How can you move without transporting bed bugs with you? - briefly
Inspect and treat all items—launder, heat‑treat, or apply approved insecticide—then seal them in airtight containers or heavy‑duty bags; also vacuum, steam‑clean, and chemically treat the home and any moving vehicle before transport. This prevents bed‑bug migration without requiring extensive pest‑control measures after the move.
How can you move without transporting bed bugs with you? - in detail
Before packing, inspect every piece of furniture, clothing, and luggage for live insects or eggs. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying glass to examine seams, crevices, and mattress tags. Remove any infested items from the moving inventory; discard or treat them separately.
Isolate suspect belongings in sealed plastic bags or containers with zip‑lock closures. Place each bag inside a secondary airtight box, then label the package as “potential infestation.” Store the sealed boxes in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least four days to kill all life stages.
For non‑infested items, employ a two‑step protection process:
- Vacuum and steam: Run a high‑efficiency vacuum over upholstery, curtains, and carpets, then apply steam at 120 °C (248 °F) for several minutes on surfaces where eggs may hide.
- Encasement: Cover mattresses, box springs, and pillows with certified bed‑bug‑proof encasements. Ensure seams are heat‑sealed or taped to prevent breach.
During transportation, use only clean, sealed containers. Load boxes directly onto the moving truck; avoid placing them on the floor or against walls where stray insects could crawl. If a professional moving service is employed, request a pest‑free vehicle and confirm that the crew will not introduce external contaminants.
After arrival at the new location, repeat the inspection process before unpacking. Place all boxes in a well‑ventilated area, open them one at a time, and examine contents for any signs of activity. Dispose of any newly discovered pests immediately with sealed waste bags and a household‑level insecticide spray approved for bed‑bug control.
Maintain a preventive routine for at least three months post‑move: regular vacuuming, periodic steaming of high‑risk areas, and weekly visual checks of bed frames, headboards, and furniture joints. This systematic approach minimizes the likelihood of transporting bed bugs during relocation and reduces the risk of establishing a new infestation.