How to avoid transferring bed bugs to another apartment through clothing? - briefly
Seal all garments in airtight containers, wash them in water at least 60 °C and dry on high heat before moving them to the new apartment. Inspect each item after packing and apply a controlled heat treatment or approved insecticide if any signs of infestation are found.
How to avoid transferring bed bugs to another apartment through clothing? - in detail
Bed bugs can hitch a ride on garments, shoes, and accessories, turning personal items into vectors for infestation in a new residence. Recognizing the potential for transport is essential before relocating belongings.
Inspection of each piece of clothing should begin with a visual examination in bright light. Look for live insects, shed skins, or rust‑colored spots on seams, cuffs, and pockets. Use a fine‑toothed comb to separate fabric layers and reveal hidden specimens. Items that show any sign of infestation must be isolated immediately.
Isolation can be achieved by placing suspect garments in sealed, airtight bags. Plastic zip‑lock bags of appropriate size prevent escape and limit exposure to other belongings. For larger items, such as coats or blankets, employ heavy‑duty trash bags with double sealing.
Laundering procedures that eliminate bed bugs include:
- Washing at a minimum temperature of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes.
- Using a high‑efficiency dryer on the hottest setting for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Adding a commercial insecticide spray approved for fabrics, if washing at high temperature is not feasible.
Items that cannot be laundered, such as delicate fabrics or shoes, should undergo alternative treatments. Options include:
- Freezing at –18 °C (0 °F) for 72 hours, which kills all life stages.
- Applying a professional heat‑treatment service that raises the temperature of the item to 50–60 °C for several hours.
During transport, keep all cleaned and sealed items separate from untreated belongings. Use dedicated containers that have been inspected and, if possible, pre‑treated with a residual insecticide. Avoid placing sealed bags in the same suitcase or moving box as unwashed clothing.
After arrival in the new apartment, repeat the inspection process for each item before unpacking. Dispose of any bags that show signs of breach. Maintain regular monitoring by placing passive interceptors under the legs of beds and furniture for the first several weeks. Early detection of any stray insects allows prompt remediation, preventing a new infestation from establishing.