How should you treat a bed after bedbugs? - briefly
After an infestation, strip the mattress, wash all linens in hot water, and seal the mattress and box spring in a certified encasement; then vacuum, steam‑treat, and, if necessary, apply a residual insecticide to the bed frame and nearby surfaces.
How should you treat a bed after bedbugs? - in detail
After confirming the presence of Cimex infestations, isolate the mattress and box spring from other furniture. Remove all bedding, pillows, and removable covers; place them in sealed plastic bags before transport to the laundry area.
- Wash linens, blankets, and pillowcases in hot water (minimum 60 °C / 140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Vacuum the mattress surface, seams, and box‑spring frame with a HEPA‑rated nozzle. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the dwelling.
- Apply a steam cleaner set to ≥100 °C (212 °F) to the entire mattress, focusing on folds, tufts, and stitching. Move the nozzle slowly to ensure deep penetration; steam for 10–15 seconds per area.
- Encase the mattress and box spring in a certified, zippered encasement that is labeled “bed‑bug proof.” Keep the encasement sealed for at least 12 months to trap any surviving insects and prevent new infestations.
- If residual insects are observed after heat treatment, treat affected zones with a residual insecticide approved for indoor use on fabrics. Follow label directions precisely, applying only to seams and crevices, and allow the product to dry completely before re‑covering the bed.
- Place interceptor traps under each leg of the bed frame. Check traps weekly for at least three months, documenting any captures to verify that the population has been eliminated.
Maintain a regular cleaning schedule: vacuum the bedroom weekly, launder bedding every two weeks, and inspect the encasement for tears. Continuous monitoring and strict adherence to the above protocol will ensure the bed remains free of pests.