How should I clean an apartment after a bed bug treatment? - briefly
Vacuum floors, carpets, and upholstery thoroughly, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister; wash bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Wipe hard surfaces with a mild detergent, seal any remaining items in plastic bags for a week, and keep the dwelling unoccupied for the recommended post‑treatment period.
How should I clean an apartment after a bed bug treatment? - in detail
After a pesticide application targeting bed‑bugs, thorough cleaning reduces the chance of survivors and limits re‑infestation. Begin with a systematic removal of clutter; excess items provide hiding places and impede inspection. Dispose of heavily infested objects in sealed bags or arrange professional removal.
Next, focus on surfaces:
- Vacuum all floors, carpets, and upholstery using a high‑efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard outside the dwelling.
- Steam‑treat mattresses, box springs, and furniture cushions. Steam temperature must reach at least 120 °C for a minimum of 30 seconds to kill all life stages.
- Launder bedding, curtains, and washable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, seal in airtight bags for 14 days to starve any remaining bugs.
- Wipe down walls, baseboards, and cracks with a cloth dampened in a mild detergent solution. Follow with a contact insecticide labeled for residual indoor use, applying only to crevices where bugs hide.
Flooring and hard surfaces require additional attention:
- Mop hard floors with a detergent solution, then apply a disinfectant that remains effective for several days.
- For sealed hardwood or tile, consider a light spray of a residual insecticide, ensuring no excess moisture remains.
Ventilation aids drying and reduces lingering chemical odors. Open windows and run fans for several hours after each cleaning step. Finally, schedule a follow‑up inspection by a qualified pest‑control professional to confirm the absence of live insects and to advise on any further remedial actions.