How to sleep with bed bugs when there is nowhere to go? - briefly
«Cover the mattress with a sealed plastic sheet, wear tightly fitted clothing, and use a portable insecticide‑treated net to create a barrier». «Sleep in a well‑ventilated area away from infested furniture, and apply a desiccant powder to exposed skin before lying down».
How to sleep with bed bugs when there is nowhere to go? - in detail
When no other shelter is available, the priority is to create a barrier between the skin and the insects.
Begin by sealing the sleeping surface. Place a mattress encasement that is certified pest‑proof over the mattress and box spring. Cover the entire mattress, including seams, with a zippered liner that can be closed tightly.
Next, treat the bedding. Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water (minimum 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then tumble‑dry on the highest setting for 30 minutes. Store clean linens in sealed plastic bags until use.
Apply a physical shield to the sleeping area:
- Lay a flat, fitted sheet over the encasement, then place a thin sheet of polyethylene or a disposable mattress protector on top.
- Cover the entire bed with a tightly fitted, zippered cover that can be removed without tearing.
- Position a bed net or fine‑mesh canopy over the sleeper’s head and shoulders; secure the edges under the mattress to prevent bugs from entering.
Chemical options complement the physical barrier. Use a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control on the frame, headboard, and surrounding floorboards. Follow label directions precisely, applying only to cracks, crevices, and baseboards. For immediate relief, apply a contact spray directly to visible insects before lying down, allowing the product to dry fully.
Temperature manipulation offers an alternative or adjunct method. If a portable heater or space heater is safe to use, raise the room temperature to at least 45 °C for a minimum of 30 minutes, ensuring the heat reaches the mattress and bedding. Conversely, if a freezer is accessible, place small items (e.g., socks, pillowcases) in a sealed bag and freeze at ‑20 °C for 48 hours before use.
Personal protection reduces the chance of bites. Wear long‑sleeved shirts, long trousers, and socks made of tightly woven fabric. Apply a dermatologist‑approved repellent containing DEET or picaridin to exposed skin, avoiding the face and eyes.
Maintain vigilance after each night. Inspect the mattress seams, headboard, and surrounding furniture for live insects or shed skins. Use a flashlight to examine dark corners and fold‑out sections of the bed. Replace the protective covers weekly, washing them in hot water and re‑encasing the mattress.
«Prevention through isolation, treatment, and temperature control forms a comprehensive strategy for sleeping safely despite an infestation when relocation is impossible».