How to wash bed linen to remove bedbugs? - briefly
Launder infested sheets in water at 60 °C (140 °F) or hotter and tumble‑dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes to eradicate all life stages. Keep the cleaned linens sealed in airtight bags until the surrounding environment is verified as pest‑free.
How to wash bed linen to remove bedbugs? - in detail
Effective elimination of bed‑bug infestations from bedding requires a systematic laundering process. Begin by separating all contaminated items—sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers—from non‑infested laundry. Inspect each piece for visible insects or eggs and place them in a sealed plastic bag before transport to the washing area.
- Temperature selection – Set the washing machine to the highest safe temperature for the fabric, typically 60 °C (140 °F) for cotton and polyester blends. Heat at this level kills all life stages of the pest.
- Detergent usage – Add a full‑dose of enzymatic detergent to break down organic residues that attract insects. For added efficacy, include a small amount of a non‑ionic surfactant or a laundry sanitizer approved for high‑temperature cycles.
- Cycle length – Choose a wash program lasting at least 30 minutes. Longer cycles increase exposure time to lethal heat.
- Rinse – Perform a double‑rinse sequence to remove detergent remnants, which could otherwise provide a food source for surviving bugs.
- Drying – Transfer the washed items immediately to a dryer set at 70 °C (158 °F) for a minimum of 20 minutes. The combined heat of washing and drying ensures complete eradication.
- Post‑process handling – Store cleaned linens in sealed, airtight containers until the surrounding environment is verified as bug‑free. Avoid placing them on surfaces that may have been contaminated.
If a garment cannot tolerate high temperatures, employ an alternative method: place the item in a sealed bag and expose it to a professional‑grade steamer delivering steam at 100 °C (212 °F) for at least five minutes per surface. Follow with a cold‑water rinse and air‑dry in direct sunlight for several hours, as ultraviolet exposure further reduces survivability.
Finally, repeat the laundering routine for all bedding items weekly during an active infestation and after any suspected re‑introduction. Consistent application of high‑heat washing and drying eliminates the pest and prevents resurgence.