Bedbugs have appeared in the bed, what should be done? - briefly
Remove all bedding, wash it at ≥ 60 °C, vacuum mattress seams and surrounding furniture, and encase the mattress and box spring in a certified pest‑proof cover. Contact a licensed pest‑control professional for targeted treatment and arrange follow‑up inspections to confirm eradication.
Bedbugs have appeared in the bed, what should be done? - in detail
A bed‑bug infestation requires swift, systematic action.
First, confirm the presence of insects: live bugs, shed skins, small dark spots (feces), or a sweet, musty odor indicate activity. Inspect seams, tags, and folds of the mattress, box spring, headboard, and nearby furniture.
Next, isolate the sleeping area. Remove all bedding, linens, and clothing. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag. Wash fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on the highest setting for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages. Non‑washable items can be placed in a dryer on high heat or sealed in a freezer at –18 °C for 4 days.
After cleaning, treat the contaminated surfaces. Apply a registered insecticide label‑approved for bed‑bugs to mattress seams, box‑spring edges, and cracks in the frame. Use a dust formulation (e.g., silica‑based) in voids and crevices where sprays cannot reach. Follow product directions precisely to avoid resistance and ensure safety.
For severe infestations, professional pest‑control services are advisable. Certified technicians can perform heat‑treatment (raising room temperature to 50–55 °C for several hours) or steam‑treatment, both proven to eradicate hidden populations.
Finally, implement preventive measures: encase mattress and box spring in zippered, bed‑bug‑proof covers; keep luggage off the bed when traveling; regularly vacuum floors, baseboards, and upholstered furniture; and monitor with passive traps or interceptor devices placed under bed legs. Early detection and consistent hygiene reduce the likelihood of re‑infestation.