How to get rid of bedbugs at home using a product? - briefly
Apply a certified bed‑bug insecticide spray to infested areas—mattress seams, baseboards, and furniture crevices—and immediately vacuum, then launder all linens and clothing in water ≥ 60 °C; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
How to get rid of bedbugs at home using a product? - in detail
Eliminating bedbugs in a residence with a chemical solution requires a systematic approach.
First, confirm the presence of insects by inspecting seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, upholstered furniture, and cracks in walls or baseboards. Look for live bugs, shed skins, or small dark spots (fecal stains).
Select an EPA‑registered product specifically labeled for bedbug control. Products fall into three categories: aerosol sprays, liquid concentrates for foggers or sprayers, and dust formulations such as silica gel or diatomaceous earth. Choose a formulation that matches the treatment area and personal safety requirements.
Prepare the environment before application:
- Remove bedding, wash at ≥ 60 °C, and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum mattresses, furniture, and floor surfaces; dispose of vacuum bags in sealed plastic.
- Seal cracks and crevices with caulk to limit hiding places.
- Cover food, dishes, and pet items with plastic sheeting.
Apply the product according to label instructions:
- Aerosol spray – direct a fine mist onto seams, folds, and crevices of mattresses, box springs, and furniture. Maintain the recommended distance (usually 12–18 inches) and ensure even coverage.
- Liquid concentrate – dilute as indicated, load into a pump sprayer, and treat baseboards, wall voids, and under furniture. Allow the solution to soak for the prescribed contact time.
- Dust – apply a thin layer into voids, behind headboards, and inside wall cavities. Dust does not settle quickly, providing long‑term residual activity.
Observe safety precautions:
- Wear nitrile gloves, eye protection, and a respirator if the product label requires it.
- Ventilate the area during and after treatment by opening windows and using fans.
- Keep children and pets out of the treated space for the period specified on the label.
After the initial application, repeat treatment according to the product’s re‑application schedule, typically every 7–10 days for two to three cycles. Conduct follow‑up inspections after each cycle; any remaining insects indicate the need for additional treatment or alternative products.
Finally, maintain a preventive regimen:
- Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered covers rated for bedbugs.
- Reduce clutter that offers hiding spots.
- Perform routine vacuuming and laundering of linens.
By adhering to these steps, a homeowner can effectively eradicate bedbugs using a commercially available pesticide while minimizing health risks.