How can you treat shoes for bedbugs? - briefly
Apply heat of at least 120 °F (49 °C) for 30 minutes or freeze shoes at –20 °C for 48 hours to eradicate bedbugs. Alternatively, treat the footwear with an EPA‑registered insecticide approved for fabrics, following label directions.
How can you treat shoes for bedbugs? - in detail
Treating footwear that may harbor bed‑bug infestations requires a systematic approach to eliminate all life stages and prevent re‑infestation.
Begin with thorough inspection. Examine seams, linings, soles, and any decorative elements for live insects, shed skins, or fecal spots. Use a bright light and a magnifying lens to improve detection.
Isolate the shoes from other items. Place each pair in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container to prevent transport of pests during treatment.
Apply one or more of the following proven methods:
- Heat treatment – Expose shoes to temperatures of at least 50 °C (122 °F) for 30 minutes. Use a dryer on high heat for removable insoles and fabric parts, or a commercial heat chamber for whole shoes. Verify temperature with a calibrated thermometer.
- Freezing – Seal shoes in a plastic bag and store in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) or lower for a minimum of 72 hours. This temperature kills all stages of the insect.
- Chemical treatment – Spray a residual insecticide labeled for indoor use on insects, following the product’s label directions. Focus on crevices, stitching, and interior surfaces. Allow the product to dry completely before handling.
- Vacuuming – Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to remove visible insects and eggs from the interior and exterior. Immediately dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed trash bag.
- Steam cleaning – Apply a handheld steamer delivering steam at 100 °C (212 °F) for several seconds on all surfaces. Steam penetrates fabric and stitching, destroying hidden pests.
After treatment, store shoes in a clean, sealed container or garment bag to keep them protected from re‑infestation. If possible, keep the storage area free of clutter and regularly inspect surrounding spaces for signs of bed bugs.
Maintain preventive measures by regularly cleaning footwear, avoiding placement of shoes near bedding or upholstered furniture, and using protective covers when storing shoes for extended periods.