Immediate Actions After a Bedbug Bite
Identifying the Bite
Appearance of Bedbug Bites
Bedbug bites typically appear as small, red, raised spots that may develop a halo of swelling around a central puncture. The lesions are often grouped in a linear or clustered arrangement, reflecting the insect’s feeding pattern. Individual marks range from 2 mm to 5 mm in diameter and may become more pronounced after several hours.
Common visual cues include:
- Itchy sensation that intensifies within 24 hours
- Slightly raised edges with a central dark dot where the mouthparts penetrated
- Alignment of three to five bites in a row, known as a “breakfast‑n‑lunch” pattern
- Preference for exposed skin such as the face, neck, arms, and hands
The reaction can vary with the person’s sensitivity; some may exhibit only faint redness, while others develop larger, inflamed welts that persist for days. Recognizing these characteristics helps differentiate bedbug bites from other arthropod marks and guides appropriate care.
Common Bite Locations
Bedbug bites most frequently occur on areas of skin that are uncovered while you sleep. Typical locations include:
- Arms and forearms
- Hands, especially the backs of the hands
- Neck and shoulders
- Face, particularly around the eyes and cheeks
- Legs, calves, and ankles
- Feet, especially the tops of the feet
These sites are targeted because they are exposed to the insect’s nocturnal feeding activity. Identifying the usual bite zones helps distinguish bedbug reactions from other insect bites and supports prompt treatment.
Distinguishing from Other Insect Bites
Bedbug bites often resemble those of other arthropods, making accurate identification crucial for appropriate treatment and pest control. Recognizing specific patterns, timing, and accompanying signs helps separate them from mosquito, flea, or spider bites.
- Location: Bites appear in clusters of two to three punctures, usually on exposed skin such as the face, neck, arms, and hands. Mosquito bites are typically isolated and scattered across larger body areas. Flea bites concentrate on the lower legs and ankles, while spider bites are solitary and may occur anywhere.
- Arrangement: Bedbug marks form linear or zig‑zag rows, reflecting the insect’s feeding habit of moving along the skin. Mosquito and flea bites lack this orderly arrangement.
- Timing: Reactions emerge within a few hours after exposure and may intensify overnight. Mosquito bites often produce immediate itching; flea bites can develop more slowly, and spider bites may be delayed but accompanied by necrotic tissue.
- Swelling and redness: Bedbug lesions are flat, raised, and reddened, with a central puncture point. Mosquito bites tend to be raised papules with a prominent central welt. Flea bites present as small, inflamed papules surrounded by a halo of redness.
- Associated evidence: Presence of live insects, shed exoskeletons, or dark spotting (fecal stains) on bedding indicates bedbugs. Mosquitoes leave no such residues; fleas may be detected on pets or in carpet fibers.
Confirming a bedbug bite involves inspecting sleeping areas for the insects themselves, their eggs, or characteristic fecal spots. If the pattern matches the criteria above and evidence of infestation is found, pursue targeted eradication and medical care. If uncertainty remains, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis.
First Aid for Bedbug Bites
Cleaning the Affected Area
When a bedbug bite appears, immediate cleansing reduces irritation and lowers infection risk.
- Rinse the site with lukewarm water for 30–60 seconds.
- Apply a mild, fragrance‑free soap; lather gently, then rinse thoroughly.
- Pat the skin dry with a clean towel; avoid rubbing.
- Disinfect using a 70 % isopropyl alcohol pad or an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine.
- Allow the area to air‑dry before covering with a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing if needed.
Regular cleaning of the bite prevents bacterial colonization and eases itching. If redness spreads or pain intensifies, seek medical evaluation.
Reducing Itching and Swelling
Apply a cold compress to the bite within the first few minutes. The temperature reduction constricts blood vessels, limiting fluid accumulation and dampening the itch sensation. Use a clean cloth soaked in cold water or an ice pack wrapped in a towel; limit exposure to 10‑15 minutes to avoid skin damage.
Use over‑the‑counter topical agents to further control inflammation. Recommended options include:
- Hydrocortisone cream (1 %) – apply thinly to the affected area two to three times daily.
- Calamine lotion – spread lightly, allowing it to dry before reapplication.
- Antihistamine ointment containing diphenhydramine – apply once every 6 hours if itching persists.
Consider oral antihistamines for systemic relief when multiple bites are present or itching is severe. Non‑sedating formulations such as cetirizine 10 mg or loratadine 10 mg can be taken once daily. If drowsiness is not an issue, diphenhydramine 25‑50 mg may be used at bedtime.
Maintain skin hygiene to prevent secondary infection. Wash the bite gently with mild soap and water, pat dry, and keep the area uncovered to promote airflow. Avoid scratching; use a clean fingernail or a disposable cotton swab to remove any crusted material without breaking the skin.
Seek professional medical evaluation if any of the following occur: swelling expands rapidly, pain intensifies, signs of infection appear (redness, warmth, pus), or allergic reactions develop (hives, difficulty breathing). Prompt assessment ensures appropriate treatment and reduces the risk of complications.
Over-the-Counter Remedies
Bedbug bites cause itching, swelling, and occasional pain. Over‑the‑counter products can reduce these symptoms without a prescription.
Antihistamine tablets (e.g., diphenhydramine, cetirizine) block histamine release, decreasing itch and redness. Follow the label dosage; avoid exceeding the maximum daily amount, especially in children.
Topical corticosteroid creams (1 % hydrocortisone) calm inflammation. Apply a thin layer to the bite area two to three times daily for up to seven days. Do not use on broken skin or for longer than recommended.
Calamine lotion provides a cooling effect that soothes irritation. Shake well, then dab onto the bite with a clean cotton pad. Reapply several times a day until relief.
Oral analgesics such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Observe the recommended dose based on age and weight; avoid concurrent use with other NSAIDs.
Topical anesthetic gels containing lidocaine (2–5 %) numb the area temporarily. Apply a small amount once, waiting at least 15 minutes before reapplication if necessary.
When using any product, monitor for signs of allergic reaction (rash, difficulty breathing) and discontinue immediately if they appear. If symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, seek medical evaluation.
Home Remedies
If a bed‑bug bite appears, clean the area promptly with mild soap and lukewarm water. Pat dry and avoid scratching to reduce irritation and secondary infection.
Home‑based treatments can alleviate itching and swelling:
- Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes, repeat every hour as needed.
- Dab a thin layer of 1 % hydrocortisone cream; limit use to three days.
- Use an over‑the‑counter antihistamine tablet (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg) to control histamine response; follow package dosage.
- Spread a small amount of pure aloe vera gel for its soothing and anti‑inflammatory properties.
- Mix equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste; apply to the bite for 20 minutes, then rinse.
Monitor the bite for signs of infection—redness spreading, pus, or fever. Seek professional medical attention if any of these symptoms develop or if the reaction worsens despite home care.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Signs of Allergic Reaction
After a bedbug bite, watch for an allergic response. Immediate symptoms may include:
- Redness spreading beyond the bite site
- Swelling that enlarges quickly
- Hives or raised welts on surrounding skin
- Intense itching that does not subside with antihistamines
- Tingling or burning sensation
Later signs can develop within hours to days:
- Warmth and tenderness around the bite
- Fever exceeding 100.4 °F (38 °C)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, faintness, or difficulty breathing, indicating a possible systemic reaction
If any of these indicators appear, seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention reduces the risk of complications and ensures appropriate treatment.
Signs of Infection
A bedbug bite that becomes infected typically shows distinct clinical features. Recognize these changes promptly to prevent complications.
- Increasing redness that spreads beyond the initial puncture site
- Swelling that enlarges or feels warm to the touch
- Persistent pain or throbbing sensation
- Pus or clear fluid draining from the wound
- Fever, chills, or general malaise
- Red streaks extending from the bite toward the heart (lymphangitis)
If any of these signs appear, consult a healthcare professional without delay. Early intervention reduces the risk of severe tissue damage and systemic infection.
Persistent Symptoms
Bedbug bites can produce skin reactions that linger beyond the initial redness. Persistent itching, swelling that does not subside within several days, and the appearance of new lesions at the bite site are common indicators that the reaction is ongoing. In some cases, the skin may develop a crusted or ulcerated area, suggesting secondary bacterial infection. Rarely, individuals experience systemic symptoms such as fever, headache, or malaise, which signal a more serious response.
Medical evaluation is warranted when any of the following occur:
- Itching or pain that persists for more than one week without improvement.
- Increasing redness, warmth, or pus formation around the bite.
- Rapid spreading of the rash beyond the original bite locations.
- Signs of an allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
- Fever or other systemic complaints accompanying the skin lesions.
Initial self‑care measures aim to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Gently wash the affected area with mild soap and water, then apply a cold compress to lessen swelling. Over‑the‑counter antihistamines can control itching, while a low‑potency corticosteroid cream may reduce inflammatory response. If a bacterial infection is suspected, a healthcare professional may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics. Continuous monitoring of the lesions is essential; any deterioration should prompt a follow‑up visit to verify diagnosis and adjust treatment.
Preventing Further Bites and Eradicating Bedbugs
Inspecting Your Environment
Checking Your Bed
After noticing a bite, examine the sleeping surface immediately. A thorough inspection can confirm the presence of bed bugs and prevent further exposure.
Start by removing all bedding. Place sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in a sealed bag for laundering at the highest safe temperature. While the linens are being processed, focus on the mattress and box spring.
- Use a bright flashlight to illuminate seams, folds, and tufts.
- Look for live insects, which appear as small, reddish‑brown, oval bodies about the size of an apple seed.
- Identify dark, rust‑colored spots, which are fecal stains left by feeding.
- Search for tiny, white, oval eggs attached to fabric or wood.
- Inspect the headboard, bed frame, and any nearby furniture, paying special attention to cracks and joints.
If any evidence is found, isolate the bed by covering the mattress and box spring with a zippered encasement designed for pest control. Keep the encasement on for at least a year, checking regularly for new activity.
When no signs appear, still treat the area as a precaution. Vacuum the mattress surface and surrounding floor, then discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container. Repeat the inspection after a week, as bed bugs may be in hidden stages.
Examining Furniture and Cracks
After a bite, confirming the presence of bedbugs requires a thorough visual inspection of the sleeping area and surrounding furnishings. Focus on the following components:
- Mattress and box‑spring seams, tufts, and tags; pull back fabric to reveal any live insects, shed skins, or dark‑red spots.
- Bed frame, headboard, and footboard joints; separate wooden or metal pieces to check crevices.
- Nightstands, dressers, and upholstered chairs; examine cushion seams, under‑seat fabric, and any removable panels.
- Wall baseboards, floor‑board gaps, and cracks in plaster; use a flashlight to illuminate hidden spaces where bugs may hide.
- Electrical outlet covers and wiring channels; remove covers when safe to inspect for tiny insects or eggs.
Document findings with photographs or notes. If any evidence is discovered, isolate the affected furniture, cease use until treatment, and contact a professional pest‑management service for targeted eradication. If no evidence is found, continue monitoring daily for new bites or signs, and repeat the inspection routine every few days.
Identifying Bedbug Signs
Bedbugs leave distinct clues that can confirm an infestation before the bites become severe.
Visible insects measure 4–5 mm, reddish‑brown, and hide in seams, mattress tags, and cracks. After feeding, their bodies swell and turn a darker hue.
Molted skins, known as exuviae, appear as translucent, hollow shells near hiding spots.
Fecal spots are dark, pepper‑like stains on bedding, walls, or furniture; they may smear when damp.
A subtle, sweet, musty odor can develop in heavily infested areas.
Bite patterns often consist of small, red, itchy welts arranged in a line or cluster, typically on exposed skin such as arms, shoulders, or neck.
Key indicators to inspect:
- Live bugs or dead bodies in seams, folds, and crevices
- Shed skins or empty shells near the same locations
- Dark specks of fecal matter on sheets, mattress edges, or headboards
- Unusual sweet, musty smell in the bedroom
- Linear or clustered bite marks on exposed skin
Confirming these signs enables prompt treatment and prevents further discomfort.
Containing the Infestation
Isolating Infested Items
After a bedbug bite, the first priority is to stop further exposure by separating any contaminated belongings from the rest of your household.
Place all suspect items in sealed plastic bags or airtight containers. Use heavy‑duty zip‑lock bags for clothing, linens, and fabric accessories. Label each bag with the date of collection to track isolation periods.
Store the sealed packages in a freezer set to –20 °C (–4 °F) for at least four days. This temperature kills all life stages of the insect. If a freezer is unavailable, use a dryer on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes, ensuring the load is completely dry before removal.
For non‑washable objects—such as books, electronics, or upholstered furniture—encase them in impermeable plastic sheeting. Keep the enclosure closed for a minimum of three months, a period exceeding the bedbug’s life cycle, to guarantee any hidden bugs exhaust their food source and die.
Dispose of the outer packaging only after the isolation period ends and a visual inspection confirms the absence of insects. Retain the sealed bags for an additional week before discarding, providing a safety margin against accidental release.
Washing and Drying Affected Linens
When bedbugs have contacted bedding, immediate laundering prevents further bites and reduces infestation risk.
First, remove all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and any washable fabrics from the affected area. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to avoid spreading insects during transport.
Next, launder the items using the hottest cycle your fabrics tolerate. Set the water temperature to at least 60 °C (140 °F) and select a long wash program. Add a detergent that contains enzymes for thorough cleaning; a small amount of bleach may be used on white or color‑fast items for added disinfection.
After washing, transfer the linens directly to a dryer. Use the highest heat setting available and run the dryer for a minimum of 30 minutes. High heat kills all life stages of bedbugs, including eggs that may survive the wash.
For items that cannot be machine‑washed or dried, follow these alternatives:
- Seal in a heavy‑duty plastic bag and leave in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least 72 hours.
- For delicate fabrics, consider professional dry‑cleaning with a pest‑control certified service.
Finally, clean the washing machine drum with hot water and a disinfectant before the next load. Inspect the dryer lint trap and clean it thoroughly to remove any trapped insects. Regularly repeat the washing and drying process for a week to ensure no survivors remain.
Vacuuming and Cleaning Thoroughly
When a bedbug bite is discovered, immediate sanitation reduces the chance of additional contact. Vacuum every mattress, box spring, bed frame, and surrounding furniture. Use a hose attachment to reach seams, folds, and crevices where insects hide. After vacuuming, seal the bag or container and discard it outside the home to prevent re‑infestation.
Follow these actions for comprehensive cleaning:
- Detach and launder all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (≥ 130 °F) for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat.
- Wipe upholstered surfaces, nightstands, and baseboards with a solution of mild detergent and water; rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Spray a certified insecticide or steam‑treat identified hideouts, adhering to product instructions and safety guidelines.
- Replace vacuum filters with new ones or clean them according to manufacturer directions to avoid spreading trapped insects.
Consistent repetition of vacuuming and thorough washing every few days interrupts the life cycle and minimizes further bites.
Professional Pest Control
When to Call an Exterminator
If you discover bites that match the pattern of bedbugs, begin by inspecting the sleeping area for live insects, shed skins, or small dark spots (fecal stains). When these indicators appear, professional intervention becomes necessary.
- Live bugs or eggs spotted on mattress seams, headboards, or furniture.
- Multiple bites clustered in a line or zig‑zag pattern on exposed skin.
- Persistent bites despite thorough cleaning, vacuuming, and laundering.
- Reappearance of bites after initial self‑treatment or after moving belongings.
- Evidence of infestation in neighboring rooms, apartments, or shared housing.
The presence of any of these signs suggests that a private effort will likely fail to eradicate the colony. Professional exterminators possess equipment and chemicals approved for indoor use, and they can treat hidden cracks, baseboards, and wall voids that DIY methods miss.
Before contacting a service, gather the following information: type of dwelling, recent travel history, and any previous pest‑control attempts. Choose a licensed provider with documented experience in bedbug management, request a written inspection plan, and confirm the follow‑up schedule.
Promptly arranging a qualified exterminator reduces the risk of spreading the insects to other rooms or neighboring units and speeds recovery from the bites.
Preparing for Treatment
When a bed‑bug bite occurs, preparing for treatment reduces discomfort and limits complications.
Gather evidence before contacting a health professional. Photograph the lesion, note the date and time of appearance, and record any accompanying symptoms such as itching, swelling, or fever. Keep the images and notes accessible for the consultation.
Clean the affected area promptly. Use mild soap and lukewarm water; avoid harsh chemicals that could irritate the skin. Pat dry with a clean towel, then apply a thin layer of over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream or hydrocortisone to control itching. Do not scratch, as this can introduce infection.
If medical attention is required, bring the following to the appointment:
- Photographs and symptom log
- List of current medications and allergies
- Any topical products already applied
- A sample of the insect, if safely captured
During the visit, request confirmation of the diagnosis, discuss appropriate prescription options, and ask for instructions on wound care and follow‑up timing.
After treatment begins, monitor the bite daily. Note any changes in size, color, or pain level. If the reaction worsens or new lesions appear, contact the provider immediately for possible adjustment of therapy.
Post-Treatment Precautions
After the bite has been treated, wash the affected skin with soap and water, then apply a mild antiseptic. Replace any clothing, bedding, or towels that contacted the bite with freshly laundered items; use hot water (at least 60 °C) and a high‑heat dryer cycle.
Monitor the reaction for several days. If redness expands, swelling intensifies, or signs of infection appear—such as pus, fever, or increasing pain—seek medical evaluation promptly. Over‑the‑counter antihistamines may reduce itching, but do not rely on them if symptoms worsen.
Implement measures to avoid further exposure:
- Vacuum mattresses, furniture, and floor seams; discard the vacuum bag or empty canister into a sealed bag.
- Encase mattress and box‑spring in zippered protective covers rated for bed‑bug containment.
- Reduce clutter where insects can hide; store items in sealed containers.
- Inspect and treat adjacent rooms or apartments if infestation is suspected, using approved insecticides or professional pest‑control services.
Long-Term Management and Prevention
Monitoring for Reinfestation
If a bedbug bite occurs, begin systematic observation to determine whether the infestation persists. Regularly examine sleeping areas, focusing on seams, folds, and crevices of mattresses, box springs, and headboards. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to spot live insects, shed skins, or dark fecal spots.
- Inspect bedding and furniture daily for the first two weeks, then every three to five days for the next month.
- Place interceptor cups under each leg of the bed; check and replace them weekly.
- Deploy passive glue traps along baseboards and near potential harborages; record catches.
- Record any new bites, noting time, location, and severity; compare with initial symptoms.
Maintain a log of findings, including photographs of suspected evidence. If the log shows recurring activity after three weeks, contact a licensed pest‑control professional for a thorough evaluation and targeted treatment. Continuous monitoring for at least three months reduces the risk of unnoticed resurgence.
Protecting Your Home from Bedbugs
Using Mattress and Box Spring Encasements
If you discover a bedbug bite, immediate containment of the infestation is essential. One of the most effective containment measures is the use of mattress and box‑spring encasements.
A properly fitted encasement creates a sealed barrier that isolates any existing bugs and prevents newly hatched insects from reaching the sleeping surface. The fabric must be tightly woven, certified pest‑proof, and equipped with a zip that overlaps at least one inch when closed.
Key actions when employing encasements:
- Purchase separate encasements for the mattress and the box spring; each should be labeled as “bedbug‑proof.”
- Verify the size matches your bedding dimensions; a snug fit eliminates gaps.
- Install the encasement before washing any linens; this stops bugs from escaping during laundering.
- Seal the zip completely, pressing the overlapping flap to ensure no openings.
- Inspect the encasement weekly for tears, punctures, or loosened seams; repair or replace any damage promptly.
- Maintain the barrier for at least one year, as bedbugs can survive several months without feeding.
While encasements do not eradicate a population already present in the room, they significantly reduce the likelihood of additional bites by cutting off the primary feeding site. Combine this measure with regular vacuuming, steam treatment of furniture, and professional pest control for comprehensive protection.
Sealing Cracks and Crevices
Sealing cracks and crevices is essential for reducing exposure to bedbugs after a bite. Gaps in walls, flooring, baseboards, and furniture provide entry points and hiding places for the insects. By eliminating these openings, you limit the insects’ ability to migrate and re‑infest the living area, which helps prevent additional bites and secondary skin irritation.
- Inspect walls, floor joints, and trim for openings larger than 1 mm.
- Apply a high‑quality, flexible caulk or silicone sealant to each gap, smoothing the material to create a continuous barrier.
- Use expanding foam for larger voids behind baseboards, under appliances, and around plumbing fixtures; trim excess once cured.
- Seal seams around mattresses, box springs, and furniture legs with fabric‑compatible adhesive strips or tightly fitting covers.
- Re‑evaluate sealed areas after 24 hours to ensure adhesion remains intact and no new cracks have formed.
Regular maintenance of sealed areas prevents re‑establishment of bedbug pathways. Combine this practice with proper wound care—cleaning the bite site, applying antiseptic, and monitoring for infection—to manage the immediate reaction while addressing the underlying source of infestation.
Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are a practical measure for anyone who suspects a bedbug bite. Early detection reduces the need for extensive treatment and limits the spread of insects throughout living spaces.
Inspect sleeping areas weekly. Remove bedding and examine seams, folds, and tags for tiny, rust‑colored spots or live insects. Use a bright flashlight to illuminate cracks in the mattress, headboard, and box spring. Check nearby furniture, especially upholstered chairs and sofas, focusing on cushions, seams, and undercovers.
Inspect surrounding zones monthly. Look behind baseboards, under floorboards, and within wall voids. Pay attention to luggage racks, closets, and luggage itself after travel. Employ a lint roller on fabric surfaces to capture hidden insects for identification.
Maintain a simple record. Note the date, location, and findings of each inspection. Documentation helps track patterns and informs pest‑control professionals if an infestation escalates.
Replace or wash bedding at high temperatures after each inspection. Heat eliminates any eggs or nymphs that may be present, preventing further bites.
By integrating these routine checks into household maintenance, individuals can respond promptly to bite incidents and keep infestations under control.
Preventing Bedbugs While Traveling
Inspecting Accommodation
If a bedbug bite occurs, the first practical response is to verify whether the sleeping area harbors an infestation. Direct observation determines the need for professional treatment and guides subsequent actions.
- Examine mattress edges, seams, and tags for small, rust‑colored spots or tiny white eggs.
- Pull back bed linens and inspect the underside of sheets and pillowcases.
- Look under the headboard, within cracks of the frame, and behind nightstands for live insects or shed skins.
- Check upholstered furniture, especially cushions and seams, for similar signs.
- Use a flashlight to illuminate dark crevices in baseboards, wall outlets, and luggage racks.
- Place sticky tape or double‑sided traps in suspected zones to capture moving specimens for identification.
Document any findings with photographs and note the locations. Report the evidence to the property manager or host promptly, requesting remediation or relocation. Preserve the collected specimens, if possible, as proof for dispute resolution or insurance claims. After inspection, treat exposed skin with antiseptic, monitor for allergic reactions, and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
Protecting Luggage
When a bedbug bite occurs, the luggage that transported you may be the source of further exposure. Treat the bag as a potential vector and act promptly to contain any insects.
- Examine every compartment, seams, and pockets for live bugs, shed skins, or dark spots.
- Transfer clothing to a sealed, zip‑top bag before packing them back into the suitcase.
- Apply a high‑heat method: place the luggage in a dryer on the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes, or use a portable steam cleaner to penetrate folds and crevices.
- If heat is unavailable, use a certified insecticide spray labeled for bedbugs, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions and allowing proper drying time.
- Store the suitcase in a plastic container with a tight‑closing lid, or wrap it in a bedbug‑proof encasement for the duration of travel.
After treatment, inspect the bag again to confirm the absence of activity. Keep the luggage isolated from other items until you are certain it is free of pests. This systematic approach minimizes the risk of re‑infestation and protects both personal belongings and future environments.
Laundry Upon Return
After a bed‑bug bite, the most effective way to prevent further infestation is to treat all clothing, linens, and washable items before they re‑enter your living space.
- Separate contaminated garments from clean ones.
- Use the hottest water the fabric can tolerate; temperatures of 60 °C (140 °F) or higher kill bed‑bug eggs and adults.
- Add a normal detergent; a small amount of bleach may be used on whites for extra assurance.
- Dry items on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat eliminates any surviving insects.
- Store laundered items in sealed plastic bags until the room has been inspected and treated.
Non‑washable items such as shoes, backpacks, or delicate fabrics should be placed in a sealed bag and left in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for 72 hours, or alternatively exposed to professional heat treatment.
Inspect the washing machine drum and dryer lint trap for signs of insects before and after use. Clean both with a vacuum or a damp cloth to remove any stray bugs or eggs. Following these steps eliminates the risk of re‑introducing bed‑bugs into your home after a bite incident.