How can you destroy bedbugs in clothing? - briefly
Wash infested garments in water of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes. Alternatively, expose clothing to steam or freeze at –18 °C (0 °F) for a week to ensure complete eradication.
How can you destroy bedbugs in clothing? - in detail
Eliminating bedbugs from garments requires a combination of heat, cold, chemical, and mechanical methods. Each approach targets different life stages and ensures thorough eradication.
Washing at high temperature is the most reliable method. Set the washing machine to at least 49 °C (120 °F) and run a full cycle with detergent. Follow with a dryer cycle on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; the heat penetrates fabric layers and kills eggs, nymphs, and adults.
Freezing provides an alternative when heat is unsuitable. Place items in a sealed plastic bag and store in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least 72 hours. The sustained low temperature prevents any surviving insects from reactivating.
Steam treatment works for delicate fabrics that cannot endure washing or freezing. Apply a commercial handheld steamer, directing saturated steam onto all surfaces for at least 10 seconds per area. The temperature of the steam must exceed 100 °C to ensure lethality.
Chemical options include approved insecticide sprays formulated for textiles. Apply according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring even coverage while avoiding over‑saturation that could damage fibers. After treatment, allow the clothing to air out in a well‑ventilated area for the recommended drying period.
For items that cannot be laundered, heat‑sealed bags offer a passive solution. Seal garments in a polyethylene bag and leave in a warm environment (room temperature above 30 °C) for two weeks. Bedbugs cannot survive without a blood meal for that duration, leading to gradual mortality.
Professional pest‑control services may be necessary for extensive infestations. Technicians can employ specialized equipment such as portable heat chambers that raise garment temperature to 55 °C (131 °F) for 90 minutes, guaranteeing complete extermination.
Summary of actionable steps:
- Wash at ≥ 49 °C with detergent; dry on high heat ≥ 30 minutes.
- Freeze sealed items at –18 °C for ≥ 72 hours if washing is impossible.
- Apply steam for ≥ 10 seconds per area, temperature > 100 °C.
- Use textile‑safe insecticide sprays; follow label directions.
- Seal in heat‑resistant bags; store in ≥ 30 °C environment for 14 days.
- Contact licensed exterminators for large‑scale or resistant cases.
Combining these methods maximizes the likelihood of complete eradication, prevents re‑infestation, and preserves garment integrity.