How can you get rid of mites and bedbugs at home? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks, then wash bedding and fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Apply a certified insecticide spray or dust to infested areas, seal entry points, and repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any survivors.
How can you get rid of mites and bedbugs at home? - in detail
Eliminate microscopic pests by combining chemical, physical, and preventive actions.
Begin with thorough cleaning. Strip bedding, curtains, and removable upholstery; wash at 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Dry on high heat to kill all life stages. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, furniture seams, and floor edges using a HEPA‑rated filter; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Apply heat treatment to infested items that cannot be laundered. Place clothing, shoes, and small objects in a dryer on the highest setting for 30 minutes, or use a portable steam cleaner set to at least 130 °C (266 °F) on surfaces, crevices, and cracks.
Use approved insecticides sparingly. Choose products labeled for dust mites and bed bugs, such as pyrethroid sprays, silica‑based dusts, or diatomaceous earth. Apply according to manufacturer directions, focusing on:
- Mattress seams and tufts
- Bed frame joints
- Baseboard gaps
- Furniture hidden undercarriages
Seal all treated areas after application to prevent re‑infestation.
Introduce biological controls where appropriate. Predatory mites (e.g., Stratiolaelaps scimitus) can reduce dust mite populations in carpets and stored grain.
Implement environmental modifications:
- Reduce indoor humidity below 50 % using dehumidifiers or proper ventilation.
- Maintain indoor temperature between 18‑22 °C (64‑72 °F) to discourage mite reproduction.
- Use encasements for mattresses and pillows that are certified to block pests.
- Eliminate clutter that provides hiding places.
Inspect regularly. Conduct visual checks weekly, focusing on seams, folds, and dark corners. Use a flashlight and magnifying lens to detect live insects, shed skins, or fecal spots.
If infestation persists after these steps, consider professional extermination. Certified pest‑control operators can employ heat chambers, fumigation, or specialized chemicals unavailable to consumers.
Consistent adherence to cleaning, heat, chemical, and environmental strategies will eradicate both mite and bed‑bug populations and prevent future outbreaks.