How to get bedbugs out of a bed? - briefly
Remove all bedding, wash it in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat; then vacuum the mattress, steam‑treat it, and encase it in a certified bed‑bug‑proof cover. Repeat the process weekly for at least a month to ensure any surviving insects are eliminated.
How to get bedbugs out of a bed? - in detail
Removing insects that infest a sleeping surface requires a systematic approach that combines physical removal, chemical treatment, and preventive measures.
Begin by stripping the bed of all linens, pillowcases, and mattress protectors. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag and launder on the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate, followed by a prolonged high‑heat dryer cycle. Heat kills all life stages of the pest.
Next, isolate the mattress and box spring. Use a stiff brush to dislodge insects and their eggs from seams, tufts, and folds. Vacuum the entire surface with a HEPA‑rated attachment, moving slowly to ensure thorough suction. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
Apply a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control to the mattress, box spring, and surrounding frame. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding concentration, coverage, and drying time. For fabrics that cannot be treated directly, use a silica‑based dust or a botanical powder, applying a thin layer into crevices and allowing it to remain undisturbed for several days.
Encasement is essential. Install zippered, bed‑bug‑proof covers on both mattress and box spring, ensuring no gaps. The encasements trap any remaining insects and prevent new infestations.
Inspect the bed frame, headboard, and nearby furniture. Remove any detachable components and treat them with the same insecticide or dust. Seal cracks and crevices in the headboard, wall voids, and baseboards with caulk to eliminate hiding places.
Maintain a high‑temperature environment. Place the mattress in a dryer on the highest setting for at least 30 minutes, or use a portable heating unit that raises the surface temperature to 120 °F (49 °C) for several hours.
Implement ongoing monitoring. Deploy interceptors under each leg of the bed, checking them weekly for captured insects. Replace interceptors and repeat vacuuming every 7–10 days for at least three weeks, as the life cycle can extend beyond two weeks.
Finally, reduce attractants. Declutter the bedroom, wash all bedding weekly on a hot cycle, and limit the presence of upholstered furniture near the sleeping area. Consistent adherence to these steps eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.