How should I treat a bed for ticks? - briefly
Remove all bedding, wash at ≥130 °F (54 °C) and dry on high heat; then vacuum the mattress, steam‑clean, or apply a tick‑killing spray according to label directions. Seal the mattress in an airtight cover for at least 48 hours to prevent re‑infestation.
How should I treat a bed for ticks? - in detail
Treating a mattress or bedding that may harbor ticks requires a systematic approach that eliminates the parasites and prevents re‑infestation.
First, isolate the sleeping area. Remove all linens, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to avoid spreading ticks to other rooms.
Next, launder the textiles. Use the hottest water setting the fabric can tolerate, followed by a dryer cycle of at least 30 minutes on high heat. Heat kills all life stages of ticks; temperatures above 130 °F (54 °C) are lethal.
For the mattress itself, begin with a thorough vacuuming. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, and run the hose over the entire surface, seams, and edges. Empty the canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
After vacuuming, apply a heat treatment. A portable steam cleaner set to a temperature of 212 °F (100 °C) can penetrate the mattress layers. Move the steam head slowly, ensuring each area receives direct contact for at least 10 seconds. Allow the mattress to dry completely before re‑covering it.
If chemical control is necessary, select an EPA‑registered acaricide labeled for indoor use on mattresses. Follow the product label precisely: apply the spray evenly, avoid over‑application, and keep the area unoccupied for the recommended ventilation period, usually 2–4 hours.
Finally, implement preventive measures. Install a mattress encasement with a tick‑proof zipper, wash bedding weekly in hot water, and keep the bedroom free of clutter that could conceal ticks. Regularly inspect pets and treat them with veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives, as animals are common sources of re‑introduction.
By combining heat, thorough cleaning, targeted chemical treatment, and ongoing prevention, the risk of tick exposure from sleeping surfaces can be effectively eliminated.