How to get rid of bed bugs shown in a photo at home? - briefly
Identify the insects in the picture, then apply heat, steam, or a certified insecticide, wash all bedding in hot water, and vacuum all seams and cracks. Seal openings and repeat the process after 7‑10 days to ensure complete eradication.
How to get rid of bed bugs shown in a photo at home? - in detail
Bed‑bug infestations can be confirmed by examining a clear image of the insects. Once identification is certain, follow a systematic eradication plan.
First, isolate the affected area. Remove bedding, curtains, and clothing; place them in sealed bags before laundering at 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and surrounding furniture, discarding the vacuum bag immediately in a sealed container.
Second, apply a multi‑modal treatment:
- Heat – Raise room temperature to 50 °C (122 °F) and maintain for 90 minutes; heat kills all life stages. Portable heaters or professional heat‑treatment units can achieve this.
- Steam – Use a steamer producing ≥100 °C (212 °F) steam; direct the jet into seams, folds, and crevices of mattresses, sofa cushions, and baseboards.
- Chemical – Apply EPA‑registered residual sprays to cracks, baseboards, and bed frames. Follow label instructions for dosage and re‑application intervals.
- Desiccant – Sprinkle food‑grade diatomaceous earth around bed legs, behind headboards, and in carpet edges; leave for 48 hours before vacuuming.
- Encasement – Fit mattress and box‑spring encasements rated for bed‑bug protection; keep sealed for at least 12 months to trap any survivors.
Third, monitor progress. Install passive traps (e.g., interceptors) under each leg of the bed; examine weekly for live insects. Repeat vacuuming and steam treatment every 7–10 days until no new specimens appear.
Finally, prevent re‑infestation. Keep clutter to a minimum, seal cracks in walls and flooring, and inspect second‑hand furniture before introduction. If the population persists after two treatment cycles, engage a licensed pest‑control professional for targeted fumigation or advanced heat‑treatment.