How can I properly eliminate domestic bed bugs? - briefly
Wash infested linens and clothing at ≥ 120 °F, dry on high heat, vacuum seams and furniture thoroughly, then treat the area with a registered insecticide or professional heat‑treatment system and use interceptor traps to verify eradication.
How can I properly eliminate domestic bed bugs? - in detail
Bed bugs thrive in hidden cracks, mattress seams, and upholstered furniture; early detection prevents widespread infestation. Inspect all sleeping surfaces, baseboards, and behind picture frames for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to locate these signs.
Prepare the area by removing clutter, laundering all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and drying on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Seal cleaned items in airtight bags to avoid re‑contamination. Vacuum carpets, floor mats, and furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
Apply a residual insecticide approved for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Target cracks, crevices, and the underside of mattresses. For chemical‑free control, employ a steam cleaner set to at least 100 °C, directing the jet into seams, folds, and hard‑to‑reach areas for a minimum of 20 seconds per spot. Heat‑treat rooms by raising ambient temperature to 50 °C and maintaining it for several hours, using professional equipment if necessary.
Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, bed‑bug‑proof covers; keep them sealed for at least one year to starve any remaining insects. Install interceptors beneath each leg of the bed to capture crawling bugs and monitor activity. Repeat vacuuming, steaming, and inspection weekly for a minimum of four weeks, as eggs may hatch after the initial treatment.
Prevent future infestations by inspecting second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors, sealing cracks in walls and flooring, and reducing wall‑to‑floor gaps with caulk. Regularly wash bedding on hot cycles and maintain clutter‑free sleeping environments. Consistent application of these measures eliminates the pest and minimizes the risk of recurrence.