How to avoid transferring bedbugs to oneself? - briefly
Inspect and isolate clothing, luggage, and personal items before bringing them indoors, using sealed bags, hot‑water washing (≥60 °C), or heat‑treatment; then immediately launder or discard them. Avoid direct contact with infested furniture, vacuum thoroughly, and discard the vacuum contents after each use.
How to avoid transferring bedbugs to oneself? - in detail
Prevent personal contact with bedbugs requires a systematic approach before, during, and after exposure to infested environments.
Before entering a potentially contaminated space, inspect bedding, furniture, and seams for live insects, dark‑brown or reddish spots, and tiny white eggs. Pack clothing in sealed plastic bags; keep shoes separate from luggage. Apply a barrier spray containing permethrin or a similar insecticide to luggage and outer garments, following label instructions.
During the visit, limit direct skin contact with upholstered surfaces. Use a thin blanket or sheet to sit on, and avoid placing personal items on the floor. Keep hands away from seams and cracks; if handling objects, wear disposable gloves and wash them immediately with hot, soapy water.
After leaving the area, follow a strict decontamination routine:
- Remove outer clothing, place it directly into a sealed bag, and wash at ≥60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. If washing is impossible, tumble‑dry on high heat for 30 minutes.
- Vacuum luggage, backpack, and personal bags thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and corners. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
- Shower immediately, using hot water and a thorough scrub. Pay particular attention to hair, nails, and skin folds where insects may hide.
- Inspect and, if needed, treat personal items such as electronics, books, and jewelry with a low‑temperature steam or a portable heat‑treatment device (≥45 °C/113 °F for 30 minutes).
Long‑term prevention includes regular inspection of sleeping areas, encasing mattresses and box springs in zippered liners, and maintaining low indoor humidity (below 50 %). Promptly address any suspected infestation with professional heat treatment or approved insecticides to eliminate the source before it can spread to individuals.