How to get rid of bedbugs on a white blouse? - briefly
Wash the blouse in water of at least 60 °C and dry it on the highest heat setting; if any insects remain, apply a fabric‑safe insecticide spray approved for bedbugs. After treatment, keep the garment sealed in an airtight container to avoid re‑infestation.
How to get rid of bedbugs on a white blouse? - in detail
Bedbugs on a light-colored blouse require swift, thorough action to prevent damage and eliminate the insects. Begin by isolating the garment in a sealed plastic bag to stop any spread to other clothing or surfaces.
- Cold soak – Submerge the blouse in water at 4 °C (39 °F) for at least 30 minutes. This immobilizes the bugs and makes them easier to remove during washing.
- Machine wash – Use the hottest temperature the fabric label permits, typically 60 °C (140 °F). Add a heavy‑duty detergent and a cup of white vinegar to disrupt the insects’ exoskeletons.
- Heat treatment – After washing, place the garment in a dryer on the highest safe setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Heat above 50 °C (122 °F) kills all life stages of the pest.
- Chemical option – If the fabric cannot tolerate high heat, apply a bed‑bug‑specific spray labeled safe for delicate textiles. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring thorough coverage of seams and folds.
- Inspection – Examine the blouse under bright light, looking for live insects, eggs, or shed skins. Use a magnifying glass for hidden areas such as collars and cuffs.
- Preventive storage – Store the cleaned blouse in a zip‑lock bag with a silica desiccant or a sachet of diatomaceous earth to deter re‑infestation.
If any signs of remaining bugs persist after the first cycle, repeat the washing and drying steps. Maintaining a clean environment, vacuuming sleeping areas, and treating surrounding furniture will reduce the likelihood of future contamination.