How should a sofa be washed for bedbugs? - briefly
Vacuum the upholstery, then clean any stains with a hot‑water detergent solution and, if the fabric allows, treat the entire surface with steam at a minimum of 130 °C for 30 seconds to eradicate all life stages; after drying, seal the sofa in a plastic bag and store it at –18 °C or lower for several days to ensure any remaining pests are eliminated.
How should a sofa be washed for bedbugs? - in detail
Cleaning a couch that is infested with bed‑bugs requires a systematic approach to eliminate insects at every life stage and prevent re‑infestation.
First, remove all detachable components. Strip off cushions, pillow covers, and any removable fabric. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to avoid spreading insects during transport.
Next, select an appropriate laundering method.
- Machine wash: Use the hottest water setting the fabric can tolerate (generally 130 °F / 54 °C or higher). Add a regular detergent and a small amount of a non‑oil‑based insecticide approved for fabrics, such as a pyrethrin spray, if the label permits.
- Dry‑heat cycle: After washing, tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 120 °F / 49 °C kills all bed‑bug eggs, nymphs, and adults.
For non‑washable upholstery, apply a steam‑treatment. Use a commercial-grade steamer that reaches 212 °F / 100 °C. Move the nozzle slowly across the entire surface, ensuring steam penetrates seams, folds, and crevices. Hold the steam for 10‑15 seconds per spot to guarantee lethal temperatures.
After heat treatment, vacuum the entire sofa thoroughly. Use a HEPA‑rated vacuum with a narrow nozzle attachment. Work methodically, covering every seam, tuft, and under‑cushion area. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a disposable bag and discard it outside the dwelling.
Finally, protect the cleaned sofa. Apply a residual insecticide spray formulated for indoor use on fabrics. Follow the product’s label for dilution and application rates. Allow the sofa to dry completely before re‑covering it with clean, sealed fabrics.
Repeat the entire process after one to two weeks to intercept any eggs that may have hatched after the initial treatment. Maintaining a regular vacuum schedule and monitoring for signs of activity will help ensure long‑term eradication.