Bedbugs in an apartment: what should you do, how can you get rid of them quickly and efficiently? - briefly
Inspect the unit, isolate infested items, and apply a certified insecticide or heat treatment; then vacuum, launder fabrics at high temperature, and seal all belongings in plastic before contacting a professional exterminator for confirmation and follow‑up. Prompt, thorough action prevents spread and eliminates the pests efficiently.
Bedbugs in an apartment: what should you do, how can you get rid of them quickly and efficiently? - in detail
Bedbugs infestations require swift identification and decisive action. First, confirm their presence by inspecting seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, furniture joints, and wall cracks. Look for live insects, shed skins, or small dark spots of excrement. Use a flashlight and a fine-toothed comb to separate hidden bugs from fabric.
Once verification is complete, isolate the affected area. Remove all bedding, curtains, and removable upholstery. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag and wash at temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for 30 minutes, then dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight containers for a minimum of two weeks, depriving bugs of a food source.
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, floor seams, and upholstered surfaces. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors. Follow vacuuming with steam treatment: apply steam at 100 °C (212 °F) for at least 10 seconds on cracks, crevices, and fabric folds. The heat penetrates deep enough to kill all life stages.
Apply residual insecticide formulated for indoor use against bedbugs. Spray along baseboards, under furniture, behind picture frames, and in any identified harborages. Follow label instructions regarding concentration, ventilation, and re‑application intervals. For non‑chemical alternatives, use diatomaceous earth sparingly in voids; the abrasive particles damage the insects’ exoskeletons, leading to dehydration.
If the infestation persists after two treatment cycles, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Professionals can deploy heat‑treatment units that raise room temperature to 50–55 °C (122–131 °F) for several hours, ensuring complete mortality. They also have access to insect growth regulators that inhibit development of eggs and nymphs.
Prevent recurrence by reducing clutter, sealing gaps around pipes and electrical outlets with caulk, and installing protective mattress encasements that trap any remaining insects. Conduct regular inspections, especially after travel or the acquisition of second‑hand furniture, to catch early signs before the population expands.