How to kill all bedbugs? - briefly
Apply high‑heat methods (laundry at 120 °F/49 °C, steam, or professional heat chambers) and a registered residual insecticide to all hiding spots, then repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs. Seal and vacuum infested areas, disposing of vacuum contents promptly to prevent re‑colonization.
How to kill all bedbugs? - in detail
Eliminating a bed‑bug infestation requires a systematic approach that combines physical removal, chemical treatment, and environmental control.
Begin with thorough inspection. Identify all infested areas: seams of mattresses, box‑spring frames, headboards, furniture cracks, baseboards, and any fabric that contacts the sleeping surface. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to locate live insects, shed skins, and dark spotting.
Physical removal steps:
- Strip the bed. Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Vacuum mattresses, box springs, furniture, and floor coverings with a HEPA‑filter equipped vacuum. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or canister in a plastic bag and discard it outdoors.
- Apply a high‑temperature steam cleaner (≥ 100 °C) to seams, folds, and crevices. Steam for at least 20 seconds per spot to ensure penetration.
- Place encasement covers on mattresses and box springs that are certified to be bed‑bug proof; keep them on for at least one year to trap any surviving insects.
Chemical treatment steps:
- Select a registered insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control (e.g., pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or desiccant powders). Follow label instructions precisely regarding dosage, application method, and safety precautions.
- Apply insecticide to cracks, baseboards, and voids where insects hide. Use a fine mist or dust as appropriate for the product.
- Treat upholstered furniture and luggage with a residual spray, ensuring coverage of all stitching and hidden pockets.
- After application, keep the treated area unoccupied for the period specified on the product label (typically 4–8 hours). Ventilate thoroughly before re‑entry.
Thermal and cold methods:
- Raise room temperature to 50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of 90 minutes using portable heaters; monitor with calibrated thermometers to confirm uniform heat distribution.
- For items that cannot tolerate heat, expose them to –18 °C (0 °F) for at least 4 days in a freezer capable of maintaining the temperature consistently.
Monitoring and follow‑up:
- Install interceptor traps under each leg of the bed and furniture to capture wandering insects and assess treatment efficacy.
- Repeat vacuuming and steam treatment weekly for four weeks to address newly hatched nymphs.
- Conduct a second chemical application after two weeks, respecting the re‑treatment interval indicated on the label.
Preventive measures:
- Keep clutter to a minimum; store clothing in sealed plastic containers.
- Inspect second‑hand furniture before introduction into the home.
- Use bed‑bug‑proof encasements continuously.
By integrating these actions—rigorous cleaning, targeted insecticide use, controlled temperature exposure, and ongoing monitoring—complete eradication can be achieved.