How should you properly treat an apartment for bedbugs on your own? - briefly
First, seal cracks, launder all linens at ≥60 °C, and vacuum every surface, especially seams and baseboards. Then apply a labeled residual insecticide or dust to hidden crevices, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to kill any newly emerged bugs.
How should you properly treat an apartment for bedbugs on your own? - in detail
Effective self‑treatment of a bed‑bug infestation requires systematic preparation, targeted intervention, and diligent monitoring.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to examine seams, mattress edges, box‑spring folds, headboards, baseboards, and furniture crevices. Mark confirmed activity zones with a washable sticker.
Isolate and reduce clutter. Remove items from the floor, store clothing in sealed plastic bags, and discard heavily infested objects that cannot be decontaminated.
Apply non‑chemical measures first.
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics on the hottest cycle the fabric tolerates (≥ 60 °C/140 °F). Immediately place dried items in a sealed bag.
- Vacuum every surface, paying special attention to seams and cracks. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; promptly dispose of the bag or empty canister into a sealed trash bag.
- Steam‑treat mattresses, upholstery, and hard surfaces with a steamer delivering at least 100 °C (212 °F) for 30 seconds per spot.
Proceed to chemical treatment if necessary. Choose a registered insecticide labeled for bed‑bugs and follow label directions precisely. Common options include:
- Contact sprays – apply to exposed insects and immediate hiding places.
- Residual powders – dust into cracks, crevices, and under furniture; avoid inhalation.
- Silicone‑based desiccants – spread on flat surfaces where insects travel; they absorb lipids from the exoskeleton, causing dehydration.
When applying chemicals:
- Wear disposable gloves, a mask rated N95 or higher, and eye protection.
- Ensure adequate ventilation; open windows and use fans to circulate air.
- Treat each identified zone, covering all potential harborages.
- Do not over‑apply; excess product can lead to resistance and health hazards.
After treatment, seal the apartment for at least 72 hours. Keep lights on to discourage nocturnal activity, and limit movement of furniture to prevent re‑distribution of insects.
Implement a monitoring regimen. Place interceptors under each leg of the bed and furniture weekly; replace when filled. Conduct visual checks every 5–7 days for new signs of activity.
If infestation persists after two treatment cycles, repeat the entire process, focusing on missed harborages. Consider professional assistance if population levels remain high despite thorough self‑intervention.
Maintain long‑term prevention by:
- Enclosing mattresses and box springs in zippered encasements designed for bed‑bugs.
- Inspecting second‑hand furniture before introduction.
- Regularly laundering bedding and vacuuming high‑risk areas.
Consistent execution of these steps maximizes the likelihood of eliminating bed‑bugs without external services.