How to clean a sofa of bedbugs at home? - briefly
Vacuum the whole couch—seams, cushions, and fabric—using the highest setting, then seal the vacuum bag to prevent escape. Follow with a heat treatment (steam at ≥130 °F) or an approved insecticide spray, and wash any removable covers in hot water (≥120 °F) before drying on high heat.
How to clean a sofa of bedbugs at home? - in detail
Eliminate bed‑bug infestations from a couch by following a systematic approach that combines mechanical removal, heat treatment, and chemical control.
Begin with preparation. Remove all cushions, pillows, and detachable covers. Wash fabric items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For non‑washable fabrics, place them in a sealed plastic bag and freeze at –18 °C for 72 hours to kill insects at all life stages.
Next, vacuum the entire sofa. Use a hose attachment with a narrow nozzle to reach seams, tufts, and crevices. Apply steady pressure, then immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the residence. This step removes adult bugs, nymphs, and eggs.
Apply heat directly to the furniture. Rent or purchase a portable steamer capable of producing steam at 100 °C. Slowly move the steam nozzle across all surfaces, paying special attention to folds, stitching, and hidden pockets. Maintain steam contact for 5–10 seconds per spot to ensure lethal temperature penetration. Allow the sofa to dry completely before proceeding.
If residual infestation is suspected, treat with an approved residual insecticide. Choose a product labeled for indoor use against Cimex lectularius, preferably a pyrethroid‑based spray or a silica‑based dust. Apply a thin, even coating to the frame, legs, and underside of cushions, avoiding excessive buildup that could damage upholstery. Follow manufacturer safety instructions, wear protective gloves, and keep the area ventilated for at least 2 hours.
Finally, monitor the couch for several weeks. Place sticky traps beneath the legs and inspect weekly for captured insects. Repeat vacuuming and steaming if any activity is observed. Maintain regular cleaning routines and reduce clutter around the sofa to limit future hiding places.