How to launder a mattress to remove bedbugs? - briefly
Use a high‑temperature steam cleaner (above 130 °F) on the entire surface, then vacuum thoroughly and place the mattress in an airtight bag for at least 72 hours to starve any remaining insects.
How to launder a mattress to remove bedbugs? - in detail
Eliminating bed‑bug infestations from a mattress requires a systematic cleaning process that combines mechanical removal, heat treatment, and chemical control.
Begin by removing all bedding, pillows, and mattress toppers. Place these items in sealed plastic bags and transport them to a laundry facility capable of using water temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F). Wash the linens for a minimum of 30 minutes; the heat will kill insects and eggs embedded in fabrics.
Next, isolate the mattress in a well‑ventilated area away from furniture. Use a high‑efficiency vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to extract visible bugs and shed skins from the surface, seams, and crevices. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container before leaving the room.
Apply a licensed, bed‑bug‑specific insecticide spray that is safe for upholstery. Follow the product label precisely: mist the entire mattress, paying special attention to stitching, tufts, and corners. Allow the chemicals to dry completely, typically 6–8 hours, before proceeding.
Heat treatment is the most reliable method for killing hidden stages. Rent or purchase a portable steam cleaner that produces steam at 100 °C (212 °F). Move the nozzle slowly across the mattress, maintaining contact for at least 10 seconds per spot. Overlap passes to ensure full coverage. After steaming, let the mattress air‑dry for several hours; the residual heat will continue to destroy any remaining organisms.
Finally, protect the cleaned mattress with an encasement certified to be bed‑bug‑proof. Seal the cover using the provided zipper and inspect it regularly for signs of reinfestation.
Key steps in summary
- Launder all removable textiles at ≥ 60 °C.
- Vacuum thoroughly with a HEPA‑rated unit.
- Apply a labeled insecticide and allow proper drying time.
- Steam the entire surface, maintaining ≥ 100 °C for ≥ 10 seconds per area.
- Dry completely, then encase with a certified barrier.
Following this protocol maximizes the likelihood of eradicating the pest from the sleeping surface.