How to prepare an apartment for bedbug treatment? - briefly
Clear all linens, clothing, and personal items from the unit, sealing them in airtight bags; vacuum carpets, cracks, and upholstery, then cover furniture and mattresses with protective plastic sheeting before treatment.
How to prepare an apartment for bedbug treatment? - in detail
Preparing a dwelling for a bed‑bug eradication operation requires systematic action to eliminate hiding places, protect belongings, and ensure the treatment’s effectiveness.
Remove all personal items from floors, beds, and upholstered furniture. Place clothing, linens, and small objects in sealed plastic bags or airtight containers. Wash fabrics at the highest temperature the material tolerates; dry them on a hot setting for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be placed in freezer units capable of reaching –20 °C (–4 °F) for a minimum of four days.
Clear the area around the treatment zone. Discard or relocate clutter such as books, magazines, and decorative pieces. Slide furniture away from walls to expose baseboards and cracks. Vacuum carpets, mattresses, and upholstered surfaces thoroughly, then empty the vacuum bag into a sealed bag and dispose of it outside the building.
Seal cracks, crevices, and gaps in walls, flooring, and furniture using caulk or expandable foam. Apply double‑sided tape or specialized bed‑bug interceptors under bed legs and furniture legs to trap any remaining insects.
Protect pets by moving them to a secure, untreated location or confining them in a separate room with all doors closed. Ensure that all food items are stored in sealed containers or removed from the premises.
Notify neighboring units and building management of the scheduled treatment to coordinate access and prevent cross‑contamination. Provide a written list of items that will remain on‑site and any special instructions for the pest‑control professional.
After treatment, follow the provider’s post‑application guidelines. Maintain a clean environment, monitor for signs of activity, and repeat inspections according to the recommended schedule.