How to clean pillows of bed bugs? - briefly
Strip the pillow cover, wash the pillow at the highest temperature the material permits, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes; if washing is not possible, place the pillow in a sealed plastic bag and freeze it for several days to kill the insects.
How to clean pillows of bed bugs? - in detail
Eliminating bed‑bug infestation from pillows requires a combination of heat, chemical treatment, and preventive measures.
First, separate the pillow from the mattress and any other bedding. If the pillow has a removable cover, unzip it and wash the cover in hot water (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) for at least 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes.
Second, treat the pillow itself. For pillows that can withstand high temperatures, place them in a dryer on the highest setting for 30 minutes. Heat above 50 °C (122 °F) kills all life stages of the insect. If the pillow material is heat‑sensitive, use a professional steam cleaner. Saturate the surface with steam at a temperature of at least 100 °C (212 °F) for 10 seconds per spot, ensuring the entire pillow receives coverage.
Third, apply a residual insecticide approved for indoor use on fabrics. Choose a product labeled for bed‑bug control, follow the label’s dilution instructions, and spray the pillow evenly. Allow the pesticide to dry completely before handling.
Fourth, seal the treated pillow in a zip‑lock bag or vacuum‑sealed container for 72 hours. This period prevents any surviving insects from escaping and allows the chemical to act fully.
Fifth, inspect the pillow after the isolation period. Look for live insects, shed skins, or fecal spots. If any evidence remains, repeat the heat or steam step before re‑applying the insecticide.
Finally, maintain a bed‑bug‑free environment. Store pillows in airtight containers when not in use, vacuum the bedroom regularly, and wash all bedding weekly at high temperature.
By following heat exposure, targeted chemical treatment, and strict containment, pillows can be rendered free of bed‑bug activity.