How to remove bedbugs from clothing yourself? - briefly
Wash the clothing in water at least 49 °C (120 °F) for 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; the combination of heat and moisture kills all life stages. If washing is not feasible, place the items in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for four full days before laundering.
How to remove bedbugs from clothing yourself? - in detail
Eliminating bed‑bug infestations from garments requires a systematic approach that combines heat, chemical treatment, and proper handling to prevent re‑contamination.
Begin by sorting laundry. Separate infested items from clean clothing, and place each category in sealed plastic bags to contain any insects during transport. Avoid shaking or crushing fabrics, which can disperse eggs.
Heat treatment
- Wash all affected pieces in the hottest water the fabric can tolerate (generally 60 °C/140 °F or higher).
- Immediately follow with a high‑temperature dryer cycle lasting at least 30 minutes; dryer heat penetrates seams and kills both bugs and eggs.
- For items that cannot be machine‑washed, use a portable steam cleaner set to a temperature of 100 °C/212 °F, applying steam evenly across surfaces for a minimum of 5 minutes per item.
Chemical options
- Apply a residual insecticide spray labeled for indoor use on fabrics, following the manufacturer’s dosage and safety instructions.
- For delicate fabrics, use a laundry additive containing permethrin or pyrethrin, adding it to the wash cycle according to product guidelines.
- After treatment, allow garments to air dry in a well‑ventilated area for at least 24 hours before storage.
Containment and prevention
- Store cleaned clothing in airtight containers or zip‑lock bags.
- Inspect closets and drawers for cracks or crevices; seal gaps with caulk or tape.
- Rotate seasonal garments regularly, and launder them before re‑use.
Final verification
- Examine each piece under a bright light, looking for live insects, shed skins, or eggs.
- If any signs persist, repeat the heat cycle or re‑apply the insecticide.
Following these steps eliminates bed‑bugs from clothing without professional assistance and minimizes the risk of recurrence.