How to conduct disinfection in an apartment for bedbugs? - briefly
Identify infested zones, declutter, vacuum meticulously, and seal cracks and seams. Apply a certified insecticide spray or professional heat treatment per label instructions, then repeat the process after seven days to confirm elimination.
How to conduct disinfection in an apartment for bedbugs? - in detail
Begin by confirming the presence of bed bugs. Use a flashlight and magnifying lens to examine seams, mattress tags, bed frames, furniture joints, and baseboards. Collect live specimens or shed skins in sealed containers for identification.
Remove all clutter that could hide insects. Wash bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately.
Select appropriate treatment methods. Chemical options include pyrethroid‑based aerosols, residual sprays, and dusts such as silica gel or diatomaceous earth. Apply according to label directions, targeting cracks, crevices, and the underside of furniture. For non‑chemical approaches, use steam generators delivering steam at ≥ 100 °C to penetrate fabric and wood for 10–15 seconds per spot. Portable heat chambers can treat infested items by maintaining 45–50 °C for 24–48 hours.
Protect occupants and pets. Seal the treated area, wear disposable gloves, goggles, and a respirator rated for organic vapors. Ensure adequate ventilation after applying chemicals, and keep children and animals out of the space until the product has dried or the odor has dissipated.
After treatment, repeat the vacuuming and visual inspection after 7–10 days to locate any survivors. Conduct a second round of treatment if activity persists. Continue monitoring for at least one month, using interceptor traps beneath legs of beds and furniture to detect re‑infestation early.
Document each step: date, products used, concentrations, and locations treated. Retain this record for future reference and for any professional pest‑control service that may be consulted later.
Maintain preventive measures. Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered covers, keep clutter to a minimum, and inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors. Regularly wash and heat‑dry bedding to disrupt the life cycle.
Following these procedures systematically reduces the bed‑bug population and prevents recurrence.