How can you treat bedding against bedbugs? - briefly
Wash all linens in water of at least 60 °C and dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes to eliminate all life stages. Seal the cleaned bedding in airtight plastic bags for several weeks or apply a fabric‑safe, EPA‑approved insecticide spray according to label directions.
How can you treat bedding against bedbugs? - in detail
Treating infested linens requires a systematic approach that combines thermal, mechanical, and chemical actions.
First, separate all bedding components—sheets, pillowcases, blankets, mattress covers. Place each item in a washing machine set to the highest safe temperature, typically 60 °C (140 °F) or higher. Use a detergent that remains effective at elevated temperatures. After washing, dry on a high‑heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat penetrates fabric and eliminates all life stages of the pest.
Second, apply heat directly to items that cannot be laundered. Portable steamers delivering ≥ 100 °C (212 °F) steam for a minimum of 10 seconds per surface are sufficient. Focus on seams, folds, and stitching where insects hide. For mattresses and box springs, use a commercial‑grade heat chamber that raises internal temperature to 55 °C (131 °F) for 30 minutes.
Third, encase mattresses and pillows in certified bedbug‑proof covers. These zippered enclosures prevent re‑infestation and trap any surviving insects, which die within a week without a blood meal. Ensure covers are labeled «bedbug‑proof» and maintain a snug fit.
Fourth, vacuum all bedding storage areas, including closets and under the bed. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; discard the bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic container outside the home.
Fifth, consider targeted insecticide applications. Apply a residual powder or spray labeled for fabric use, following manufacturer instructions precisely. Avoid excessive coverage; a thin, even layer on seams and corners suffices. For delicate items, opt for a non‑chemical option such as diatomaceous earth applied lightly and later vacuumed.
Sixth, engage professional pest‑management services when infestation persists. Certified technicians employ integrated pest‑management (IPM) protocols, which may include heat‑treatment chambers, specialized foggers, and monitoring devices placed near bedding.
Finally, maintain preventive measures. Store clean linens in sealed plastic containers, inspect new bedding before introduction, and conduct regular visual checks for live insects or shed skins. Early detection reduces the need for repeated intensive treatments.