How should an apartment be prepared for bed bug elimination? - briefly
Remove bedding, clothing, and clutter; launder washable items at ≥60 °C, vacuum all surfaces, and seal any infested material in sealed plastic bags before the extermination process.
How should an apartment be prepared for bed bug elimination? - in detail
Preparing a dwelling for bed‑bug eradication requires systematic de‑cluttering, thorough cleaning, and coordination with the treatment provider.
- Remove all bedding, curtains, and washable fabrics. Launder at 120 °F (49 °C) for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat. Seal items that cannot be washed in sealed plastic bags for a minimum of two weeks to starve insects.
- Disassemble and relocate furniture away from walls. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, upholstered chairs, and carpet edges using a HEPA‑rated vacuum. Empty the canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and crevices in walls, baseboards, and flooring with caulk or expanding foam. Install door sweeps on exterior doors to block entry points.
- Cover all exposed mattresses and pillows with encasements specifically rated for bed‑bug protection. Ensure seams are zip‑locked and intact.
- Dispose of infested items that cannot be treated, such as heavily soiled furniture or cluttered storage boxes. Follow local regulations for hazardous waste disposal.
- Notify the pest‑control specialist of any remaining items, structural modifications, or recent renovations that could affect treatment efficacy.
- After treatment, restrict movement between rooms for the duration specified by the professional. Maintain low humidity and keep the temperature within the recommended range to discourage re‑infestation.
Adhering to these steps creates an environment where chemical or heat‑based interventions can operate effectively, reducing the likelihood of surviving insects and accelerating eradication.