How can I wash bed linen to remove bedbugs at home?

How can I wash bed linen to remove bedbugs at home? - briefly

Launder all bedding in water of at least 50 °C (120 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes to eradicate all life stages of the pest. After washing, store the items in airtight bags for several days to prevent any survivors from re‑infesting.

How can I wash bed linen to remove bedbugs at home? - in detail

To eradicate bed‑bug eggs and adults from sleeping fabrics, follow a strict washing protocol.

  1. Separate and inspect – Remove all linens, pillowcases, duvet covers and blankets from the bedroom. Examine each item for visible insects or fecal spots; treat heavily infested pieces separately.

  2. Pre‑treat – Apply a concentrated insecticidal spray approved for fabrics or a solution of 1 % hydrogen peroxide directly to suspected areas. Allow the product to act for the manufacturer‑specified time before laundering.

  3. Select the hottest safe cycle – Set the washing machine to the highest temperature the fabric label permits, typically 60 °C (140 °F) for cotton and polyester blends. Use a heavy‑duty detergent; add a cup of non‑chlorine bleach for whites or a color‑safe bleach for colored items.

  4. Extended wash – Choose a long‑duration cycle (30 minutes or more) to ensure thorough saturation. For machines with a “sanitize” option, enable it.

  5. Rinse thoroughly – Run an extra rinse to eliminate residual chemicals and any dislodged insects.

  6. Dry at high heat – Transfer the laundry to a dryer set to the maximum heat setting (at least 70 °C / 158 °F). Dry for a minimum of 30 minutes; longer times increase mortality rates for any surviving stages.

  7. Post‑dry handling – Immediately place cooled linens in sealed plastic bags or airtight containers to prevent re‑infestation before returning them to the bedroom.

  8. Repeat if necessary – For items showing persistent signs of infestation, repeat the entire wash‑dry sequence within 24 hours to break the life cycle.

  9. Clean the washing machine – Run an empty hot cycle with bleach or a commercial washing‑machine sanitizer to remove any residual bugs or eggs.

  10. Maintain environmental controlVacuum the mattress, bed frame and surrounding floor using a HEPA‑rated vacuum. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.

Adhering to these steps eliminates the majority of bed‑bug populations on household linens and reduces the likelihood of a resurgence.