How to remove bedbugs from furniture? - briefly
Apply a professional heat‑treatment or residual insecticide to the furniture, then vacuum all seams and crevices and seal any cracks. Dispose of severely damaged pieces or enclose them in airtight bags for several weeks to kill remaining insects.
How to remove bedbugs from furniture? - in detail
Bedbug infestations in upholstered items become apparent through tiny reddish‑brown spots, live insects, or shed skins found on seams, cushions, and frames. Early detection prevents spread to adjacent furniture and bedding.
Begin by removing all removable covers, cushions, and loose fabric. Place each piece in a sealed plastic bag labeled with the date of inspection. Vacuum every surface, paying special attention to creases, folds, and stitching; immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty its canister into a sealed container.
Apply heat treatment to items that can withstand temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Use a commercial steamer or a portable heater, moving the nozzle slowly to ensure deep penetration. For items that tolerate low temperatures, seal them in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days.
When chemical control is required, select a dust formulated for bedbug control (e.g., silica‑based or diatomaceous earth). Lightly dust seams, joints, and hidden cavities, then brush excess away. For exposed surfaces, use a residual spray labeled for indoor use, applying a thin, even coat to all reachable areas. Follow label instructions regarding ventilation and re‑entry times.
Consider supplemental measures:
- Apply a thin layer of diatomaceous earth to cracks and voids; it desiccates insects on contact.
- Use interceptors or sticky traps beneath furniture legs to monitor activity.
- Limit clutter to reduce hiding places and improve treatment efficacy.
After treatment, inspect the furniture weekly for at least two months. If live insects or new evidence appear, repeat the chosen method. Maintain preventive practices: regularly vacuum, keep fabrics sealed when not in use, and avoid bringing second‑hand upholstered items into the home without thorough inspection and treatment.