How can you get rid of bed bugs and mites in an apartment? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum and steam‑clean all surfaces, then seal mattresses and furniture in certified encasements. Apply a professional insecticide to cracks, baseboards, and furniture, and repeat inspections while laundering linens at ≥60 °C.
How can you get rid of bed bugs and mites in an apartment? - in detail
Eliminating infestations of bed‑bugs and dust mites requires a systematic approach that combines thorough inspection, targeted treatment, and ongoing prevention.
First, confirm the presence of pests. Look for live insects, shed skins, rust‑colored spots on linens, and small, white specks resembling peppercorns in seams and crevices. Use a flashlight and a magnifying lens to examine mattress folds, box‑spring seams, headboards, baseboards, and furniture joints. For dust mites, collect a sample of dust on a sticky slide and examine it under a microscope or send it to a laboratory.
Second, reduce the environment that supports these organisms. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable upholstery in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly, then empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors. Seal cracks, gaps, and crevices in walls, floors, and around pipes with caulk or expanding foam to limit hiding places.
Third, apply non‑chemical controls. Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, pest‑proof covers that remain on for a minimum of one year. Place steam‑treated blankets over infested areas; steam at 100 °C for 10–15 seconds penetrates fabric and kills all life stages. Use diatomaceous earth or silica‑based powders in cracks and along baseboards; these desiccants damage the exoskeletons of insects and irritate mites.
Fourth, consider chemical interventions when non‑chemical measures are insufficient. Choose products labeled for bed‑bug and dust‑mite control, such as pyrethroid‑based aerosols or residual sprays, and apply them according to manufacturer directions. Focus on seams, folds, and voids where insects hide. For dust mites, apply acaricide powders to carpets and upholstered surfaces, allowing them to sit for the recommended exposure period before vacuuming.
Fifth, if the infestation persists after self‑treatment, enlist a licensed pest‑management professional. Professionals can perform heat‑treatment (raising room temperature to 50–55 °C for several hours) or cryogenic fumigation (using liquid nitrogen to achieve lethal cold). Both methods penetrate deeply and eradicate eggs, nymphs, and adults without leaving residues.
Finally, maintain vigilance to prevent re‑infestation. Conduct monthly inspections of high‑risk zones, keep clutter to a minimum, and repeat washing of linens on a regular schedule. Replace worn mattress protectors and seal any new cracks promptly. Consistent monitoring and prompt action will keep the dwelling free of these pests.