A bedbug was found, what to do? - briefly
If a bed bug is identified, immediately isolate the affected bedding and furniture, wash all textiles in hot water, and dry them on high heat. Follow up with a targeted chemical treatment or professional heat‑exposure service to eradicate the infestation.
A bedbug was found, what to do? - in detail
Finding a bedbug in your living space requires immediate, systematic action to prevent an infestation.
First, isolate the area where the insect was seen. Remove bedding, clothing, and fabrics from the spot and place them in sealed plastic bags. Wash the items in hot water (minimum 120 °F/49 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills all life stages of the pest.
Next, inspect the surrounding environment. Look for additional insects, shed skins, and dark spotting (fecal stains) on mattress seams, headboards, baseboards, and furniture crevices. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying glass to improve detection. Document any findings with photographs for later reference.
After confirming the presence of more than a single specimen, treat the affected surfaces. Apply a qualified insecticide labeled for bedbug control to mattress edges, box springs, and cracks in the frame. Follow label directions precisely, including safety precautions such as ventilation and protective gloves. For items that cannot be heat‑treated, consider professional steam cleaning at temperatures above 130 °F (54 °C) for a minimum of 20 seconds.
Enclose the mattress and box spring in certified encasements that zip securely. These barriers prevent bugs from entering or escaping and facilitate long‑term monitoring. Keep the encasements on for at least one year, checking weekly for signs of activity.
If the problem persists or spreads to other rooms, arrange for a professional pest‑management service. Certified technicians can perform comprehensive assessments, apply residual treatments, and offer follow‑up inspections.
Maintain vigilance after treatment. Reduce clutter, vacuum regularly (empty the canister outdoors), and seal cracks in walls and baseboards. Repeat inspections monthly for six months to ensure the population has been eradicated.