Bedbugs have appeared in the apartment, how to get rid of them? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum, steam‑clean, and launder all bedding and clothing, then apply an EPA‑registered insecticide or engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Seal cracks, install mattress encasements, and use interceptor traps to prevent re‑infestation.
Bedbugs have appeared in the apartment, how to get rid of them? - in detail
Infestations of Cimex lectularius in a dwelling require a systematic approach that combines detection, sanitation, physical barriers, and targeted treatment.
First, confirm the presence of the insects. Look for live specimens, reddish‑brown spots on sheets, shed skins, or tiny white eggs. Use a flashlight to examine seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, baseboards, and cracks in furniture.
Next, reduce the population through thorough cleaning. Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum mattresses, carpets, and upholstery repeatedly, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately. Steam‑clean surfaces that can tolerate high temperatures; steam above 45 °C (113 °F) kills all life stages on contact.
Apply physical barriers to prevent re‑infestation. Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, bed‑bug‑proof covers that remain sealed for at least one year. Seal cracks, crevices, and gaps around baseboards, electrical outlets, and furniture legs with caulk or expanding foam.
Implement chemical or non‑chemical treatments as needed.
- Heat treatment: Hire professionals to raise room temperature to 50–55 °C (122–131 °F) for several hours; heat penetrates hidden areas and eliminates eggs, nymphs, and adults.
- Cold treatment: Expose infested items to –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days; freezing kills bugs at all stages.
- Insecticide application: Use EPA‑registered products labeled for bed‑bug control. Apply residual sprays to voids, baseboards, and the undersides of furniture. Follow label instructions precisely, wearing protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation.
- Dust formulations: Apply silica‑based or diatomaceous earth dust to crevices where insects hide; the abrasive particles desiccate the pests.
Monitor progress with sticky traps placed near suspected harborages. Replace traps weekly and record captures to gauge effectiveness.
If the infestation persists after these measures, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. They can perform comprehensive inspections, employ advanced tools such as heat chambers or fumigation, and ensure compliance with local regulations.
Maintain vigilance by regularly inspecting sleeping areas, laundering bedding weekly, and keeping clutter to a minimum. Consistent sanitation and prompt response to any sign of resurgence prevent the problem from re‑establishing.