and empty the canister into a sealed bag after each session to avoid re‑infestation. Repeat the process weekly for at least four weeks, because newly hatched nymphs may emerge after the initial pass.

Steaming delivers temperatures of 120 °F (49 °C) or higher, which are lethal to all life stages of the pest. Direct the steam nozzle into seams, folds, and hidden cavities where vacuuming cannot reach. Hold the steam stream for at least 10 seconds on each spot to ensure heat penetration. Allow treated areas to dry completely before re‑occupying them, and repeat the treatment after any suspected re‑emergence.

Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; discard the bag in an outdoor trash container.
Apply a commercial steamer with adjustable temperature; verify the device reaches ≥120 °F.
Target mattress tags, box‑spring seams, upholstered furniture, and wall voids.
Combine vacuuming and steaming with chemical treatments or encasements for comprehensive control.

Laundry and Encasing

Laundry and encasing form essential elements of a thorough strategy to eradicate bedbugs from a residence. Proper handling of fabrics removes insects and eggs that hide in clothing, bedding, and curtains, while sealed covers isolate pests within mattresses and box springs.

Effective laundering requires:

water temperature of at least 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes;
high‑heat dryer cycle of 130 °F (54 °C) or higher for 30 minutes;
immediate transfer to a sealed bag after washing to prevent re‑infestation;
disposal of items that cannot withstand heat, or treatment with a professional heat chamber.

Encasement specifications include:

zippered, tear‑resistant fabric that encloses the entire mattress and box spring;
seams that lock with a double‑zip system to eliminate entry points;
inspection of the seal weekly for breaches or damage;
replacement after five years or when integrity is compromised.

Combining these measures with targeted insecticide applications, regular inspections, and clutter reduction creates a multi‑layered defense that can sustain a bedbug‑free environment over the long term.

Monitoring for Re-infestation

Effective control of bedbugs hinges on continuous vigilance after treatment. Once an eradication program concludes, the apartment remains vulnerable to new introductions or surviving insects that escaped detection. Monitoring provides the data needed to confirm that the environment stays pest‑free and to intervene before a minor resurgence becomes a full‑scale problem.

A systematic monitoring plan should include the following components:

Passive traps: Place interceptors under each leg of furniture and on bed frames. Check them weekly for live insects or shed skins.
Active inspections: Conduct visual examinations of seams, mattress tags, and cracks in walls or baseboards at least once a month for the first six months, then quarterly.
Resident reporting: Instruct occupants to report any sightings, bites, or unusual stains immediately. Provide a simple log sheet or digital form for documentation.
Environmental sampling: Use sticky pads or glue boards in concealed areas (e.g., behind appliances) to detect low‑level activity that may evade visual checks.
Data review: Record trap counts and inspection findings in a centralized spreadsheet. Analyze trends to identify hotspots or seasonal patterns.

If any monitoring tool yields a positive result, initiate a targeted follow‑up treatment promptly. Early action prevents the population from reaching reproductive capacity, thereby preserving the long‑term success of the original eradication effort. Continuous monitoring, combined with rapid response, is the most reliable strategy to sustain a bedbug‑free living space.

Long-Term Prevention and Maintenance

Identifying and Sealing Entry Points

Bedbugs gain access through cracks, gaps, and openings that connect rooms, walls, and utility pathways. Detecting these vulnerabilities is essential for long‑term control.

Begin by inspecting all potential routes:

Baseboards and crown molding for split seams or missing sections.
Wall joints, especially where drywall meets plaster or where cabinets are installed.
Electrical outlets, switch plates, and conduit openings; remove cover plates to view the interior.
Plumbing penetrations, including pipe sleeves and faucet holes.
Ventilation ducts, air‑conditioner grills, and exhaust fans; check for loose flanges.
Door and window frames; look for weather‑stripping gaps or warped panels.
Flooring transitions, such as gaps under rugs, tile grout cracks, and loose floorboards.

Seal identified openings with appropriate materials:

Use high‑quality silicone or polyurethane caulk for narrow cracks and seams.
Apply expanding foam for larger voids, trimming excess after cure.
Install metal mesh or steel wool behind caulk in gaps larger than ¼ inch to prevent re‑infestation.
Replace damaged outlet or switch plates with sealed, tamper‑resistant models.
Fit pipe sleeves with airtight collars and seal edges with caulk.
Attach weather‑stripping or door sweeps to eliminate space under doors and windows.

After sealing, re‑examine the treated areas weekly for a month to confirm that no new entry points have emerged. Consistent monitoring, combined with proper sealing, reduces the likelihood of reinvasion and supports permanent eradication of bedbugs in the residence.

Regular Inspections and Awareness

Regular inspections create the first line of defense against re‑infestation. Schedule visual checks at least once a month, focusing on seams, mattress tags, and hidden cracks. Early detection limits population growth and reduces the need for extensive chemical treatments.

Key indicators of activity include:

Small, rust‑colored spots on fabric or walls
Tiny, oval eggs attached to seams or wallpaper
Live insects or shed skins in crevices
Unexplained, itchy bites on occupants

Document each finding with photographs and dates. Maintain a log that records inspected areas, observed signs, and any remedial actions taken. This record supports timely decision‑making and provides evidence for landlords or pest‑control professionals.

Awareness extends beyond personal observation. Educate all residents about proper laundering practices, the risks of bringing infested furniture into the unit, and the importance of reporting suspected sightings immediately. A well‑informed household reduces the chances of unnoticed spread and facilitates coordinated response.

Travel Precautions

Travelers who bring personal items into a residence must avoid re‑introducing bedbugs if they aim for lasting control.

Examine hotel or rental beds, furniture, and seams for live insects or shed skins before unpacking.
Store clothing and luggage in sealed plastic bags or hard‑sided containers while away from the sleeping area.
Use luggage racks that keep suitcases off the floor and away from upholstered surfaces.
Avoid placing personal belongings on upholstered chairs, sofas, or mattresses.

Upon returning home, follow a strict decontamination routine.

Transfer all garments directly into a washing machine; use hot water (≥ 60 °C) and high‑heat drying for at least 30 minutes.
Vacuum suitcases, backpacks, and accessories; empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it.
Wipe hard surfaces of luggage with an alcohol‑based solution or a diluted bleach mixture.
Isolate any items that cannot be laundered by storing them in a freezer (−18 °C) for a minimum of 72 hours.

Consistent application of these precautions reduces the probability of new infestations, thereby supporting permanent eradication efforts in the apartment.