Bedbugs have appeared at home: what should I do? - briefly
Isolate the infestation by laundering all fabrics at high temperature, vacuuming seams and cracks, and sealing items in airtight containers. Then apply a registered insecticide or engage a licensed pest‑control professional to eliminate the bugs.
Bedbugs have appeared at home: what should I do? - in detail
Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed on human blood and hide in cracks, seams, and fabric. Their presence is confirmed by live insects, dark spots (feces), shed skins, or a sweet, musty odor.
- Conduct a thorough visual inspection of mattresses, box springs, headboards, nightstands, and any upholstered furniture. Use a flashlight and a magnifying glass to examine seams and folds.
- Isolate the infested area by removing bedding, clothing, and linens. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to prevent insects from escaping.
- Wash all washable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C / 140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Non‑washable items should be placed in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for 72 hours or treated with a professional steam device.
- Vacuum carpets, baseboards, and furniture thoroughly. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
- Apply a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control to cracks, crevices, and the undersides of furniture. Follow the product’s safety instructions precisely.
- If the infestation exceeds a few dozen insects, or if chemical treatment is unsuitable, contact a licensed pest‑management professional. They can employ heat treatment (raising room temperature to 50 °C / 122 °F for several hours) or integrated pest‑management strategies that combine chemical and non‑chemical methods.
- After treatment, monitor the situation with sticky traps placed near suspected harborage zones. Replace traps weekly for at least two months.
- Prevent recurrence by encasing mattresses and box springs in zippered covers, reducing clutter, and inspecting second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors.
These actions constitute a systematic response to a household bed‑bug problem, minimizing health risks and limiting spread.