How should you treat a mattress against bedbugs? - briefly
Place a certified, zippered encasement over the mattress and launder all linens in water above 60 °C. Apply a residual insecticide approved for fabrics and inspect regularly with sticky traps for at least 30 days.
How should you treat a mattress against bedbugs? - in detail
Treating a mattress infested with bedbugs requires a systematic approach that eliminates insects at every life stage and prevents re‑infestation.
First, isolate the bed. Remove all linens, pillows, and mattress protectors. Wash fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. This destroys eggs and nymphs that may be hidden in seams.
Second, apply a heat‑treatment method. Professional equipment can raise mattress temperature to 50–55 °C for 30–45 minutes, a range proven to kill all developmental stages. If professional services are unavailable, use a portable steam cleaner with a nozzle that reaches at least 100 °C. Move the nozzle slowly across the surface, paying special attention to folds, tufts, and stitching lines where insects hide.
Third, use a residual insecticide approved for mattresses. Select a product labeled for “bedbug control” and containing a non‑oil based active ingredient such as pyrethroid, neonicotinoid, or desiccant dust. Apply according to label directions, covering the entire mattress surface, including edges and underside. Avoid excess moisture that could damage the foam.
Fourth, encase the mattress in an approved bedbug‑proof cover. The enclosure must be zippered, tear‑resistant, and certified to retain insects for at least one year. Seal the cover tightly, then leave it on for the duration of the life cycle (≈ 90 days) before removal.
Fifth, monitor the situation. Place interceptors under each leg of the bed and inspect weekly. Replace interceptors if they become full. Continue regular laundering of bedding and maintain low humidity (≤ 50 %) to deter egg development.
Summary of steps:
- Strip and launder all removable items at ≥ 60 °C.
- Apply heat (50–55 °C) or steam (≥ 100 °C) to the entire mattress.
- Treat with a labeled residual insecticide, covering seams and underside.
- Install a certified encasement, keep sealed for ≥ 90 days.
- Use interceptors and monitor weekly, maintaining low humidity.
Following this protocol eliminates existing bedbugs, prevents emergence of new adults, and reduces the likelihood of future infestations.