What should be done if bedbugs appear in an apartment, and how can they be eliminated?

Identifying Bed Bugs

Recognizing the Signs

«Physical Evidence»

Physical evidence of a bed‑bug problem includes live insects, shed skins, eggs, fecal spots, and small blood‑stained smears on bedding or furniture. These items provide the only reliable confirmation that an infestation exists and indicate its extent.

To locate and record evidence, follow a systematic inspection:

Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to examine seams, folds, and crevices of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and baseboards.
Place adhesive interceptors under each leg of the bed; check them after 24 hours for trapped bugs.
Deploy sticky traps near suspected hideouts; collect trapped specimens for identification.
Perform a tape‑lift on suspected sites, pressing clear adhesive tape onto surfaces, then examine the tape under a microscope.
Vacuum suspected areas, sealing the collection bag for later analysis.

Collected specimens should be preserved for professional assessment or legal documentation. Store each sample in a sealed, labeled container, noting the date, location, and type of evidence (e.g., adult, nymph, exuviae). Photograph every finding with a scale reference; retain digital files in a dated folder. This record enables pest‑control providers to select appropriate treatment modalities—chemical sprays, heat‑treatment units, or steam—and to verify eradication after intervention.

Monitoring physical evidence after treatment confirms success. Re‑inspect using the same methods, comparing new findings with the initial documentation. Absence of live insects, eggs, and fecal spots across all sampled sites indicates that the infestation has been eliminated.

«Bite Marks»

Bite marks provide the first visual cue that bedbugs have infested a residence. Typical lesions appear as small, red, raised spots, often grouped in a line or cluster and most frequently found on exposed skin such as the arms, neck, and face. Unlike mosquito bites, bedbug marks are usually painless at the moment of feeding and may become itchy several hours later.

Recognizing the pattern of bites helps distinguish bedbug activity from other pests. Bedbug lesions are often:

Multiple and aligned in a straight line or “breakfast‑lunch‑dinner” arrangement
Symmetrical on both sides of the body
Present on areas uncovered during sleep

When bite marks are observed, immediate steps should be taken to confirm infestation and prevent further feeding.

Inspect bedding, mattress seams, and headboards for live insects, shed skins, or dark spots (fecal stains).
Use a flashlight to examine cracks, baseboards, and furniture joints.
Capture suspected bugs in a sealed container for identification.
Wash all linens and clothing in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
Apply over‑the‑counter antihistamine or topical corticosteroid to relieve itching; consult a healthcare professional if reactions worsen.

Eradication requires a coordinated approach that targets both the insects and their hiding places. Professional pest‑control operators typically employ:

Heat treatment of rooms to raise temperatures above 50 °C for several hours, killing all life stages.
Approved insecticide sprays applied to seams, crevices, and furniture frames.
Encapsulation of mattresses and box springs with certified protective covers.

After treatment, continue monitoring for new bite marks and repeat inspections weekly for at least one month. Persistent absence of new lesions indicates successful elimination; reappearance signals the need for additional intervention.

«Odor Detection»

Odor detection provides a practical early‑warning tool for infestations in residential units. Bedbugs release a characteristic scent composed of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as isoprene and specific fatty‑acid derivatives. Sensitive electronic noses or trained canine units can identify these compounds at concentrations far below visible signs.

Detection protocols:

Deploy a calibrated VOC sensor in high‑risk zones (bed frames, mattress seams, cracks in walls).
Conduct readings during periods of low ambient airflow to prevent dilution.
Record baseline levels, then compare subsequent measurements to established threshold values (typically 10‑50 ppb for isoprene).
If thresholds are exceeded, initiate targeted inspection of the identified area.

After confirming presence, combine odor‑based localization with proven eradication measures:

Isolate affected furnishings, seal in airtight bags, and subject to high‑temperature treatment (≥ 50 °C for 30 minutes).
Apply residual insecticide sprays approved for indoor use, focusing on cracks and seams highlighted by odor mapping.
Follow up with a second round of odor monitoring after treatment to verify reduction below detection limits.

Integrating odor detection into a systematic response accelerates identification, limits spread, and enhances the effectiveness of chemical and thermal control methods.

Where to Look for Bed Bugs

«Common Hiding Spots»

Bedbugs tend to conceal themselves in locations that provide protection from light and disturbance while remaining close to a host’s skin. Recognizing these sites is essential for any effective eradication effort.

Typical hiding places include:

Seams, folds, and tufts of mattresses, box springs, and pillowcases.
Edges and cracks of headboards, bed frames, and nightstands.
Upholstered furniture cushions, seams, and under the fabric.
Baseboards, wall cracks, and behind wallpaper.
Electrical outlet covers, switch plates, and light fixtures.
Luggage, backpacks, and clothing stored in closets.
Curtain rods, drapery folds, and window blind mechanisms.
Toys, stuffed animals, and other soft items placed near sleeping areas.

These micro‑habitats protect insects from detection and allow rapid movement toward a sleeping person. Targeted inspection of each area, followed by appropriate treatment—heat, steam, or approved insecticides—reduces the population before it spreads to new locations.

«Less Obvious Locations»

Bedbugs rarely remain confined to the mattress surface; they exploit concealed sites that are difficult to inspect. Recognizing these less obvious locations is essential for effective eradication.

seams and folds of upholstered furniture
behind picture frames and wall hangings
inside electrical outlet covers and switch plates
within baseboard cracks and wall voids
under carpet edges and padding
in luggage compartments, suitcase seams, and travel bags
inside curtain rods, drapery folds, and blind mechanisms
between floorboards, especially in older parquet or laminate flooring
within mattress box springs, bed frames, and headboard joints
behind kitchen appliances, such as refrigerator drip pans and dishwasher gaskets

Targeted actions for each site include: removing and washing removable fabrics at 120 °F (49 °C) or higher; vacuuming cracks, crevices, and upholstery with a sealed bag and discarding the bag promptly; applying a licensed insecticide spray or dust to voids, outlet covers, and baseboards according to label directions; sealing entry points with caulk or expanding foam; steaming objects that can tolerate high temperatures; and inspecting luggage or travel gear before storage. Repeating these steps after 7–10 days addresses newly hatched nymphs that escaped the initial treatment. Consistent monitoring and thorough cleaning of the identified hidden areas prevent reinfestation.

Steps to Take Upon Discovery

Immediate Actions

«Containment Strategies»

When bedbugs are discovered in a dwelling, immediate containment prevents spread to adjacent rooms and neighboring units.

First, isolate the infested area. Seal doors and windows with plastic sheeting or tape to restrict insect movement. Remove or cover any vent openings that could serve as pathways.

Next, treat all personal items. Wash clothing, linens, and fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Place unwashable items in sealed bags for a minimum of two weeks to starve hidden insects.

Reduce clutter that offers hiding places. Discard cardboard boxes, stacks of paper, and other debris. Store remaining belongings in clear, airtight containers; label each container for quick identification.

Apply physical barriers. Install mattress and box‑spring encasements designed to trap bedbugs inside and prevent new infestations. Use interceptors under bed legs to capture insects attempting to climb.

Conduct thorough mechanical removal. Vacuum floors, cracks, and seams with a high‑efficiency filter, immediately emptying the canister into a sealed bag and disposing of it outside the building. Follow with steam treatment on upholstered furniture, curtains, and baseboards; steam must reach at least 100 °C for several seconds to achieve mortality.

Finally, document all actions. Record dates, locations, and methods used; share the log with property management or pest‑control professionals to coordinate further chemical or heat treatments. This systematic approach limits dispersal and creates a controlled environment for subsequent eradication efforts.

«Initial Cleaning Measures»

When bedbugs are detected in a dwelling, immediate cleaning actions are essential to limit spread and prepare for treatment.

Begin by stripping the infested area of all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics. Transfer each item to a sealed plastic bag, then launder on the hottest cycle the material can tolerate (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat destroys all life stages of the insect.

Next, clear the floor and surfaces of clutter that can hide insects. Store items that cannot be washed in airtight containers or wrap them in heavy‑duty plastic film. Reduce the number of objects that provide shelter, such as piles of clothing, books, or cardboard.

Vacuum thoroughly across the entire apartment, focusing on seams, mattress tufts, baseboards, and furniture crevices. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to prevent re‑aerosolisation of particles. After each pass, empty the canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container.

Apply steam to hard surfaces that can tolerate high temperatures. Steam at 100 °C for a minimum of 10 seconds penetrates fabric fibers and cracks, killing bedbugs and their eggs. Move the nozzle slowly to ensure adequate exposure.

Finally, mop hard floors with hot water and a detergent solution. Wipe all reachable furniture, window frames, and door jambs. Do not use chemical sprays at this stage; the goal is to remove organic residues that attract insects.

These steps create a clean environment that enhances the efficacy of subsequent professional or chemical interventions.

Professional Consultation

«When to Call an Exterminator»

If bedbug activity is confirmed by visual inspection—live insects, shed skins, or rust‑colored spots on bedding—professional intervention should be considered immediately. DIY measures often fail to reach hidden infestations, and delayed treatment allows populations to multiply, increasing the difficulty of eradication.

Call an exterminator when any of the following conditions apply:

Multiple sightings across several rooms or furniture pieces.
Evidence of infestation persists after at least two weeks of thorough cleaning, vacuuming, and laundering.
The building’s management or landlord requires a certified pest‑control report for insurance or lease compliance.
The infestation appears in a high‑density dwelling (e.g., multi‑unit building) where neighboring units may be affected.
You lack access to heat‑treatment equipment, specialized insecticides, or the expertise to apply them safely.

Engaging a licensed pest‑control professional ensures the use of approved chemicals, heat‑treatment protocols, and follow‑up inspections that meet regulatory standards and reduce the risk of re‑infestation.

«What to Ask a Professional»

When a bed‑bug infestation is discovered, professional assistance is often required to ensure complete eradication. Before hiring an exterminator, gather specific information to evaluate competence, methods, and costs.

What certifications or licenses does the technician hold for pest control in residential settings?
Which treatment options are available (chemical, heat, steam, or integrated approaches) and how are they selected for a given situation?
How will the treatment plan address all life stages of the insects, including eggs, nymphs, and adults?
What preparation is required from the tenant, and what items will be moved, covered, or removed?
How many visits are anticipated, what is the estimated duration of each visit, and what is the total timeline for clearance?
What guarantees or follow‑up inspections are included, and what is the policy if bed‑bugs reappear after treatment?
How are chemicals applied, what safety precautions are taken, and are there any health risks for occupants with allergies or pets?
What documentation will be provided, such as a detailed report of findings, treatment methods, and post‑treatment recommendations?
What are the total costs, including any additional fees for monitoring, disposal of infested items, or repeat treatments?

Requesting clear answers to these questions enables informed decision‑making and reduces the risk of incomplete control or unnecessary expenses.

Bed Bug Elimination Methods

Non-Chemical Approaches

«Heat Treatment»

When bedbugs are detected in a dwelling, immediate action is required to prevent spread. Heat treatment offers a chemical‑free method that eliminates insects at all life stages.

The technique relies on raising interior temperatures to levels that are lethal for bedbugs and their eggs. Sustaining a temperature of at least 118 °F (48 °C) for a minimum of 90 minutes ensures complete mortality. Uniform heat distribution throughout all rooms is essential; temperature variations can allow survivors to persist.

Preparation steps include:

Removing or sealing personal belongings that cannot withstand high heat.
Laundering clothing, bedding, and curtains on the hottest cycle.
Decluttering to facilitate air flow and sensor placement.
Covering electronics and items sensitive to heat with protective material.

During the operation, professional heaters are positioned to achieve the target temperature. Calibrated thermometers monitor ambient conditions in multiple locations, confirming that the required threshold is maintained without exceeding safe limits for structural components. After the exposure period, the space is ventilated to return to normal temperature.

Safety considerations demand that occupants vacate the premises for the entire treatment and that fire‑hazard precautions be observed. Electrical circuits must be inspected, and combustible materials should be kept away from heating equipment.

Heat treatment is highly effective against bedbugs, but it may not reach insects concealed within wall voids or deep insulation. In such cases, supplemental methods—such as targeted insecticide applications or encasements—are advisable.

For reliable results, engage a certified pest‑control professional experienced in thermal remediation. If a DIY approach is chosen, acquire industrial‑grade heaters, precise temperature sensors, and follow established protocols to avoid incomplete eradication or property damage.

«Cold Treatment»

Cold treatment exploits the temperature sensitivity of Cimex species. Exposure to sufficiently low temperatures can halt development, immobilize adults, and ultimately cause mortality. Research indicates that maintaining an environment at –17 °C (1 °F) or lower for a minimum of four days achieves a 100 % kill rate for all life stages, including eggs.

The process begins with thorough identification of infested items. Soft furnishings, mattresses, and clothing should be isolated and sealed in airtight bags to prevent re‑infestation during handling. Items that can tolerate low temperatures are placed in a commercial freezer or a portable refrigeration unit capable of reaching the required –17 °C threshold. Temperature sensors placed within the load verify that the target temperature is consistently achieved throughout the treatment period.

Key operational points:

Verify that the freezer’s internal temperature remains at or below –17 °C for the entire duration; fluctuations above this level reduce efficacy.
Ensure uniform cooling by arranging items with space between them; dense packing creates cold pockets that may protect hidden bugs.
Maintain the exposure time of at least 96 hours; shorter periods risk survival of resilient eggs.
After treatment, allow items to return to ambient temperature gradually to avoid condensation damage.

Cold treatment is most effective for portable objects that fit within a freezer. Structural infestations, such as cracks in walls or built‑in furniture, require alternative or complementary approaches—heat treatment, chemical applications, or integrated pest management protocols.

Limitations include the inability to treat large, immovable items on site and the risk of damaging heat‑sensitive materials. Combining cold treatment with thorough vacuuming, steam applications on surrounding surfaces, and professional monitoring enhances overall eradication success.

«Vacuuming and Steaming»

When bedbugs are discovered in a dwelling, immediate mechanical treatment reduces the population before chemical options are applied. A high‑efficiency vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter removes live insects, eggs, and shed skins from surfaces such as mattress seams, baseboards, and furniture crevices. Operate the vacuum slowly to ensure suction captures hidden bugs; repeat the process daily for at least one week, then weekly for a month to catch emerging hatchlings.

Steam treatment complements vacuuming by delivering lethal heat to locations the vacuum cannot reach. Use a commercial‑grade steamer that produces steam at 150 °F (65 °C) or higher. Apply the nozzle to:

Mattress tags and folds
Sofa cushions and upholstery seams
Curtain folds and drapery hems
Wall cracks and electrical outlet covers

Maintain contact for 10–15 seconds per spot; the heat penetrates up to 1 inch into fabric and destroys all life stages. Allow treated areas to dry completely before re‑occupying the space.

Both methods require proper disposal of collected debris. Seal vacuum bags or canisters in a plastic bag, remove them from the apartment, and discard in an outdoor trash container. After steaming, wipe surfaces with a disposable cloth, then place the cloth in a sealed bag for disposal. Consistent application of vacuuming and steaming, combined with regular inspection, significantly lowers infestation levels and prepares the environment for any additional control measures.

«Protective Covers and Encasements»

Protective covers and encasements are specially designed fabrics that surround mattresses, box springs, pillows, and upholstered furniture. They feature tightly woven fibers and zippered closures that prevent bedbugs from entering or exiting the protected item.

When applied correctly, these barriers trap any insects already present inside the bedding, depriving them of a food source and eventually causing death. Simultaneously, the barrier blocks newly arriving bugs from reaching the sleeping surface, reducing the risk of reinfestation.

Key criteria for selecting effective encasements include:

Certification as bedbug‑proof by a reputable testing organization.
Fabric density of at least 600 thread count or equivalent rating.
Seamless or taped seams to eliminate entry points.
Accurate sizing to cover the entire mattress, box spring, or pillow without gaps.

Installation process:

Strip the bed of all linens and inspect the mattress and box spring for live insects or eggs.
Place the encasement over the mattress, align seams, and pull the zipper fully closed, ensuring no overlap or opening remains.
Repeat the procedure for the box spring and pillows, using separate covers for each item.
Verify that the zippered edge lies flat against the surface to avoid creating pockets where bugs could hide.

Maintenance protocol:

Inspect the zipper and fabric weekly for signs of wear, tears, or insect activity.
Wash the encasement according to the manufacturer’s instructions every two weeks, using hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and a high‑heat dryer cycle.
Replace the cover after three years of use or immediately if damage is detected.

Protective covers should be used alongside complementary actions such as thorough vacuuming of the bedroom, targeted heat treatment of infested zones, and strategic placement of interceptor traps under furniture legs. Combined, these measures create a multi‑layered defense that significantly lowers the likelihood of a persistent bedbug problem.

Chemical Treatments

«Pesticides for Bed Bugs»

When bedbugs are discovered in a residence, immediate chemical treatment is often required to stop reproduction and spread. Effective pesticides fall into several categories, each with specific application methods and safety considerations.

Pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin, deltamethrin). Widely used for surface sprays and dusts. Effective against susceptible populations; resistance is common, so rotation with other classes is advisable.
Neonicotinoids (e.g., imidacloprid, acetamiprid). Applied as aerosols or liquid concentrates. Provide rapid knock‑down but may not eradicate eggs; usually combined with a residual agent.
Insect growth regulators (IGRs) (e.g., hydroprene, methoprene). Interfere with molting, preventing nymph development. Used as sprays or powders in cracks and crevices; best paired with a fast‑acting adulticide.
Silicone‑based desiccants (e.g., diatomaceous earth, silica gel). Coat insects and cause dehydration. Non‑chemical, low toxicity, suitable for hidden harborages; requires thorough coverage.
Spinosad (e.g., Spinosad®). Derived from bacterial fermentation, effective against both adults and early instars. Available as a spray concentrate; low mammalian toxicity.

Application guidelines:

Identify all infested zones – mattress seams, box springs, baseboards, furniture joints, and wall voids.
Vacuum thoroughly – remove live insects and eggs before chemical treatment.
Treat surfaces – apply a residual spray to exposed fabrics, wood, and plastic. Follow label‑specified dilution rates.
Dust hidden voids – use a fine‑grade silica gel or diatomaceous earth in cracks, electrical outlets, and wall cavities.
Repeat – schedule a second application 7–10 days after the first to target newly emerged nymphs.
Monitor – place passive interceptors under legs of beds and furniture to assess efficacy.

Safety measures:

Wear disposable gloves, goggles, and a certified respirator when applying aerosols or powders.
Remove or cover food, dishes, and personal items to prevent contamination.
Ensure adequate ventilation during and after treatment; air out the apartment for at least 30 minutes before re‑occupancy.
Follow local regulations regarding pesticide disposal and residue limits.

Combining chemical options with non‑chemical tactics—such as high‑temperature laundering, steam treatment, and encasement of mattresses—enhances overall success and reduces the risk of resistance development.

«Applying Insecticides Safely»

When bedbugs are detected in a dwelling, chemical treatment often becomes necessary. Selecting an insecticide approved for indoor residential use is the first step; products labeled for bedbug control contain either pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or desiccant dusts. Verify expiration dates and read the label for any restrictions on surface types or occupant groups.

Before application, remove or seal all food, dishes, and personal items. Ventilate the area by opening windows and using fans to direct airflow outward. Wear protective equipment—nitrile gloves, goggles, and a respirator rated for particulate matter—to prevent skin contact and inhalation.

Apply the pesticide according to the manufacturer’s instructions:

Measure the recommended dose precisely; do not exceed the stated amount.
Spray directly onto cracks, seams, and crevices where insects hide; avoid overspray on walls or furniture not targeted.
Allow the product to dry completely before re‑entering the space, typically 2–4 hours depending on formulation.
Keep children, pets, and vulnerable individuals out of the treated room for the full clearance period indicated on the label.

After treatment, clean any residue from surfaces that may have been inadvertently contacted. Conduct a follow‑up inspection after 7–10 days; repeat application only if live insects are still observed and the label permits multiple uses. Document the process, including product names, quantities, and dates, to support future pest‑management decisions.

«Integrated Pest Management (IPM)»

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a systematic approach that combines preventive measures, monitoring, and targeted interventions to control pest populations while minimizing health and environmental risks. When a bed‑bug infestation is detected in a dwelling, IPM provides a framework for effective, sustainable elimination.

The IPM process for a bed‑bug problem includes the following actions:

Conduct a thorough visual inspection of all rooms, focusing on seams, mattress tags, baseboards, and furniture crevices to confirm presence and estimate infestation level.
Identify species and life stages to select appropriate control tactics.
Implement preventive measures: reduce clutter, seal cracks, and wash linens at ≥ 60 °C to remove hidden insects and eggs.
Establish a monitoring system using interceptors or pitfall traps placed under bed legs to track activity and evaluate treatment efficacy.
Apply non‑chemical controls first: heat treatment (≥ 50 °C for several hours) or steam applied to infested surfaces, vacuuming with sealed disposal of bag contents, and encasement of mattresses and box springs.
If chemical intervention is required, use registered bed‑bug insecticides according to label directions, targeting only confirmed harborages to limit exposure.
Document all actions, dates, and observations; repeat inspections at two‑week intervals for at least three cycles to confirm eradication.

Successful IPM implementation relies on coordination between occupants and qualified pest‑management professionals. Professionals bring expertise in detection equipment, calibrated heat‑treatment devices, and regulated pesticide application, ensuring that each control measure aligns with the overall strategy and reduces the likelihood of resurgence. Continuous education of residents about early signs and preventive habits reinforces the long‑term effectiveness of the IPM program.

Preventing Future Infestations

Ongoing Vigilance

«Regular Inspections»

Regular inspections are essential for early detection of bedbug activity and for preventing a minor problem from becoming a full‑scale infestation.

Inspecting sleeping areas, upholstered furniture, and cracks or seams in walls and floors should become a routine habit. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to examine mattress seams, box‑spring folds, headboards, and the undersides of chairs. Look for live insects, shed skins, small dark spots (fecal stains), or tiny eggs.

A systematic schedule reduces the chance that an infestation goes unnoticed. Recommended frequencies are:

Weekly checks in high‑risk zones (bedrooms, guest rooms) during the first month after a suspected bite or after any treatment.
Bi‑weekly inspections for the following two months.
Monthly reviews for the remainder of the tenancy, or after any travel that may introduce pests.

Document each inspection. Record the date, locations examined, and any findings, then share the log with the property manager or a professional exterminator. Documentation creates a clear timeline, assists in assessing treatment efficacy, and provides evidence if legal action becomes necessary.

When signs of bedbugs are discovered, act immediately: isolate the affected area, wash bedding at ≥ 60 °C, vacuum thoroughly, and contact a licensed pest‑control service. Prompt reporting, backed by inspection records, enables swift intervention and minimizes the need for extensive chemical treatments.

Maintaining a disciplined inspection routine, combined with accurate reporting, forms the cornerstone of an effective response to bedbug presence in an apartment.

«Travel Precautions»

When staying away from home, inspect hotel or rental bedding before unpacking. Keep luggage closed and elevated, preferably on a luggage rack or a hard surface away from the mattress. Pack clothes in sealed plastic bags and wash them in hot water and high‑heat dryer cycles immediately upon return. Avoid placing personal items on upholstered furniture or carpeted floors; use a clean towel as a barrier if temporary storage is necessary.

If bedbugs are discovered in the residence, act promptly:

Isolate infested items by sealing them in airtight bags or containers.
Launder clothing, bedding, and curtains in water ≥ 60 °C, followed by a dryer cycle of at least 30 minutes on high heat.
Vacuum all surfaces, including seams, mattress edges, and floor cracks; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister outdoors.
Apply a certified residual insecticide to cracks, baseboards, and furniture frames, following label instructions.
Arrange professional heat treatment or fumigation for the entire unit if the infestation covers multiple rooms.
After treatment, repeat vacuuming and inspection weekly for at least four weeks to confirm eradication.

Home Maintenance

«Sealing Cracks and Crevices»

Sealing cracks and crevices blocks the pathways bedbugs use to travel between walls, floors, and furniture. Proper sealing reduces the chance of reinfestation after treatment.

Identify all potential entry points: gaps around baseboards, wall‑floor joints, electrical outlet frames, plumbing fixtures, and seams in wallpaper or paneling. Use a flashlight and a thin probe to locate hidden openings.

Select appropriate sealing materials. Silicone‑based caulk works well on smooth surfaces; acrylic latex caulk is suitable for porous walls. Expanding polyurethane foam fills larger voids, but excess should be trimmed once cured.

Apply sealant following these steps:

Clean the area with a mild detergent; remove dust and debris.
Dry the surface completely.
Cut the nozzle to the desired bead size.
Press the sealant into the crack, ensuring full penetration.
Smooth the bead with a gloved finger or a caulking tool to eliminate air pockets.
Allow the product to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before reinstalling baseboards or furniture.

Inspect the apartment regularly. Re‑apply sealant to any new gaps that appear after renovations or settling of the building.

By eliminating structural routes, sealing creates an environment where bedbugs cannot move freely, supporting chemical or heat treatments and preventing future outbreaks.

«Decluttering Your Space»

When bedbugs are discovered in a dwelling, immediate action is required to prevent spread and to enable effective treatment. Reducing excess items in the living area creates a clear environment for inspection, isolation, and eradication procedures.

Remove all items from the bed and surrounding furniture. Place each object on a clean surface for evaluation.
Separate belongings into three categories: keep, treat, discard. Items that can be laundered or heat‑treated belong to the “treat” group; those with visible infestation or unsuitable for cleaning belong to “discard.”
Pack keep items in sealed, transparent containers. Label containers to avoid accidental re‑introduction.
Dispose of discarded items in sealed trash bags, and arrange prompt removal by waste services.
Store treated items in plastic bags or containers that can be closed airtight until the infestation is resolved.

A decluttered space allows pest‑control professionals to apply insecticides, steam, or heat more uniformly. Fewer obstacles reduce the time needed for thorough coverage and limit hiding places where bugs can survive. Additionally, the removal of clutter simplifies the identification of infested zones, making follow‑up inspections more reliable.

After decluttering, implement standard elimination measures: wash all washable fabrics at temperatures above 60 °C, dry‑clean non‑washable items, apply approved insecticide sprays to cracks and crevices, and consider whole‑room heat treatment if the infestation is severe. Repeat inspections weekly for at least four weeks to confirm the absence of activity.

By systematically clearing the environment before treatment, the likelihood of successful eradication increases, and the duration of the control process shortens.