How can bedbugs be eliminated using an old method? - briefly
Wash all infested fabrics in water hotter than 60 °C and tumble‑dry on the highest setting for at least 30 minutes; the heat eliminates every life stage of the insects. Then vacuum seams, cracks, and crevices thoroughly, sealing and discarding the vacuum contents immediately.
How can bedbugs be eliminated using an old method? - in detail
Eliminating bedbugs with a time‑tested technique relies on extreme temperature exposure. The process involves heating infested items to a temperature that is lethal to all life stages of the insect.
First, gather all removable objects—bedding, clothing, curtains, and small furniture. Wash fabrics in water that reaches at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes, then dry on the highest heat setting for another 30 minutes. Heat penetrates fibers and destroys eggs, nymphs, and adults.
Second, treat larger items that cannot be laundered. Use a portable steam generator that produces steam at 100 °C (212 °F). Apply steam slowly, moving the nozzle no more than 2 cm from the surface, and hold each spot for at least 20 seconds. Focus on seams, folds, and crevices where insects hide. Allow treated items to cool and remain undisturbed for 24 hours to ensure complete mortality.
Third, for rooms and immovable structures, raise ambient temperature. Portable electric heaters can raise indoor air to 55 °C (131 °F) and maintain that level for at least four hours. Seal the space with plastic sheeting and tape to prevent heat loss. Use a calibrated thermometer to verify that every corner stays above the lethal threshold.
Finally, after heat treatment, prevent re‑infestation by:
- Installing encasements on mattresses and box springs.
- Reducing clutter that creates hiding places.
- Regularly inspecting seams and joints for signs of activity.
The method demands precise temperature control, thorough coverage, and post‑treatment vigilance, but it eliminates bedbugs without chemical residues and remains effective after repeated applications.