How to avoid taking bedbugs with you when moving? - briefly
Inspect, clean, and heat‑treat all belongings before packing; place items in sealed plastic bags or containers, and vacuum and disinfect the moving vehicle to prevent any hitchhiking insects.
How to avoid taking bedbugs with you when moving? - in detail
When relocating, the primary risk of transporting bedbugs lies in contaminated furniture, clothing, and packing materials. Follow a systematic protocol to eliminate that risk.
First, inspect every item before it enters a moving container. Separate belongings into three categories: clean, suspect, and discard. For clean items, wash or dry‑clean fabrics, then store them in sealed, airtight bags. For suspect items such as upholstered chairs, mattresses, or boxed belongings, treat them with a proven insecticide or heat. Professional heat‑treatment (above 120 °F/49 °C for at least 30 minutes) kills all life stages of the pest. If heat is unavailable, apply a residual spray labeled for bedbugs, following label directions and allowing the recommended drying period.
Second, protect the moving vehicle. Line the interior with disposable plastic sheeting or heavy‑duty trash bags, securing the edges with tape. Place all sealed bags and treated items on top of this barrier. Avoid placing items directly on the floor or on the vehicle’s upholstery.
Third, handle bedding and clothing with care. Launder sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and all washable garments in hot water (minimum 120 °F/49 °C) and tumble dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For non‑washable items, enclose them in vacuum‑sealed bags after a brief exposure to a portable heat chamber or a certified insecticide fogger.
Fourth, conduct a final inspection after loading. Use a flashlight to examine seams, folds, and crevices of furniture for live insects or shed skins. If any signs appear, repeat heat or chemical treatment before departure.
Fifth, upon arrival, repeat the inspection process before unpacking. Keep all sealed bags closed until the new residence has been thoroughly vacuumed and, if possible, steam‑treated. Only then transfer items to the new space.
Key steps in summary:
- Sort belongings into clean, suspect, discard.
- Wash or dry‑clean textiles; heat‑treat or insecticide‑treat suspect items.
- Line moving vehicle with disposable barrier material.
- Seal treated items in airtight containers.
- Perform flashlight inspection before and after transport.
- Re‑inspect and treat items in the new location before use.
Adhering to this procedure minimizes the likelihood of carrying bedbugs to a new home.