How can I get rid of bedbugs and ticks at home? - briefly
Remove bedbugs by vacuuming all surfaces, laundering bedding at 120 °F, and applying a registered insecticide to cracks, seams, and furniture. Control ticks by trimming yard vegetation, treating pets with veterinary‑approved products, and using an indoor acaricide where necessary.
How can I get rid of bedbugs and ticks at home? - in detail
Eliminate both bed‑bugs and ticks by following a systematic approach that combines inspection, sanitation, physical removal, chemical treatment, and preventive measures.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Examine seams, folds, and edges of mattresses, box springs, and upholstered furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting. In sleeping areas, lift bedding and check the headboard, nightstand drawers, and baseboards. For ticks, focus on carpet fibers, pet bedding, and areas where clothing or shoes are stored.
Sanitize the environment. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Steam‑clean mattresses, sofas, and carpets; steam penetrates cracks and kills insects and their eggs. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, moving slowly over each surface, then seal the vacuum bag or empty canister into a plastic bag before discarding.
Apply physical barriers. Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, insect‑proof covers that remain on for 12 months; this traps any remaining bugs and prevents new colonization. Seal cracks, gaps around baseboards, and entry points with caulk or expanding foam to limit harborage.
Deploy chemical controls where necessary. Select a registered insecticide labeled for bed‑bug and tick treatment. Apply according to label directions, targeting crevices, seams, and baseboard joints. For ticks, treat pet bedding and surrounding floor areas with a product approved for indoor use. Wear protective gloves and a mask during application, and keep the area unoccupied for the prescribed ventilation period.
Repeat the process. Conduct a second inspection after 7–10 days, then repeat laundering, vacuuming, and targeted insecticide application. A third round after 30 days ensures any newly emerged insects are eradicated.
Maintain prevention. Keep clutter to a minimum, store clothing in sealed containers, and regularly wash pet bedding. Inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors. Use a low‑temperature dryer cycle (≥ 45 °C) for any items that cannot be laundered.
If infestations persist despite repeated efforts, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They possess advanced tools such as heat‑treatment units and fumigation methods that achieve complete eradication.