How can I remove bedbugs from clothing? - briefly
Wash the garments in water of at least 120 °F (49 °C) and dry them on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; alternatively, seal items in a plastic bag and freeze them at –20 °C (–4 °F) for several days. After treatment, inspect seams and folds and repeat the process if any live insects are detected.
How can I remove bedbugs from clothing? - in detail
Bedbug contamination of garments requires immediate, thorough treatment to prevent re‑infestation. Follow these actions in sequence:
- Isolation – Place all affected items in sealed plastic bags. Keep the bags away from sleeping areas for at least 48 hours to limit spread.
- Temperature control – Use a dryer on the highest heat setting (minimum 120 °F / 49 °C) for 30 minutes. Heat penetrates fabric and kills all life stages. For items that cannot withstand high heat, employ a professional steam cleaner, ensuring steam reaches 212 °F (100 °C) throughout the material.
- Cold exposure – If heat treatment is unsuitable, freeze the clothing in a freezer set at –4 °F (–20 °C) for a minimum of four days. Verify the freezer maintains the required temperature throughout the period.
- Chemical options – Apply an EPA‑registered insecticide formulated for fabric use. Follow label directions precisely: spray evenly, allow the recommended drying time, and repeat after seven days to target any newly hatched insects.
- Laundry – After heat or cold treatment, wash the garments in hot water (≥130 °F / 54 °C) with a regular detergent. Use a full‑cycle wash; add a laundry sanitizer for extra protection.
- Inspection – Post‑wash, examine seams, folds, and pockets under bright light. Use a magnifying glass to detect any remaining specimens. Repeat the drying or freezing step if any are observed.
- Storage – Store cleaned clothing in airtight containers or vacuum‑sealed bags. Include silica desiccant packs to reduce humidity, which discourages bedbug survival.
Additional precautions:
- Treat surrounding surfaces (mattresses, furniture, floor coverings) with the same heat or chemical methods to avoid cross‑contamination.
- Dispose of any single‑use items (e.g., disposable gloves, cleaning rags) in sealed bags before discarding.
- Maintain regular monitoring using passive traps to confirm the absence of re‑emergence.
By adhering strictly to temperature thresholds, proper chemical application, and systematic inspection, garments can be rendered free of bedbugs and remain safe for future use.