How to treat a house against bedbugs? - briefly
Combine high‑heat treatment of infested areas with targeted insecticide sprays and mattress‑encasement covers, then vacuum, steam‑clean, and launder all fabrics at 120 °F. Conduct weekly inspections for a month and seal cracks and crevices to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat a house against bedbugs? - in detail
Treating a home for bedbugs requires systematic inspection, targeted eradication, and ongoing monitoring.
Begin with a thorough survey. Examine seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and bed frames. Use a flashlight to spot live insects, shed skins, or dark spots of feces. Extend the search to upholstered furniture, cracks in walls, baseboards, and behind picture frames. Mark confirmed infested zones with tape to focus treatment.
Select an appropriate control method. Options include:
- Heat treatment: Raise interior temperatures to 50 °C (122 °F) for at least 90 minutes. Heat penetrates hidden areas, killing all life stages. Use professional equipment to maintain uniform temperature and avoid damage to heat‑sensitive items.
- Cold treatment: Expose infested objects to –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days. This method works for items that can be placed in a freezer or a cold chamber.
- Chemical application: Apply EPA‑registered insecticides labeled for bedbug control. Follow label directions precisely, covering cracks, crevices, and the underside of furniture. Rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance.
- Encasements: Install mattress and box‑spring covers rated for bedbugs. Seal all seams with a zipper that closes fully. This isolates any remaining insects and prevents re‑infestation.
Implement an integrated approach:
- Declutter the space. Remove unnecessary items, especially those stored under the bed or in closets.
- Launder all washable fabrics at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, then dry on high heat for 30 minutes.
- Vacuum floors, carpets, and upholstered surfaces thoroughly. Empty the vacuum bag into a sealed container and discard it outdoors.
- Apply the chosen treatment method to all identified hotspots. For chemical sprays, treat each outlet, switch plate, and hidden crevice.
- Seal cracks, gaps, and voids in walls, baseboards, and flooring with caulk or expanding foam to reduce hiding places.
After the initial round, schedule follow‑up inspections every two weeks for six weeks. Re‑treat any areas where live bugs or new evidence appear. Maintain a clean environment: keep bedding folded, vacuum regularly, and monitor with passive traps placed near bed legs and furniture.
Consistent application of these steps eliminates the infestation and minimizes the likelihood of recurrence.