How to get bedbugs out of a house or apartment? - briefly
Eliminate infestations by cleaning, vacuuming, laundering, applying EPA‑registered insecticides, sealing cracks, and using mattress and box‑spring encasements. If the problem persists, employ professional heat treatment or fumigation to achieve complete eradication.
How to get bedbugs out of a house or apartment? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, wing‑less insects that hide in seams, cracks, and fabric. Early detection relies on spotting live bugs, shed skins, or small reddish spots on bedding. Use a flashlight to inspect mattress edges, box‑spring seams, headboards, and furniture joints. Confirm presence before proceeding with treatment.
Contain the infestation by isolating infested items. Wash all linens, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 120 °F/49 °C) and dry on the highest setting for at least 30 minutes. Place non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for a minimum of two weeks to starve the insects. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and floor cracks thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Apply targeted insecticide only where bugs are active. Choose products labeled for bedbug control, following label directions for concentration, application method, and safety precautions. Treat mattress seams, bed frames, baseboards, and crevices. For extensive infestations, hire a licensed pest‑control professional who can apply residual sprays, dusts, or aerosol foggers with proven efficacy.
Non‑chemical eradication methods complement chemical treatments:
- Heat treatment: Raise room temperature to 120 °F (49 °C) for 90 minutes; heat penetrates hiding spots and kills all life stages.
- Steam: Direct steam (≥212 °F/100 °C) onto seams, folds, and cracks; steam destroys bugs on contact.
- Cold exposure: Place infested items in a freezer set to 0 °F (‑18 °C) for at least four days; prolonged freezing eliminates the population.
After successful removal, implement preventive measures to avoid re‑infestation:
- Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, bedbug‑proof covers.
- Keep clutter to a minimum; store items in sealed containers.
- Inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors.
- Perform regular visual checks, especially after travel or after receiving deliveries.
Consistent application of these steps—identification, containment, targeted treatment, and ongoing prevention—provides a comprehensive solution for eliminating bedbugs from a residence.