How to treat bed linen for bedbugs? - briefly
Heat the sheets at a minimum of 55 °C for at least 30 minutes or seal them in a freezer at ‑20 °C for 48 hours; both methods kill all stages of the pest. Afterwards, store the linen in airtight containers to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat bed linen for bedbugs? - in detail
Treating infested bed linens requires a systematic approach that eliminates all life stages of the pest. Begin with a thorough inspection to confirm presence on sheets, pillowcases, blankets and mattress covers. Visible insects, shed skins or fecal spots indicate that laundering is essential.
The primary method is high‑temperature washing. Set the machine to the hottest cycle allowed for the fabric, typically 60 °C (140 °F) or higher. Use a regular detergent; additional enzymatic cleaners are unnecessary. After washing, transfer the items to a dryer set to the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 50 °C (122 °F) kills eggs, nymphs and adults.
If fabric cannot withstand high heat, apply a freezing protocol. Place linens in a sealed plastic bag and store in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days. This temperature kills all developmental stages.
Chemical options supplement thermal treatments. Choose a pesticide labeled for fabric use, such as a pyrethrin‑based spray. Apply according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring even coverage on both sides of each item. Allow the recommended drying time before reuse.
After treatment, store clean linens in airtight containers to prevent re‑infestation. Use vacuum‑sealed bags or zip‑lock bags with a moisture‑absorbing packet. Keep containers off the floor and away from walls where pests may crawl.
Summary of steps:
- Inspect all bedding components for signs of infestation.
- Wash on the hottest permissible cycle (≥ 60 °C).
- Dry on high heat for ≥ 30 minutes.
- If heat‑sensitive, freeze at –18 °C for ≥ 4 days.
- Apply fabric‑safe insecticide if required; follow label directions.
- Store in sealed, moisture‑controlled containers.
Regularly rotate bedding and repeat the laundering process every two weeks during an active infestation to break the life cycle.