Bed bugs have bitten – what should you do at home? - briefly
Clean the bite sites with mild soap and apply an anti‑itch cream or antihistamine to ease irritation. Wash all bedding and clothing in hot water, vacuum the sleeping area thoroughly, and seal washed items in plastic bags to stop further spread.
Bed bugs have bitten – what should you do at home? - in detail
When you discover that you have been bitten by bed‑bugs, immediate care and systematic action are essential to reduce discomfort and prevent further infestation.
First, treat the skin. Clean each bite with mild soap and cool water to remove potential irritants. Apply an over‑the‑counter antihistamine or a topical corticosteroid to lessen itching and swelling. If the reaction worsens, seek medical advice promptly.
Second, isolate the source. Strip the bed of all linens, pillowcases, and blankets. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag and launder on the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate, followed by a high‑heat dryer for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a bag and stored for several months, as bed‑bugs cannot survive without a blood meal for that period.
Third, inspect the sleeping area. Examine seams, folds, and tags of mattresses, box springs, and headboards with a flashlight. Look for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting (fecal stains). Use a stiff brush to dislodge any hidden bugs and vacuum the entire surface, paying special attention to crevices. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container.
Fourth, apply targeted control measures. Consider using a certified heat‑treatment device that raises the temperature of the infested zone to 50 °C (122 °F) for a sustained period, which kills all life stages. If heat is unavailable, apply a registered insecticide formulated for bed‑bugs, following label directions precisely. Focus on cracks, baseboards, and furniture joints.
Fifth, prevent re‑infestation. Encase the mattress and box spring in a zippered, bed‑bug‑proof cover that remains sealed for at least one year. Reduce clutter that offers hiding places. Seal gaps around walls, electrical outlets, and plumbing fixtures with caulk. Regularly inspect travel luggage and clothing after trips, and keep luggage off the bed.
Finally, monitor progress. Set up sticky traps under the bed legs and check weekly for new activity. Continue vacuuming and washing bedding weekly for several months. If bites persist or evidence of bugs reappears, consult a professional pest‑management service for comprehensive eradication.
By following these steps—prompt skin care, thorough cleaning, precise inspection, effective treatment, and vigilant prevention—you can alleviate symptoms and eliminate the pest from your home.