How to act against bedbugs? - briefly
Identify and isolate infested items, then wash and dry them on high heat or seal them in plastic for several weeks. Apply a registered insecticide or arrange professional heat treatment to eradicate any remaining insects.
How to act against bedbugs? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, nocturnal insects that hide in seams, folds, and crevices near sleeping areas. Their bites cause itching and may lead to skin irritation. Prompt identification and decisive action prevent infestations from spreading.
Detection
- Examine mattress edges, box springs, and headboards for rust‑colored spots, shed skins, or live insects.
- Use a flashlight to inspect dark corners, baseboards, and furniture joints.
- Place sticky traps under legs of beds and sofas to confirm activity.
Immediate response
- Remove all bedding, curtains, and clothing from the infested area. Wash at 60 °C (140 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum mattresses, furniture, and floors thoroughly; discard vacuum bags in sealed plastic.
- Isolate the bed by placing a protective encasement over the mattress and box spring; keep the cover zipped continuously.
Chemical control
- Apply residual insecticides labeled for bedbug treatment to cracks, baseboards, and bed frames, following label instructions precisely.
- Rotate active ingredients to avoid resistance buildup.
- For severe cases, engage a licensed pest‑management professional who can deploy professional‑grade sprays, dusts, or foggers.
Non‑chemical tactics
- Expose infested items to temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F) for several hours; portable heating units can raise room temperature to lethal levels.
- Use a high‑temperature steamer on seams, folds, and upholstery; steam must reach 100 °C (212 °F) to be effective.
- Install mattress and box‑spring encasements that are certified to contain insects and prevent re‑infestation.
Preventive measures
- Inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors; treat suspect items with heat or insecticide.
- Seal gaps around baseboards, windows, and utility penetrations with caulk or expandable foam.
- When traveling, keep luggage off beds, inspect hotel rooms for signs of infestation, and wash all garments immediately upon return.
Monitoring and follow‑up
- Deploy interceptors under each bed leg to capture crawling insects; check and replace them weekly.
- Conduct visual inspections every two weeks for at least three months after treatment.
- Repeat heat or chemical interventions if new activity is detected, ensuring complete eradication.
Consistent application of detection, treatment, and prevention steps eliminates bedbug populations and reduces the risk of recurrence.