How to get rid of bedbugs in clothing? - briefly
Wash the affected garments in hot water (≥120 °F/49 °C) for at least 30 minutes and then tumble‑dry on high heat for 30 minutes or longer. If washing is impractical, seal the items in a plastic bag and freeze them at –20 °C (–4 °F) for 72 hours before laundering.
How to get rid of bedbugs in clothing? - in detail
Bedbugs that have infested clothing require prompt and thorough action to prevent re‑infestation. Begin by isolating the contaminated items in sealed plastic bags to stop insects from spreading to other surfaces.
- Hot water wash – Use the highest temperature the fabric can tolerate, at least 60 °C (140 °F). Add a full‑dose detergent and run a complete cycle. Hot water kills all life stages of the pest.
- High‑heat dryer – Transfer the washed garments to a dryer set on the hottest setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat above 50 °C (122 °F) is lethal to bedbugs and their eggs.
- Freezing – For fabrics that cannot endure heat, place them in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) or lower for at least 72 hours. Prolonged exposure to sub‑zero temperatures eliminates the insects.
- Steam treatment – Apply a handheld steamer directly to seams, folds, and pockets. Steam at 100 °C (212 °F) for several seconds penetrates material and exterminates hidden bugs.
- Chemical option – If heat or cold are unsuitable, treat the clothing with a label‑approved insecticide (e.g., a pyrethroid spray) following the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Ensure the product is safe for textiles and allow the required drying time before reuse.
- Professional decontamination – For large loads or persistent infestations, engage a licensed pest‑control service that offers garment‑specific heat chambers or ozone treatment.
After treatment, store the cleaned items in airtight containers until the surrounding environment is confirmed free of bedbugs. Regularly inspect clothing, especially after travel or stays in infested dwellings, and repeat the above steps if any signs reappear. Maintaining a clean, clutter‑free wardrobe reduces hiding places and supports long‑term control.