How to properly remove bedbugs? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum, steam‑treat, and apply a registered insecticide to all infested areas, then wash bedding and clothing on high heat and seal them in plastic bags. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly emerged bugs.
How to properly remove bedbugs? - in detail
Eliminating bedbugs requires a systematic approach that combines inspection, treatment, and prevention.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Remove bedding, curtains, and clothing; place them in sealed bags. Use a bright flashlight to scan seams, mattress tufts, and cracks in furniture. Look for live insects, dark‑brown spots (feces), and shed skins. Mark each infested area with a label to track progress.
Prepare the environment. Wash all removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on the highest setting for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, carpet edges, and floorboards; immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container. Apply a steam cleaner (temperature > 100 °C) to cracks, crevices, and upholstery; steam penetrates hiding places and kills all life stages on contact.
Select an appropriate chemical treatment. Use a registered insecticide labeled for bedbug control, applying it to cracks, baseboards, and voids where insects hide. Follow label directions precisely: dosage, contact time, and safety precautions. For resistant populations, rotate products with different active ingredients to prevent tolerance buildup.
Consider non‑chemical options for hard‑to‑reach spaces. Encase mattresses and box springs in certified encasements, sealing all seams with tape. Place interceptors under each leg of the bed to capture climbing insects and monitor activity. For severe infestations, employ professional heat treatment, raising room temperature to 50–55 °C for several hours; maintain uniform heat to ensure complete mortality.
After treatment, conduct a second inspection after 7–10 days. Repeat vacuuming and steaming if any signs persist. Maintain a clutter‑free environment to reduce hiding places. Seal cracks in walls and floors with caulk, and install door sweeps to block entry points.
Finally, implement ongoing prevention. Inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors. Use protective covers on luggage when traveling, and wash clothing immediately after trips. Regularly monitor interceptors and replace encasements if damaged.
Following these steps in sequence maximizes the likelihood of eradicating bedbugs and prevents re‑infestation.