How to eliminate bed ticks? - briefly
Extract all linens, wash at ≥ 60 °C, tumble‑dry on high heat, and vacuum mattresses, seams, and surrounding floor areas thoroughly. Apply a registered acaricide spray to the sleeping area and seal cracks to prevent re‑infestation of «bed ticks».
How to eliminate bed ticks? - in detail
Eliminating bed ticks requires a systematic approach that addresses infestation sources, treatment methods, and preventive measures.
Identify and isolate the affected area. Remove all bedding, mattress covers, and nearby furniture. Wash fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets, seams, and cracks, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent re‑infestation.
Apply chemical controls with caution. Use an EPA‑registered acaricide labelled for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions. Target cracks, baseboards, and the perimeter of the mattress. For resistant populations, consider a combination of pyrethroid and organophosphate products, applying each on separate days to avoid cross‑resistance.
Integrate non‑chemical tactics. Deploy diatomaceous earth thinly across infested zones; its abrasive particles desiccate ticks upon contact. Place heat‑generating devices (e.g., steam cleaners) on mattresses and upholstery, maintaining temperatures above 45 °C for several minutes to ensure mortality. Consider freezing isolated items at –20 °C for 48 hours, which also proves lethal.
Implement environmental modifications to reduce habitat suitability. Seal gaps in walls, flooring, and window frames to limit entry points. Reduce indoor humidity to below 50 % using dehumidifiers, as lower moisture hinders tick development. Maintain regular cleaning schedules, focusing on vacuuming and laundering at least weekly.
Monitor progress through periodic inspections. Use sticky traps placed near baseboards and under furniture to detect residual activity. Repeat treatment cycles every two weeks for a minimum of six weeks, as tick life stages can span several weeks and may survive initial interventions.
Maintain long‑term protection by encasing mattresses and pillows in allergen‑proof covers, rotating and cleaning them regularly, and conducting quarterly inspections, especially after travel or exposure to infested environments. This comprehensive strategy minimizes the risk of recurrence and ensures a tick‑free sleeping environment.