Bed bugs: what should I do at home if they are in my bed? - briefly
Remove bedding, wash at ≥60 °C, dry on high heat, then vacuum mattress, frame, and nearby furniture; seal the mattress and box spring in a certified encasement and place interceptor traps under each leg. Monitor for several weeks and, if activity persists, contact a professional pest‑control service.
Bed bugs: what should I do at home if they are in my bed? - in detail
Bed‑bug infestations in a sleeping area require swift, systematic action to eliminate insects and prevent re‑establishment.
First, confirm presence. Live insects appear as reddish‑brown, oval‑shaped bodies about 5 mm long. Dark spots (excrement) and tiny white eggs are visible on mattress seams, headboard, and nearby furniture.
Second, isolate the bed. Remove all bedding, pillows, and mattress protectors. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to contain insects during treatment.
Third, treat textiles. Wash all washable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Non‑washable items, such as delicate pillows, may be placed in a freezer at –18 °C for 72 hours to kill all life stages.
Fourth, de‑clutter the surrounding area. Discard or seal in airtight containers any items that cannot be cleaned, including stuffed toys, books, and clothing.
Fifth, clean the mattress and surrounding surfaces.
- Vacuum the entire mattress, box spring, bed frame, and nearby floor using a hose attachment. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard outside the home.
- Apply a high‑temperature steam treatment (≥ 100 °C) to seams, folds, and crevices. Steam penetrates deep enough to eradicate hidden insects and eggs.
- Install encasement covers designed for bed‑bug protection on both mattress and box spring. Ensure seams are sealed with a zipper that fully encloses the interior.
Sixth, address cracks and crevices in walls, baseboards, and furniture. Use a fine‑toothed brush to dislodge insects, then apply an EPA‑registered insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control. Follow label directions precisely, wearing protective gloves and a mask.
Seventh, monitor progress. Place interceptors under each bed leg to capture any migrating insects. Replace interceptors weekly and record catches to assess treatment efficacy.
Eighth, consider professional intervention if infestation persists after two treatment cycles or if the dwelling contains extensive clutter. Certified pest‑management operators possess specialized equipment, such as heat‑treatment chambers and desiccant dusts, that achieve higher eradication rates.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Maintain regular laundering of bedding, keep clutter to a minimum, and inspect secondhand furniture before introduction into the home. Routine use of interceptors and periodic vacuuming reduce the likelihood of re‑infestation.
Following these steps systematically maximizes the probability of complete elimination while minimizing exposure to chemicals and the risk of resurgence.