How can you quickly and independently get rid of bed bugs at home? - briefly
Wash bedding and clothing in water above 60 °C, dry on high heat, then vacuum mattresses, furniture and baseboards, applying a bed‑bug spray or diatomaceous earth to cracks and seams; finally, encase the mattress and box spring and keep the area isolated for several weeks.
How can you quickly and independently get rid of bed bugs at home? - in detail
Bed bugs hide in seams, mattress tags, cracks, and furniture joints. Confirm their presence by spotting live insects, shed skins, or rust‑colored spots on bedding.
- Remove all bedding, curtains, and clothing from the infested area. Place items in sealed plastic bags and wash at 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes; dry on the highest heat setting.
- Vacuum mattresses, box springs, bed frames, and surrounding floorboards thoroughly. Use a brush attachment to dislodge eggs, then discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container.
- Apply a high‑temperature treatment: rent a portable steamer or use a dryer on high heat. Direct steam at seams, folds, and crevices for 20–30 seconds per spot; ensure the temperature reaches at least 50 °C (122 °F) to kill all life stages.
- Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, bed‑bug‑proof covers. Keep the encasements on for a minimum of three months to trap any survivors.
- Deploy residual insecticide sprays or dusts labeled for bed‑bug control. Target cracks, baseboard edges, and behind headboards. Follow label directions precisely; avoid excessive application that could damage fabrics.
- Set up interceptor cups beneath each leg of the bed. The cups capture insects attempting to climb, providing ongoing monitoring and reducing re‑infestation.
- Reduce clutter and seal gaps in walls, floorboards, and furniture with caulk. Decluttering eliminates hiding places and simplifies future inspections.
Repeat vacuuming and steaming weekly for four weeks. After the final treatment, inspect all sleeping areas daily for a month. Persistent observation and strict hygiene prevent resurgence.