How can you get rid of bedbugs in a bed or sofa? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum the infested area, then apply a high‑heat treatment (steam or dryer) and, if necessary, a labeled residual insecticide, sealing the mattress or sofa in a protective cover; repeat the process after 7‑10 days to eliminate any newly hatched bugs.
How can you get rid of bedbugs in a bed or sofa? - in detail
Eliminating bed‑bug infestations from a mattress or couch requires a systematic approach.
First, confirm the presence of insects by inspecting seams, tags, and crevices for live bugs, shed skins, or dark fecal spots. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to improve detection.
Next, isolate the contaminated furniture. Remove all bedding, cushions, and removable covers and place them in sealed plastic bags. Wash fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages.
Vacuum thoroughly on both sides of the mattress, under the sofa cushions, and along all folds and joints. Employ a brush attachment, empty the vacuum bag into a sealed container, and discard it outdoors.
Apply steam treatment to the entire surface of the furniture. Steam at 100 °C (212 °F) for a minimum of 10 seconds per spot penetrates deep into fabric and wood, destroying eggs and nymphs. Move the nozzle slowly to ensure complete coverage.
For residual insects, use a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control. Apply according to the product label, focusing on cracks, seams, and hidden areas. Avoid over‑application; follow safety precautions and ventilate the room after treatment.
Encasement of the mattress and sofa with a certified, zippered cover traps any remaining bugs and prevents re‑infestation. Leave the encasement on for at least one year, inspecting regularly.
If the infestation persists after these measures, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. They can perform advanced procedures such as whole‑room heat treatment (raising ambient temperature to 50‑55 °C/122‑131 °F for several hours) or targeted fumigation.
Finally, implement preventive practices: keep clutter to a minimum, inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors, and regularly wash and heat‑dry bedding. Consistent monitoring reduces the likelihood of future outbreaks.