How can ticks and bedbugs be eliminated at home from bedding? - briefly
Wash all bedding in water above 130 °F and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum the mattress, box spring and surrounding area, steam‑treat or apply a registered insecticide, and seal the mattress and box spring in a certified encasement. Repeat the process weekly for three weeks to break the life cycle.
How can ticks and bedbugs be eliminated at home from bedding? - in detail
Eliminating both ticks and bedbugs from household linens requires a systematic approach that combines heat, chemical treatment, and preventive measures.
First, remove all bedding, pillowcases, mattress protectors, and blankets. Wash each item in hot water at a temperature of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes. Follow the wash cycle with a high‑heat dryer cycle lasting at least 30 minutes; the heat will kill all life stages of the parasites.
Second, treat the mattress and box spring. Use a portable steam cleaner that produces steam of 100 °C (212 °F) and apply it slowly across the entire surface, focusing on seams, folds, and edges where insects hide. After steaming, allow the mattress to dry completely before re‑covering it with an encasement that is certified to be pest‑proof.
Third, apply an approved insecticide. Choose a product labeled for both ticks and bedbugs and suitable for fabric and upholstery. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely: spray a thin, even coating on the mattress, headboard, and surrounding furniture, then allow the treated surfaces to remain undisturbed until the recommended drying time expires.
Fourth, isolate any items that cannot be laundered or steamed. Place them in sealed, heavy‑duty plastic bags for at least 14 days; the parasites cannot survive without a blood meal beyond this period.
Fifth, maintain a low‑humidity environment. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to keep indoor relative humidity below 50 %, which reduces the suitability of the habitat for both pests.
Finally, implement ongoing vigilance. Inspect bedding weekly for signs of live insects or shed skins. Rotate and repeat the washing and drying process every two weeks for the first month after treatment, then monthly for the next two months. Regularly vacuum the bedroom, emptying the canister into a sealed bag and discarding it outside the home.
By integrating high‑temperature laundering, targeted steam, certified insecticidal application, isolation, humidity control, and continuous monitoring, a household can effectively eradicate ticks and bedbugs from its sleeping areas.