How can you avoid bringing bedbugs into an apartment? - briefly
Inspect all luggage, clothing, and used furniture for live insects or eggs before bringing them inside. Store items in sealed bags and avoid placing them on beds or sofas until they are confirmed pest‑free.
How can you avoid bringing bedbugs into an apartment? - in detail
Before moving into a new dwelling, examine every item that will enter the space. Inspect second‑hand furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark spots. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying glass to check seams, cushions, and undercarpeting. Discard any piece showing signs of infestation; otherwise, isolate it in a sealed plastic bag for at least 72 hours before placement.
When traveling, keep luggage off the floor and away from beds. Store suitcases in a hard‑sided container or under a sturdy table. After returning home, unpack directly into a laundry area. Wash all clothing, linens, and fabric accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, place them in a freezer at –18 °C for at least four days.
Apply preventative measures to the living area. Install mattress and box‑spring encasements specifically designed to trap insects. Seal gaps around baseboards, wall outlets, and plumbing fixtures with caulk or expandable foam. Reduce clutter that could provide hiding places; store belongings in airtight containers.
Implement a monitoring routine. Place interceptors beneath each bed leg to capture wandering insects. Use passive sticky traps near potential entry points, checking and replacing them weekly. Record any sightings promptly.
If any evidence of bedbugs appears, act immediately. Isolate the affected area, vacuum thoroughly, and dispose of vacuum contents in a sealed bag. Contact a licensed pest‑control professional for targeted treatment, ensuring follow‑up inspections are scheduled.
By combining thorough inspection, careful handling of personal items, environmental sealing, and ongoing monitoring, the likelihood of introducing bedbugs into an apartment can be minimized.