Household bedbugs: how to get rid of them? - briefly
Begin with thorough vacuuming and laundering all fabrics at 60 °C, then apply a professional‑grade insecticide or heat treatment to infested zones. Seal cracks, install interceptor traps, and conduct weekly inspections for four weeks.
Household bedbugs: how to get rid of them? - in detail
Bedbugs infestations require a systematic approach that combines detection, containment, and eradication. Early identification relies on visual inspection of mattress seams, bed frames, furniture crevices, and wall baseboards. Look for live insects, shed skins, or small dark spots of excrement. Use a flashlight and a magnifying lens to improve accuracy.
Once confirmed, isolate the problem area. Strip bedding, curtains, and clothing; place them in sealed plastic bags and launder on the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate (minimum 60 °C) followed by a high‑heat dryer cycle. Vacuum all surfaces, paying special attention to seams, folds, and upholstery. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and remove it from the premises.
Chemical treatment should follow these steps:
- Select an EPA‑registered insecticide labeled for bedbug control.
- Apply according to label directions, targeting cracks, crevices, and hidden harborages.
- Treat the underside of mattresses, box springs, and headboards with a residual spray.
- Repeat applications after 7–10 days to address newly hatched nymphs.
Non‑chemical alternatives complement the process:
- Steam: Use a steamer delivering at least 100 °C; pass slowly over infested surfaces for 20–30 seconds per spot.
- Heat: Raise room temperature to 50 °C for a minimum of 90 minutes, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Cold: Expose items to –18 °C for at least 4 days; suitable for infested clothing and small objects.
Professional extermination may be necessary for severe cases. Certified technicians employ integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including monitoring devices, desiccant dusts, and advanced heat‑treatment units. Their expertise ensures thorough coverage and reduces the risk of resistance.
Preventive measures after eradication:
- Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, bedbug‑proof covers.
- Keep clutter to a minimum; store items in sealed containers.
- Inspect secondhand furniture before introduction into the home.
- Conduct periodic visual checks, especially after travel or staying in hotels.
Consistent application of these tactics eliminates established populations and prevents re‑infestation.