How to kill bedbugs in belongings? - briefly
Wash all fabrics in water at least 60 °C (140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes. For non‑washable items, treat with a registered insecticide, apply steam, or freeze at –18 °C (0 °F) for several days.
How to kill bedbugs in belongings? - in detail
Eliminating bed‑bug infestations from personal possessions requires a systematic approach that combines physical removal, heat treatment, and chemical control where appropriate.
First, isolate items that can be laundered. Wash clothing, bedding, and washable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C / 140 °F) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes. Heat destroys all life stages of the insect.
Second, treat non‑washable objects. Place small items (toys, shoes, books) in sealed plastic bags and expose them to a portable heater or a commercial dryer bag that reaches 55–60 °C for a minimum of 90 minutes. For larger items (mattresses, sofas), rent a professional‑grade steam cleaner that delivers steam at 100 °C and apply it evenly across seams, folds, and crevices.
Third, employ freezing when heat is impractical. Seal items in airtight bags and store them in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) for at least four days. This temperature kills eggs, nymphs, and adults.
Fourth, apply residual insecticide only after thorough cleaning. Choose a product labeled for bed‑bug control on fabrics and follow label directions precisely. Use a fine‑mist applicator to treat the undersides of furniture, luggage interiors, and cracks where insects hide. Avoid over‑application to prevent damage to delicate materials.
Fifth, monitor progress. After each treatment cycle, inspect items with a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens. Look for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting (fecal stains). Repeat heat or freeze cycles if any signs persist.
Finally, prevent re‑infestation. Store cleaned items in sealed, zip‑lock containers or vacuum‑sealed bags. Keep luggage off the floor when traveling, and inspect hotel rooms before unpacking. Regularly vacuum floors and upholstery, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed bag outside the home.
By integrating laundering, controlled temperature exposure, targeted chemicals, and vigilant follow‑up, personal belongings can be rendered free of bed‑bug populations.