How to get rid of blood‑sucking bedbugs in the house? - briefly
Thoroughly clean, vacuum, and launder all bedding, then apply a certified insecticide or heat treatment to cracks, seams, and furniture, sealing treated areas afterward. Repeat the process after 7‑10 days to eradicate any newly emerged insects.
How to get rid of blood‑sucking bedbugs in the house? - in detail
Eliminating blood‑feeding bed bugs requires a systematic approach that combines thorough inspection, physical removal, chemical treatment, and ongoing monitoring.
Begin with a complete survey of all sleeping areas, furniture, and cracks where insects hide. Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to examine seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and the edges of upholstered chairs. Mark any confirmed sites with a colored sticker to track treatment zones.
Prepare the environment before applying controls. Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum carpets, floors, and upholstery, discarding the vacuum bag or sealing the canister in a plastic bag. Reduce clutter that offers additional harborage.
Physical eradication methods include:
- Steam treatment – Apply steam at 100 °C directly to seams, folds, and crevices; heat penetrates up to 2 cm, killing insects and eggs instantly.
- Mattress encasements – Install zippered covers rated for bed‑bug protection; keep them sealed for at least one year to ensure any survivors die.
- Cold exposure – Place infested items in a freezer (‑18 °C) for a minimum of 72 hours; low temperature halts development and kills all life stages.
When chemical intervention is necessary, select products registered for indoor use against bed bugs. Follow these guidelines:
- Apply a residual insecticide to baseboards, behind wall panels, and inside wall voids using a low‑pressure sprayer.
- Use a fast‑acting aerosol for immediate knockdown on visible insects; avoid excessive fogging that can contaminate food surfaces.
- Rotate active ingredients (e.g., pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, desiccant dusts) to prevent resistance buildup.
- Wear protective gloves and a mask, and ventilate the area after application.
After treatment, implement a monitoring program. Place passive interceptors under each leg of the bed and furniture; replace them weekly and record captures. Conduct follow‑up inspections at 7‑day, 14‑day, and 30‑day intervals, retreating any resurgence with the same protocol.
Maintain preventive measures: keep bedding and clothing sealed, inspect second‑hand items before introduction, and routinely vacuum high‑risk zones. Consistent execution of these steps will eradicate the infestation and minimize the likelihood of re‑infestation.