How to properly treat clothing against bedbugs? - briefly
Wash all garments in hot water (≥120 °F/49 °C) for at least 30 minutes and dry them on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes to eliminate all life stages of bedbugs. For items that cannot be laundered, seal them in airtight bags and either subject them to professional heat treatment or freeze them at –4 °F (–20 °C) for several days.
How to properly treat clothing against bedbugs? - in detail
Treating garments for bedbug infestations requires a systematic approach that eliminates all life stages of the insect and prevents re‑infestation.
Begin with a thorough visual inspection. Separate any items that show signs of infestation—live insects, shed skins, or dark spots. Place suspect pieces in sealed plastic bags to contain possible movement during the next steps.
Thermal methods
- Wash fabrics in hot water at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes.
- Immediately transfer washed items to a dryer set on high heat (≥ 55 °C / 130 °F) and run for a full 30‑minute cycle. The combination of hot water and high‑temperature drying kills eggs, nymphs, and adults.
Cold‑treatment
- For delicate or non‑machine‑washable items, seal them in airtight bags and place them in a freezer capable of reaching –18 °C (0 °F) or lower. Maintain this temperature for a minimum of 72 hours; this duration ensures complete mortality of all developmental stages.
Chemical options
- Apply an EPA‑registered insecticide formulated for fabrics, following the label’s dosage and safety instructions. Spray evenly on the interior and exterior surfaces, then allow the product to dry completely before storage or reuse.
- For heavily infested items that cannot be laundered, consider a professional dry‑cleaning service that uses approved pest‑control solvents.
Isolation and storage
- After treatment, store clean garments in new, sealable plastic containers with zip‑locks. Include a desiccant packet to reduce humidity, which discourages future bedbug activity.
- Avoid placing treated clothing on beds, sofas, or other upholstered surfaces until the container is opened in a verified pest‑free environment.
Preventive measures
- Keep closets and drawers organized to minimize hiding spots.
- Regularly vacuum storage areas, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed bag afterward.
- Inspect luggage and travel clothing before returning home; wash or freeze any items that may have been exposed during trips.
By combining thorough inspection, high‑temperature laundering, controlled freezing, targeted chemical application, and strict isolation, garments can be effectively cleared of bedbugs and remain protected against future incursions.