How can you get rid of bedbugs in an apartment and what do they look like?

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How can you get rid of bedbugs in an apartment and what do they look like? - briefly
Adult bedbugs are reddish‑brown, oval insects about 5 mm long that conceal themselves in mattress seams, furniture crevices, and wall voids. Effective eradication combines thorough vacuuming, high‑temperature steam, mattress and box‑spring encasements, and targeted insecticide treatments applied by a licensed pest‑control professional, followed by ongoing monitoring.

How can you get rid of bedbugs in an apartment and what do they look like? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, reddish‑brown insects about 4–5 mm long, flat, and oval‑shaped. Adults have visible antennae and six legs; nymphs look similar but are lighter in color and lack fully developed wings. They leave tiny dark spots (fecal stains) on mattresses, and their exoskeletons may be found after molting. Live bugs are often seen at the seams of cushions, behind baseboards, and in cracks near the headboard.
Effective elimination requires a systematic approach:

Inspection:

Remove all bedding and examine seams, folds, and tags.
Use a flashlight to scan mattress edges, box springs, and furniture joints.
Check wall voids, electrical outlets, and behind picture frames.

Isolation:

Seal infested items in airtight plastic bags for at least 30 days to starve the insects.
Wash all washable fabrics in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for 30 minutes.

Chemical treatment:

Apply a registered residual insecticide to cracks, crevices, and baseboards, following label directions.
Use a non‑residual spray on visible bugs and their immediate hiding places; repeat after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs.

Physical control:

Vacuum thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and upholstery; discard the vacuum bag in a sealed container.
Place interceptors under each leg of the bed to capture climbing bugs.
Employ steam (≥ 100 °C) on mattresses, furniture, and wall voids for at least 30 seconds per spot.

Environmental measures:

Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding spots.
Seal cracks in walls, floors, and baseboards with caulk.
Maintain low indoor humidity; bedbugs survive less well in dry conditions.

Monitoring and follow‑up:

Re‑inspect weekly for at least two months.
Repeat chemical applications as recommended, typically every 2–3 weeks until no activity is detected.

Professional extermination may be necessary for severe infestations. Certified pest‑control operators can apply heat treatments (raising room temperature to 45–50 °C) or use fumigation gases, both of which eradicate bugs at all life stages. Coordination with landlords or building managers ensures comprehensive treatment of adjoining units, preventing reinfestation.