How to catch a bedbug with tape? - briefly
Lay a piece of double‑sided tape on a flat area close to likely hiding spots; a bedbug that crawls onto it sticks instantly. Inspect the tape regularly and dispose of it once insects are captured.
How to catch a bedbug with tape? - in detail
Capturing a bedbug with adhesive tape requires preparation, strategic placement, and careful handling.
First, gather supplies: clear or colored packing tape, a small piece of cardboard or stiff paper, a flashlight, a magnifying glass, disposable gloves, and a sealable plastic bag.
Inspect the sleeping area during daylight. Use the flashlight and magnifier to locate the insects, focusing on seams of mattresses, box‑spring folds, headboard cracks, and furniture joints. Spotting a live bug or fresh excrement confirms activity.
Cut a strip of tape about 10 cm wide and 30 cm long. Fold the strip in half, sticky side outward, to create a double‑sided trap. Place the folded tape on a flat surface, then press the cardboard over the center, forming a sandwich that can be pressed onto the target spot.
Position the trap directly over the observed bug or suspected harbor. Apply gentle pressure for 10–15 seconds to ensure the adhesive contacts the surface and any insects present. Leave the trap in place for several hours or overnight; bedbugs are nocturnal and will encounter the tape while feeding.
After the exposure period, inspect the tape. If a bug is adhered, wear gloves, lift the tape, and slide the captured insect into the sealable bag. Seal the bag, label with date and location, and discard according to local pest‑control regulations.
If no insects are found, relocate the trap to another hotspot and repeat the process. Multiple placements increase capture probability.
Maintain a clean environment: vacuum seams, launder bedding at ≥ 60 °C, and declutter to reduce hiding places. Regular monitoring with adhesive traps assists in assessing infestation levels and evaluating treatment effectiveness.