How to get rid of mites and bed bugs? - briefly
Eliminate infestations by washing and drying all linens at ≥120 °F (49 °C), vacuuming carpets and upholstery, and applying a certified insecticide or professional heat treatment for at least 30 minutes. Seal cracks, remove clutter, and use passive traps to monitor and prevent re‑infestation.
How to get rid of mites and bed bugs? - in detail
Eliminating mites and bed bugs requires a systematic approach that combines detection, sanitation, chemical or non‑chemical treatment, and ongoing prevention.
First, confirm the presence of the pests. Look for live insects, shed skins, tiny dark spots (feces), or itchy bites on the skin. Use a flashlight to inspect seams, mattress edges, headboards, and cracks in furniture. Capture a specimen in clear tape for accurate identification if needed.
Second, remove infested items from the living area. Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For non‑washable fabrics, place them in a sealed plastic bag and expose them to a dryer on the highest setting for the same duration. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor crevices thoroughly; immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
Third, apply heat or cold treatment to the remaining environment. Portable steam generators that reach 100 °C can penetrate fabric layers and kill all life stages. For items that tolerate low temperatures, place them in a freezer at –18 °C for 72 hours.
Fourth, consider chemical options when heat is insufficient. Use EPA‑registered insecticide sprays or dusts labeled for both mites and bed bugs. Apply according to label directions, focusing on cracks, crevices, bed frames, and baseboards. Rotate products with different active ingredients to prevent resistance.
Fifth, employ natural alternatives if chemical use is restricted. Diatomaceous earth, applied as a thin layer on floors and upholstered surfaces, desiccates insects. Essential‑oil blends containing tea tree, neem, or lavender have limited efficacy and should be used as supplementary measures only.
Sixth, engage professional pest‑control services for severe infestations. Certified technicians can perform whole‑room heat treatment, fumigation, or targeted pesticide applications that exceed DIY capabilities.
Finally, maintain preventive practices. Encase mattresses and pillows in zippered covers designed to block pests. Reduce clutter, seal gaps around baseboards and walls, and keep humidity below 50 % to discourage mite proliferation. Conduct monthly visual inspections and repeat vacuuming to detect early re‑infestation.
By following these steps—identification, thorough cleaning, thermal or chemical eradication, optional natural methods, professional assistance when required, and strict prevention—residents can effectively eradicate mites and bed bugs and keep them from returning.