How can one get rid of bedbugs behind wallpaper? - briefly
Use a professional heat treatment or a residual bed‑bug insecticide, then remove the wallpaper by cutting it into sections and sealing each piece in a plastic bag, vacuuming all seams and cracks before sealing the room for several weeks. Re‑inspect after 7–10 days and repeat treatment if any bugs are detected.
How can one get rid of bedbugs behind wallpaper? - in detail
Bedbugs can establish colonies behind wallcoverings, where they are protected from most conventional sprays. Detecting an infestation in this location requires a systematic visual examination of seams, edges, and any loosened sections of the material, supplemented by a flashlight and a magnifying lens. Small dark specks, shed skins, or live insects confirm activity.
Before any eradication measure, isolate the work area. Cover floors with disposable sheeting, seal vents, and wear a respirator, gloves, and protective clothing. If the wallpaper is removable, cut it in strips using a utility knife, being careful not to damage the underlying plaster. Retain the removed sections for inspection and disposal.
Effective control methods
- Heat treatment – Apply a portable heater or professional steam device to raise surface temperature to 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat penetrates the wall cavity, killing all life stages. Verify temperature with a calibrated probe placed behind the removed sections.
- Insecticide application – Use a residual aerosol formulated for bedbugs, labeled for use on interior walls. Spray directly onto exposed seams, cracks, and the backside of the wallpaper before reinstallation. Follow label‑specified dilution and ventilation guidelines.
- Vacuum extraction – Employ a HEPA‑rated shop‑vac to remove visible insects and eggs from cut edges and crevices. Empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
- Desiccant dust – Spread a thin layer of diatomaceous earth or silica‑gel dust on the exposed substrate. The abrasive particles abrade the insects’ exoskeletons, causing dehydration. Reapply after each cleaning cycle.
- Encasement – Install a pest‑proof barrier film over the wall surface before re‑wallpapering. The film prevents re‑infestation and facilitates future inspections.
After treatment, reinstall the wallpaper, ensuring seams are tightly sealed. Conduct weekly inspections for the next two months, focusing on the same zones. If any signs of resurgence appear, repeat the heat or insecticide step. Maintain a clutter‑free environment and reduce harborages to prevent future colonization.