How to treat laundry for bedbugs at home? - briefly
Wash all infested fabrics in water at least 120 °F (49 °C) and dry them on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; immediately place the cleaned items in sealed plastic bags to prevent re‑infestation. For items that cannot tolerate heat, seal them in airtight containers for 90 days or treat with a registered insecticide according to label directions.
How to treat laundry for bedbugs at home? - in detail
Treating clothing and linens that may contain bedbugs requires a systematic approach to ensure complete eradication and prevent re‑infestation.
Begin by separating items into three categories: washable fabrics, non‑washable fabrics, and items that can withstand high‑temperature drying.
For washable fabrics, follow these steps:
- Load the washing machine to its maximum capacity without overfilling, allowing water and detergent to circulate freely.
- Use the hottest water setting the machine permits, typically at least 60 °C (140 °F). High temperature kills all life stages of the insect.
- Add a regular laundry detergent; for added efficacy, include a small amount of bleach for white or color‑fast items.
- After the wash cycle, transfer the laundry to a dryer set to the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Dry heat is essential for any eggs that survived washing.
If items cannot be laundered, isolate them in sealed plastic bags for at least 14 days, the duration of the bedbug life cycle. After this period, expose the sealed packages to direct sunlight for several hours, as ultraviolet radiation and heat can reduce survivability.
For fabrics that can tolerate it, consider steam treatment. Use a handheld steamer to apply saturated steam (minimum 100 °C) to all surfaces, paying special attention to seams, folds, and pockets. Steam penetrates fabric layers and eliminates hidden insects.
After processing, inspect all cleaned items for signs of remaining activity. Any discovered bugs should be disposed of immediately in a sealed bag and discarded in an outdoor trash container.
Finally, prevent future contamination by storing laundered clothing in sealed containers, avoiding placement on the floor, and regularly cleaning washing machine lids and dryer vents with disinfectant.
These measures, applied consistently, remove bedbugs from household laundry and reduce the risk of re‑introduction.