How to treat bedding for ticks? - briefly
Launder all sheets, blankets, and pet bedding in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or hotter, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For items that cannot be washed, freeze them for 48 hours or apply an EPA‑approved acaricide according to the label.
How to treat bedding for ticks? - in detail
Treating bedding that harbors ticks requires thorough cleaning, heat, and, when necessary, chemical intervention. Follow each phase to eliminate all life stages of the parasite.
- Remove all linens, blankets, and pet bedding from the area. Separate items that can be laundered from those that cannot.
- Wash washable fabrics in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C). Use a detergent with enzymatic activity to break down organic material.
- After washing, place items in a dryer on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) kills eggs, larvae, nymphs, and adults.
- For non‑washable items, seal them in a heavy‑duty plastic bag and expose them to direct sunlight for 24 hours. Sunlight and ambient heat raise temperatures to lethal levels for ticks.
- Vacuum the mattress, box spring, and surrounding floor with a HEPA‑rated vacuum. Empty the canister or bag into a sealed container and discard it outside the home.
- Apply an acaricide approved for indoor use to the mattress surface and surrounding area. Follow label instructions precisely, ensuring adequate coverage and ventilation.
- Allow treated surfaces to dry completely before reuse. Re‑cover the mattress with a tick‑proof encasement that features a zippered closure and a fabric barrier rated to block arthropods.
Prevent re‑infestation by maintaining low humidity (below 50 %), regularly washing bedding, and inspecting pets for ticks before they enter sleeping quarters. Continuous monitoring and prompt removal of any detected ticks will sustain a tick‑free environment.