How to get rid of bedbugs in an apartment on your own using folk remedies? - briefly
First, wash all linens at 60 °C and steam‑clean furniture to eliminate active bugs. Then, apply diatomaceous earth or a 1 % tea‑tree oil solution into cracks, vacuum thoroughly, and encase the mattress to block re‑infestation.
How to get rid of bedbugs in an apartment on your own using folk remedies? - in detail
Bed‑bug infestations begin with small, reddish‑brown insects about the size of an apple seed. Look for live bugs, shed skins, and tiny dark spots (feces) on mattresses, bed frames, baseboards, and behind picture frames. Confirm the problem before starting any treatment.
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Remove all bedding, curtains, and clothing that can be laundered. Wash at 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for two weeks to starve the insects.
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Vacuum every surface, paying special attention to seams, folds, and crevices. Use a brush attachment to dislodge eggs. After vacuuming, immediately empty the canister or bag into a sealed trash bag and discard outside the building.
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Apply diatomaceous earth (food‑grade) liberally to cracks, baseboard joints, and the underside of furniture. The powder abrades the exoskeletons, causing dehydration. Leave it for several days, then vacuum again.
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Use steam cleaning on mattresses, upholstered furniture, and carpeted areas. Steam at 100 °C (212 °F) for at least 20 seconds per spot; the temperature kills all life stages instantly. Allow treated surfaces to dry completely.
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Prepare a natural spray by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar, adding a few drops of tea‑tree or lavender essential oil. Transfer to a spray bottle and mist cracks, seams, and the undersides of furniture. Reapply every 48 hours for two weeks.
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Sprinkle baking soda on carpet fibers and leave for 24 hours before vacuuming. The mild abrasive helps detach eggs and irritates the insects.
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Isolate the sleeping area with a bed‑bug‑proof mattress encasement. Ensure the encasement is zip‑sealed and labeled as insect‑proof.
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Repeat the vacuum‑steam‑powder cycle weekly for at least four weeks. Monitor for live bugs or new fecal spots; continue treatment until none appear for two consecutive weeks.
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Maintain low humidity (below 50 %) and keep indoor temperature between 20–22 °C (68–72 °F). Bed bugs thrive in warm, humid environments; controlling climate reduces reproduction rates.
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Seal any cracks or gaps in walls, floors, and around pipes with caulk. Prevent re‑entry by installing door sweeps on exterior doors.
Following the sequence—launder, vacuum, apply desiccant, steam, natural spray, and repeat—provides a comprehensive, non‑chemical approach that can eradicate the infestation without professional services. Regular inspection and climate control are essential to keep the problem from returning.