Bedbugs have appeared in the house, what should be done? - briefly
Inspect all sleeping areas, seal and vacuum infested zones, then engage a licensed pest‑control service for targeted treatment while laundering bedding and clothing at ≥60 °C and using mattress encasements to prevent re‑infestation.
Bedbugs have appeared in the house, what should be done? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed on human blood and can quickly infest living spaces. Recognizing the problem early and acting methodically reduces the likelihood of a widespread outbreak.
First, confirm the presence of the pests. Look for live insects about the size of an apple seed, reddish‑brown coloration, and a flat, oval shape. Examine seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and furniture crevices. Collect specimens in a sealed container for identification if needed.
Next, isolate the affected area. Remove bedding, curtains, and clothing from the infested zone and place each item in a sealed plastic bag. Wash fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight bags for several weeks to starve the insects.
Thoroughly vacuum all surfaces, including mattress tops, furniture frames, carpet edges, and floorboards. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, and immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister in a sealed bag. Follow vacuuming with a steam treatment: apply steam at 100 °C (212 °F) for a minimum of 20 seconds on each surface, as high temperature kills all life stages.
Seal cracks, gaps, and crevices in walls, baseboards, and around electrical outlets with caulk or expandable foam. Install mattress encasements designed specifically for bedbug protection, ensuring zip closures are intact.
If chemical control is required, apply a registered insecticide formulated for bedbugs to cracks, seams, and hidden areas. Follow label instructions precisely, wearing protective equipment and ensuring adequate ventilation. Rotate products with different active ingredients to prevent resistance buildup.
Consider professional heat treatment for heavily infested environments. Certified technicians raise room temperatures to 50–55 °C (122–131 °F) for several hours, a method that penetrates deep into furniture and wall voids.
After treatment, monitor the situation with passive traps or interceptors placed under bed legs and furniture. Check traps weekly for several months, as eggs may hatch after the initial eradication effort.
Prevent future introductions by inspecting second‑hand furniture, using protective covers during travel, and limiting the placement of luggage on beds or upholstered surfaces. Regularly wash and heat‑dry bedding, and maintain a clutter‑free environment to reduce hiding places.
By following these steps—identification, containment, thorough cleaning, targeted treatment, and ongoing monitoring—homeowners can eliminate an infestation and safeguard against recurrence.