Bedbugs are biting in the apartment, what should be done? - briefly
Inspect bedding, furniture, and cracks; wash all fabrics in hot water, vacuum thoroughly, seal openings, and immediately contact a licensed exterminator for professional treatment. Isolate infested items and monitor for new bites to prevent further spread.
Bedbugs are biting in the apartment, what should be done? - in detail
Bedbug bites in a dwelling demand immediate, systematic action to eliminate the insects and prevent further exposure.
First, confirm the presence of the pests. Look for the following signs:
- Small, reddish‑brown spots on sheets or mattress seams.
- Tiny, white eggs or shed skins near seams, folds, or crevices.
- Live insects, typically 4–5 mm long, flattened and oval.
- Itchy, red welts on skin, often appearing in a line or cluster.
Once identification is certain, isolate the affected area:
- Strip the bed of all linens, clothing, and fabric items.
- Place each item in a sealed plastic bag; wash at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, then tumble‑dry on the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum the mattress, box spring, bed frame, and surrounding floor. Use a brush attachment, then immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard.
Next, treat the environment:
- Apply a registered insecticide labeled for bedbug control to cracks, baseboards, and voids. Follow label directions precisely, wearing protective gloves and a mask.
- Use a heat‑treatment device or professional steam cleaner on the mattress, upholstered furniture, and any items that cannot be laundered. Temperatures must reach 50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes to kill all life stages.
- Install encasements on mattresses and box springs that are certified bedbug‑proof; keep them sealed for at least one year.
For persistent infestations, consider professional extermination:
- Engage a licensed pest‑control firm experienced with integrated pest‑management (IPM) protocols.
- Request a detailed work plan that combines chemical, thermal, and mechanical methods, and includes follow‑up inspections.
Prevent re‑infestation by maintaining strict hygiene practices:
- Reduce clutter that provides hiding places.
- Regularly inspect second‑hand furniture before introducing it into the home.
- Seal cracks and crevices in walls, flooring, and baseboards with caulk.
- Use interceptor traps under bed legs to monitor for any returning activity.
Document all actions, dates, and observations. Continuous monitoring for at least six months is essential to verify eradication and to intervene promptly if new bites appear.