How to remove bedbugs from a mattress at home? - briefly
Treat the mattress with a high‑temperature steam cleaner, then seal it in a certified bed‑bug‑proof encasement. Apply a targeted insecticide to seams, repeat after seven days, and inspect regularly to confirm eradication.
How to remove bedbugs from a mattress at home? - in detail
Bedbugs hide in the seams, folds and stitching of a mattress, making early detection essential. Look for rust‑colored spots, tiny white eggs, or live insects along the edges and under the covers.
Prepare the sleeping area before treatment. Remove all bedding and wash at 60 °C or higher; dry on the hottest setting for at least 30 minutes. Place the mattress away from walls to allow airflow. Vacuum the entire surface with a hose attachment, discarding the bag or emptying the canister into a sealed container.
Apply a combination of physical and chemical methods:
- Heat exposure – use a portable steamer producing steam at 100 °C; move slowly over seams, corners and tufts, allowing steam to penetrate for 10–15 seconds per spot. Alternatively, rent a portable heater and raise room temperature to 50 °C for several hours, ensuring the mattress does not warp.
- Desiccant powder – spread a thin layer of food‑grade diatomaceous earth over the mattress; leave for 48 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. The powder abrades the exoskeleton of insects, causing dehydration.
- Encasement – fit a zippered mattress cover certified to trap bedbugs. Seal all seams; keep the cover on for at least 12 months to starve any remaining insects.
- Targeted insecticide – apply a residual spray labeled for indoor use on fabrics and mattresses, following label directions precisely. Avoid overspray on sleeping surfaces; allow the product to dry completely before replacing bedding.
Monitor progress after treatment. Place sticky traps around the bed frame and inspect weekly for live insects. Repeat vacuuming and heat application if any activity persists. Maintain a clean environment: wash linens weekly, declutter the bedroom, and keep the mattress away from walls and furniture to reduce re‑infestation risk.