How to fight bedbugs if they have appeared in an apartment? - briefly
Locate all infested zones, launder linens at ≥60 °C, vacuum cracks and seams, and seal mattresses and box springs in protective covers. Then apply a certified insecticide or engage a licensed pest‑control service, repeat inspections weekly, and continue treatment until no insects are found.
How to fight bedbugs if they have appeared in an apartment? - in detail
Bed‑bug infestations require immediate, systematic action. Begin with a thorough inspection to locate all hiding places. Check seams of mattresses, box‑spring frames, headboards, nightstands, baseboards, electrical outlets, and cracks in walls. Use a flashlight and a thin‑ended probe to examine tight spaces. Mark each confirmed site with a colored sticker for later reference.
Remove all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics. Transfer items to a hot‑water wash (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills all life stages of the insect. For items that cannot be laundered, place them in a sealed plastic bag and expose them to a portable heater or a professional heat‑treatment chamber.
Apply a non‑chemical approach before introducing insecticides. Vacuum every surface, paying special attention to seams and crevices. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors. Follow with a steam‑cleaner set to at least 100 °C; steam penetrates fabric and eliminates eggs, nymphs, and adults. Allow treated areas to dry completely.
If chemical control is necessary, select products labeled for bed‑bug management. Use a pyrethroid‑based spray for cracks and voids, a residual aerosol for larger surfaces, and a dust formulation (e.g., silica gel or diatomaceous earth) for voids and under furniture. Apply according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring even coverage while avoiding over‑application. Wear protective gloves and a mask to prevent exposure.
When infestation is extensive or persists after DIY measures, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Professionals employ combination treatments—heat, desiccant dusts, and regulated insecticides—delivered with specialized equipment. They also provide a monitoring plan, including passive traps and scheduled re‑inspections.
After treatment, maintain vigilance. Conduct weekly visual checks of previously infested zones. Replace sticky traps in high‑risk areas and record any new activity. Keep clutter to a minimum, seal cracks in walls and baseboards, and encase mattresses and box springs in zippered covers designed to trap insects. Regularly launder bedding on high heat and promptly address any signs of re‑infestation.
Consistent implementation of these steps eliminates the pest, prevents recurrence, and restores a safe living environment.