How can I get rid of bedbugs in an apartment, what should I do, household bedbugs? - briefly
Inspect all bedding, furniture, and cracks; wash infested fabrics at ≥60 °C, vacuum thoroughly, apply an EPA‑registered bed‑bug insecticide to seams and crevices, seal entry points, and repeat the process after 7–10 days to ensure eradication.
How can I get rid of bedbugs in an apartment, what should I do, household bedbugs? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, nocturnal insects that hide in cracks, seams, and fabric. Successful eradication requires a systematic approach that combines inspection, sanitation, chemical and non‑chemical treatments, and preventive measures.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Examine mattress edges, box springs, headboards, and furniture joints. Use a flashlight and a magnifying glass to locate live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting. Mark each infested area with tape to track treatment zones.
Next, remove clutter that provides hiding places. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Seal non‑washable items in airtight plastic bags for two weeks to starve any insects.
Apply targeted treatments:
- Heat – Rent or purchase a portable heater capable of raising room temperature to 50 °C (122 °F) for several hours. Heat penetrates cracks and kills all life stages.
- Steam – Use a commercial‑grade steamer (minimum 100 °C) on mattresses, upholstery, and baseboards. Move the nozzle slowly to ensure sufficient exposure.
- Insecticide dust – Apply a labeled diatomaceous earth or silica‑based dust into wall voids, under floorboards, and in crevices. Dust must remain undisturbed for at least 48 hours.
- Residual spray – Select an EPA‑registered product labeled for bedbug control. Spray directly onto seams, cracks, and the undersides of furniture, following the label’s safety instructions.
After treatment, isolate the treated area for at least 72 hours. Use interceptors under each leg of the bed and furniture to monitor any remaining activity. Replace mattress encasements with certified bedbug‑proof covers.
Prevent re‑infestation by sealing cracks with caulk, installing door sweeps, and keeping luggage off the floor when traveling. Conduct quarterly inspections, especially after receiving second‑hand furniture.
If the infestation persists despite these steps, contact a licensed pest‑management professional. Professional services can provide fumigation, heat‑chamber treatment, or advanced chemical applications that exceed the capabilities of DIY methods.