How not to bring bedbugs with clothing? - briefly
Inspect garments for insects, wash them in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat before travel, then store in sealed, pest‑proof bags or containers; avoid placing clothing directly on hotel beds or floors.
How not to bring bedbugs with clothing? - in detail
Preventing bedbugs from hitching a ride on clothing requires a systematic approach before, during, and after travel or relocation.
Before packing, inspect all garments for signs of infestation—tiny reddish‑brown spots, shed skins, or live insects. Separate items that have been stored in infested environments and place them in sealed, airtight bags. Wash every piece of clothing in hot water (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages of the pest. For items that cannot be laundered, treat them with a professional‑grade insecticide labeled for fabric use, following the product’s safety instructions.
During transport, keep cleaned clothes in vacuum‑sealed bags or heavy‑duty zip‑lock containers. Avoid placing garments directly on luggage surfaces that may have been exposed to infested rooms. If using suitcases, line the interior with disposable plastic liners and seal them after loading. For backpack or carry‑on scenarios, wrap clothing in a clean sheet or garment bag that can be sealed.
After arrival, inspect luggage and clothing again before entering the home. Remove sealed bags and place them in a dryer on high heat for an additional 20 minutes, even if the items have already been washed. Store cleaned garments in closets that are free of cracks or crevices where bedbugs could hide. Vacuum the interior of luggage thoroughly, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed trash bag.
Key preventive actions:
- Wash and dry all fabrics at ≥60 °C before travel.
- Seal cleaned items in airtight containers.
- Use disposable liners inside suitcases.
- Re‑heat garments after unpacking.
- Conduct a post‑travel inspection of luggage and clothing.
Following these steps eliminates the primary pathways by which bedbugs attach to clothing, reducing the risk of introducing the insects into a new environment.