How can you wash clothing to remove bedbugs? - briefly
Wash infested garments in water of at least 120 °F (49 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes or longer. For fabrics that cannot endure high temperatures, place them in a sealed plastic bag and either subject them to professional heat‑treatment or freeze at –20 °C (–4 °F) for several days.
How can you wash clothing to remove bedbugs? - in detail
Washing garments effectively eliminates bed‑bug infestations when specific parameters are observed.
Hot water is essential; set the washing machine to a minimum temperature of 60 °C (140 °F). At this heat level, both adult insects and eggs lose viability. Use a regular laundry detergent; additional enzymatic cleaners do not increase efficacy against the pests.
The wash cycle should be long enough to maintain the target temperature for at least 30 minutes. A normal or heavy‑duty cycle satisfies this requirement. After washing, transfer the items immediately to a dryer.
Drying must reach a temperature of 65 °C (149 °F) for a minimum of 30 minutes. High‑heat dryer cycles guarantee that any surviving stages are destroyed. If a dryer is unavailable, place the clothing in direct sunlight for several hours, ensuring exposure to temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F).
Items that cannot withstand high heat require alternative treatment. Seal them in a plastic bag and store at –20 °C (–4 °F) for at least four days; freezing at this temperature kills all life stages.
For heavily infested loads, pre‑treat fabrics with a spray containing a registered insecticide approved for textiles. Follow label instructions, apply evenly, and allow the recommended contact time before washing.
Summary of steps:
- Set wash temperature ≥ 60 °C, use standard detergent.
- Run a cycle lasting ≥ 30 minutes at target temperature.
- Transfer immediately to dryer; set dryer temperature ≥ 65 °C for ≥ 30 minutes.
- If dryer unavailable, expose to direct sunlight at temperatures ≥ 50 °C.
- For heat‑sensitive items, freeze at –20 °C for ≥ 4 days.
- Optionally, apply approved insecticidal spray before washing for severe infestations.
Following this protocol removes bed‑bug populations from clothing and prevents re‑infestation.