How can I get rid of bedbugs and fleas in an apartment using home methods? - briefly
Use steam cleaning, thorough vacuuming, and hot‑water laundering of all linens, then apply diatomaceous earth or a diluted tea‑tree oil spray to cracks, seams and upholstery; repeat weekly. Declutter and seal entry points to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I get rid of bedbugs and fleas in an apartment using home methods? - in detail
Eliminating bedbugs and fleas from a residence requires a systematic approach that combines thorough cleaning, targeted treatments, and preventive measures.
Begin with a complete declutter of the living space. Remove unnecessary fabrics, piles of laundry, and stored items that can hide insects. Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all stages of both pests.
Vacuum every carpet, rug, mattress, and upholstered furniture using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Move the nozzle slowly over seams, folds, and crevices to dislodge hidden bugs and eggs. After each session, seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and discard it outdoors.
Apply a diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) coating to cracks, baseboards, and the perimeter of the mattress. The fine powder abrades the exoskeletons, causing dehydration. Leave the powder for 48 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
For immediate knock‑down, use a steam cleaner set to at least 100 °C. Direct the steam onto mattress seams, box springs, sofa cushions, and any soft furnishings. The combination of heat and moisture eliminates insects and eggs on contact.
Treat infested areas with a homemade solution of diluted rubbing alcohol (70 % isopropyl) sprayed lightly on surfaces where bugs have been observed. Alcohol dissolves the protective wax on insects, leading to rapid mortality. Test on a hidden spot first to avoid damage to fabrics.
Seal all entry points by caulking gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards. Install fine‑mesh screens on vents and air returns to prevent re‑infestation.
Maintain a strict cleaning schedule: weekly vacuuming, regular laundering of bedding, and periodic steam treatments. Rotate and flip mattresses every six months to disrupt any residual populations.
Finally, monitor progress with sticky traps placed near suspected hideouts. Replace traps weekly and record catches; a decline indicates successful control. If counts remain high after two weeks of diligent DIY effort, professional pest management may be required.