How should I wash bedding after bedbugs? - briefly
Remove all sheets, pillowcases, blankets and other washable items, then launder them in water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) with a strong detergent and dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. For non‑washable fabrics, seal them in a plastic bag and place them in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for at least four days before disposal or professional treatment.
How should I wash bedding after bedbugs? - in detail
When dealing with linens that have been exposed to bedbugs, follow a strict protocol to ensure complete eradication of all life stages.
First, remove all bedding, pillowcases, blankets, and any washable fabric from the affected area. Inspect each item for visible insects or eggs; discard any heavily infested pieces that cannot be salvaged.
Prepare the washing machine for a high‑temperature cycle. Set the water temperature to at least 130 °F (54 °C). This temperature is required to kill adult bugs, nymphs, and eggs. Use a normal or heavy‑duty detergent; do not add fabric softeners that could reduce heat effectiveness.
Select the longest wash cycle available, typically a “sanitize” or “heavy‑soil” program. After washing, immediately transfer the items to a dryer.
Dry the laundry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. The dryer’s heat is essential; lower temperatures may allow survivors. If the dryer lacks a high‑heat option, extend the drying time or repeat the cycle.
For items that cannot withstand high heat, such as delicate fabrics, place them in a sealed plastic bag and freeze at –4 °F (–20 °C) for at least four days. Freezing kills bedbugs but does not remove eggs; after thawing, immediately launder on the hottest setting the fabric permits.
Finally, clean the washing machine and dryer interiors. Run an empty hot‑water cycle with a cup of bleach or a commercial disinfectant. Wipe down the dryer drum and lint trap to remove any stray insects.
By adhering to these steps—high‑temperature washing, prolonged high‑heat drying, or freezing for heat‑sensitive items, followed by thorough equipment sanitation—you eliminate the risk of re‑infestation from laundered bedding.