How is sanitation performed against bed bugs? - briefly
Sanitation requires decluttering, washing all bedding and clothing at ≥ 60 °C, and thoroughly vacuuming seams, cracks, and furniture to remove bugs and eggs. Afterwards, apply approved insecticidal dusts or steam to treated areas to ensure complete elimination.
How is sanitation performed against bed bugs? - in detail
Effective sanitation against Cimex infestations relies on a systematic sequence of actions that remove insects, eggs, and harborages while preventing re‑introduction.
First, identify all infested zones. Use a flashlight and magnifier to locate live bugs, exuviae, and fecal spots on mattress seams, box‑spring edges, headboards, baseboards, and upholstered furniture. Mark each site to guide treatment.
Second, isolate the area. Remove all bedding, curtains, and clothing from the room and place them in sealed plastic bags. Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places; keep only essential items and store them off the floor.
Third, apply high‑temperature laundering. Wash textiles at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) for 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least four days.
Fourth, perform thorough vacuuming. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; vacuum mattresses, box springs, furniture frames, cracks, and crevices. Immediately empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the dwelling.
Fifth, employ steam treatment. Direct steam (≥100 °C) at all surfaces where bugs hide, moving the nozzle slowly to ensure penetration into fabric fibers and wood grain. Steam eliminates both mobile insects and eggs.
Sixth, apply heat‑based remediation. Raise room temperature to 50–55 °C (122–131 °F) for a sustained period of 4–6 hours using professional heaters. Monitor temperature with calibrated devices to guarantee lethal exposure throughout.
Seventh, use residual insecticide judiciously. Select products labeled for bed‑bug control, apply according to label directions on baseboards, under furniture, and inside wall voids. Avoid direct application to sleeping surfaces unless specifically permitted.
Eighth, seal entry points. Install door sweeps, repair cracks in walls and floors, and cover vents with fine mesh to block migration.
Ninth, establish a monitoring system. Place interceptor traps beneath each leg of the bed and furniture to capture emerging insects. Inspect traps weekly and record findings to assess treatment efficacy.
Finally, maintain a preventive routine. Launder bedding weekly, vacuum regularly, and conduct periodic visual inspections. Promptly address any new signs of activity to prevent resurgence.