How to prepare an apartment for the use of cold fog against bedbugs? - briefly
Clear all bedding, clothing, and movable belongings from the floor and store them in sealed plastic bags; cover furniture, electronics, and vents with disposable tarps. Seal cracks, gaps, and openings with caulk or tape, and turn off or block ventilation to keep the fog contained.
How to prepare an apartment for the use of cold fog against bedbugs? - in detail
Before applying a cold‑fog treatment, clear the living space of all personal belongings that could be damaged by moisture or chemicals. Remove bedding, curtains, upholstery, and laundry; seal them in airtight bags or store them in a climate‑controlled area. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and floor seams thoroughly, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent re‑infestation.
Inspect every room for cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, baseboards, and window frames. Seal these passages with caulk or expanding foam to limit the fog’s escape and ensure concentration remains effective. Pay special attention to furniture joints, mattress seams, and the undersides of sofas, as these are common harborage sites.
Cover or protect electrical outlets, switches, and any equipment that could be compromised by condensation. Use plastic sheeting or waterproof tape to create a barrier around sensitive devices. Disconnect and relocate portable electronics, then store them in sealed containers.
Arrange furniture to maximize exposure: pull beds, dressers, and cabinets away from walls, creating a clear path for the fog to circulate. Ensure that nothing blocks vents, air returns, or ceiling fans, which aid in distributing the aerosol uniformly.
Prepare ventilation for post‑treatment airing. Close interior doors, but keep external windows and doors sealed until the fog dissipates. After the prescribed exposure period, open windows and activate fans to exchange indoor air with fresh outside air, reducing residual chemicals to safe levels.
Finally, follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines regarding personal protective equipment, exposure time, and disposal of waste materials. Document the process, noting dates, product specifications, and areas treated, to maintain a record for future inspections or follow‑up actions.