How can you quickly get rid of bedbugs on clothing? - briefly
Wash the clothing in water of at least 60 °C for ten minutes and then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes; if washing is impractical, seal the items in a plastic bag and apply a fabric‑safe insecticide spray, allowing the specified exposure time.
How can you quickly get rid of bedbugs on clothing? - in detail
Rapid elimination of bedbug infestations from garments requires heat, isolation, or chemical treatment applied promptly after detection.
First, separate contaminated items from unaffected laundry. Place each piece in a sealed plastic bag to prevent accidental spread during handling.
Heat‑based methods:
- Wash garments in water at a minimum temperature of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least ten minutes.
- Immediately transfer wet items to a dryer set to high heat (≥ 65 °C / 149 °F) and run for a full 30‑minute cycle.
- For fabrics unsuitable for machine washing, apply a handheld steamer, directing saturated steam over all surfaces for a minimum of five minutes per item.
Cold‑based method:
- Seal items in airtight bags and store in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) or lower for at least four days.
Chemical approach:
- Use an EPA‑registered insecticide formulated for clothing, following label instructions precisely. Apply spray evenly, allow the specified drying period, then launder as described above to remove residues.
Precautionary steps:
- Inspect seams, folds, and pockets for live insects or eggs before treatment.
- After heat or freezing, re‑examine items to confirm absence of survivors.
- Dispose of any disposable protective gloves or bags used during the process in sealed containers.
If infestation persists despite these measures, enlist a professional pest‑control service experienced in textile treatment. Their specialized equipment, such as commercial‑grade heat chambers, can achieve temperatures and exposure times beyond household capabilities.
Implementing the outlined protocol eliminates bedbugs from clothing swiftly and reduces the risk of re‑infestation in the living environment.