How can you treat laundry for bedbugs? - briefly
Wash all affected fabrics in water of at least 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes, then dry them on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Store the cleaned items in sealed bags until you are certain the infestation is eradicated.
How can you treat laundry for bedbugs? - in detail
Treating garments and linens that have been exposed to bedbugs requires a strict protocol to eliminate all life stages of the insect. The process consists of preparation, washing, drying, post‑treatment handling, and preventive measures.
Begin by separating contaminated items from clean ones. Place each piece in a sealed, resealable plastic bag to prevent escape during transport. If possible, label the bags for later identification.
Wash the contents using the hottest water the fabric can tolerate. Temperatures of 120 °F (49 °C) or higher kill eggs, nymphs, and adults. Use a regular laundry detergent; adding a small amount of an insecticidal soap or a laundry sanitizer enhances mortality. Run a full‑cycle wash lasting at least 30 minutes.
After washing, transfer the items directly to a dryer set to high heat. A drying time of 30 minutes at 130 °F (54 °C) or higher ensures complete eradication. For fabrics that cannot withstand high heat, seal the laundered items in airtight bags and store them in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for a minimum of four days; this temperature also kills all stages.
Once the drying or freezing step is finished, remove items from the bags and inspect for any remaining signs of infestation. Fold or hang the cleaned laundry in a clean area, avoiding contact with previously infested surfaces. Dispose of the original plastic bags in a sealed trash container.
To prevent re‑infestation, keep laundry areas free of clutter, vacuum regularly, and treat surrounding furniture with a residual insecticide if necessary. Follow the same high‑temperature washing protocol for any new items that may have been exposed.