How to treat a bed for ticks? - briefly
Launder all bedding in water hotter than 130 °F, vacuum the mattress, box spring, and surrounding frame, then apply an EPA‑registered acaricide spray or powder according to label directions. Repeat the treatment weekly for two weeks to capture any emerging ticks.
How to treat a bed for ticks? - in detail
Ticks can survive in bedding if they attach to a host or fall onto the mattress after a blood meal. Effective eradication requires a combination of mechanical, chemical, and preventive measures.
First, strip the bed of all linens, pillowcases, and blankets. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag and wash in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 10 minutes. Follow with a high‑heat dryer cycle of 30 minutes to kill any remaining organisms.
Next, vacuum the mattress, box spring, and surrounding frame thoroughly. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter, moving slowly to dislodge hidden ticks. After vacuuming, immediately discard the bag or empty the canister into a sealed container and dispose of it outdoors.
Apply an approved acaricide to the mattress surface. Choose a product labeled for indoor use on fabrics and follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions precisely. Allow the treated area to dry completely before re‑covering.
For the bed frame and headboard, wipe all crevices with a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol or a diluted bleach mixture (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). Rinse with clean water and dry.
Finally, protect the sleeping area with a tick‑proof encasement that fully seals the mattress and box spring. Ensure zippers or closures are intact and inspect regularly for damage.
Summary of steps
- Wash and dry all bedding at high temperature.
- Vacuum mattress and frame with HEPA filtration; discard vacuum contents safely.
- Treat mattress with a labeled acaricide; let dry fully.
- Clean frame and headboard with alcohol or diluted bleach; dry.
- Install a tick‑proof encasement and monitor for integrity.
Regular inspection of pets, use of tick repellents, and maintaining a clean sleeping environment reduce the likelihood of re‑infestation.