Bed bugs in wallpaper: how to get rid of them? - briefly
Isolate the affected wallcovering, apply a wall‑safe insecticide or arrange professional heat treatment, then clean thoroughly and seal any cracks. Monitor with traps and repeat treatment until no activity is detected.
Bed bugs in wallpaper: how to get rid of them? - in detail
Bed bugs can hide behind or within wall coverings, making detection and eradication more challenging than when they reside only in bedding. Their flattened bodies allow them to slip into the seams, grooves, and adhesive layers of wallpaper. Effective control requires a systematic approach that addresses both the insects and the environment that shelters them.
First, confirm the presence of the pests. Look for small, rust‑colored spots on the wallpaper surface, shed exoskeletons, or live insects when the area is illuminated with a bright light. Use a magnifying lens to examine cracks and the edges of patterned sections, where the insects often congregate.
Once an infestation is verified, follow these steps:
- Isolate the affected area: Seal doors and vents leading to the room. Cover openings with plastic sheeting and tape to prevent spread.
- Remove contaminated wallpaper: Carefully strip the paper, cutting it into manageable sections. Place each piece in a sealed bag for disposal or treatment.
- Treat underlying substrate: Apply a residual insecticide labeled for indoor use on cracks, seams, and the wall surface. Follow the product’s label for concentration and safety precautions.
- Heat or steam: Direct a professional‑grade steamer onto the exposed wall for several minutes, maintaining temperatures above 120 °F (49 °C) to kill any remaining bugs and eggs.
- Vacuum thoroughly: Use a high‑efficiency vacuum with a HEPA filter to collect dislodged insects, eggs, and debris. Empty the canister into a sealed bag immediately.
- Re‑install wall covering: After the substrate has dried and the insecticide has cured, install new wallpaper or paint with a sealant that does not provide hiding spots.
Preventive measures reduce the risk of recurrence:
- Inspect new wallpaper: Examine rolls for signs of pests before installation.
- Seal cracks: Use caulk to close gaps around baseboards, outlets, and molding.
- Monitor regularly: Place passive interceptors or sticky traps near baseboards to detect early activity.
- Control adjacent rooms: Treat neighboring spaces, as bed bugs can travel through wall voids and floorboards.
If the infestation is extensive or the wallpaper cannot be removed safely, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. They can employ fumigation, desiccant dusts, or specialized heat treatments that reach hidden voids without damaging interior finishes. Continuous monitoring after treatment ensures that the population has been eliminated and helps maintain a pest‑free environment.