How can you get rid of bedbugs and their eggs? - briefly
Remove infestations by vacuuming, laundering fabrics at ≥120 °F (49 °C), and applying a registered insecticide to cracks and crevices. Follow with a heat treatment of 120 °F (49 °C) for several hours to eradicate any surviving eggs.
How can you get rid of bedbugs and their eggs? - in detail
Bedbug infestations require a systematic approach that combines thorough inspection, environmental preparation, targeted treatments, and ongoing monitoring.
First, identify all infested zones. Examine seams of mattresses, box springs, bed frames, headboards, and nearby furniture. Use a flashlight and a magnifying lens to locate live insects, shed skins, and the small, white eggs attached to fabric folds. Mark confirmed spots with tape to guide subsequent actions.
Second, reduce the habitat. Strip the bed of all linens, wash them in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and surrounding areas, paying special attention to crevices and hidden corners. Seal the vacuum bag in a plastic bag and discard it outdoors. Transfer all removable items (clothing, curtains, cushions) to sealed plastic bags and treat them with heat or cold: expose to temperatures above 50 °C for 30 minutes or place in a freezer at –18 °C for at least four days.
Third, apply non‑chemical control measures. Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bedbug‑proof covers that zip tightly, trapping any remaining insects inside and preventing new colonization. Deploy interceptors under each leg of the bed to capture crawling bugs. Use steam generators (minimum 100 °C) on upholstered furniture, carpet edges, and wall voids; steam penetrates cracks and kills both insects and eggs on contact.
Fourth, administer chemical treatments where necessary. Choose products registered for indoor use against bedbugs, such as pyrethroid‑based sprays, neonicotinoid dusts, or desiccant powders (silica gel, diatomaceous earth). Follow label directions precisely: apply to cracks, baseboards, bed frame joints, and any voids identified during inspection. Rotate active ingredients between applications to mitigate resistance.
Fifth, schedule repeated interventions. Bedbug life cycles span 5–10 days; eggs may hatch after treatment. Re‑inspect and re‑treat affected areas at 7‑day intervals for at least three cycles. After the final round, perform a comprehensive visual check and run the vacuum again to confirm eradication.
Finally, maintain preventive practices. Keep clutter to a minimum, regularly wash bedding on high heat, and inspect secondhand furniture before introducing it into the home. Consistent vigilance reduces the chance of re‑infestation.