How to get ticks out of the bed?

How to get ticks out of the bed? - briefly

Strip the sheets and wash them in hot water (≥130 °F), then vacuum the mattress, box spring, and nearby floor and furniture, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister afterward. Apply an approved acaricide to the mattress surface and repeat the cleaning and inspection process weekly until no ticks are detected.

How to get ticks out of the bed? - in detail

Ticks that have settled on bedding must be eliminated promptly to prevent disease transmission and further infestation. The following procedure removes the parasites and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.

1. Strip the bed – Remove all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag to avoid spreading ticks.

2. Launder at high temperature – Wash fabrics in water no colder than 130 °F (54 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat kills all life stages of the tick.

3. Treat the mattress –

   • Vacuum the entire surface, seams, and folds using a nozzle attachment. Discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
   • Apply a licensed acaricide spray approved for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions. Ensure even coverage, especially in crevices.
   • Allow the product to dry completely before reinstalling bedding.

4. Clean surrounding areas – Wash or vacuum curtains, carpet edges, and nearby furniture. If the bedroom floor is carpeted, steam‑clean the carpet or replace sections that show heavy infestation.

5. Inspect and repeat – After 48 hours, re‑examine the mattress and bedding for any surviving ticks. Perform a second vacuuming and repeat the acaricide application if necessary.

6. Prevent future infestations –

   • Keep bedroom windows screened and seal cracks that permit wildlife entry.
   • Use a bed encasement with a tick‑proof zipper.
   • Maintain regular vacuuming of the bedroom and surrounding rooms.
   • Perform quarterly inspections of pets and treat them with veterinarian‑approved tick control products.

By adhering strictly to these steps, all ticks present on the sleeping surface will be eradicated, and the environment will be less hospitable to future colonization.