How can you avoid transporting bedbugs to a new apartment? - briefly
Inspect and seal all personal items, applying heat or freezing treatment to any objects that could conceal insects, and thoroughly clean the new unit before moving in. Dispose of or professionally treat any furniture that shows signs of infestation.
How can you avoid transporting bedbugs to a new apartment? - in detail
When relocating, the primary goal is to ensure that no insects hitch a ride in your belongings. Follow these precise actions to keep pests from accompanying you to a new dwelling.
First, examine every item that will be moved. Use a bright light and a magnifying glass to inspect seams, folds, and crevices of clothing, linens, and upholstery. Separate any piece that shows signs of infestation—live insects, eggs, or dark spots—and place it in a sealed plastic bag for immediate disposal or professional treatment.
Second, launder all washable materials at the highest temperature the fabric can tolerate. Set the dryer on a hot cycle for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages of the bug. For items that cannot be washed, place them in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days, which also guarantees mortality.
Third, treat non‑launderable furniture and large objects. Apply a residual insecticide labeled for the target pest to cracks, joints, and hidden areas. After application, wrap each piece tightly in heavy‑duty polyethylene film, sealing the edges with tape to prevent any escape.
Fourth, sanitize the moving containers. Vacuum the interior of boxes, suitcases, and crates thoroughly, then wipe surfaces with an alcohol‑based solution. Allow them to dry completely before loading items.
Fifth, schedule the move during a period when the destination is unoccupied for at least 48 hours. This window permits any surviving insects to be detected during a post‑move inspection before occupants return.
Finally, conduct a comprehensive check of the new residence before unpacking. Use interceptors or sticky traps placed beneath bed frames and along baseboards to monitor for any unexpected arrivals. If traps capture insects, initiate immediate treatment to prevent establishment.
By executing these steps—inspection, high‑heat or freezing treatment, chemical barrier, container sanitation, timed relocation, and post‑move monitoring—you minimize the risk of unintentionally transporting bedbugs into your new home.