How to wash bedding to remove bedbugs? - briefly
Launder all sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in water at 120 °F (49 °C) or hotter, then tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes to kill any insects and eggs. Seal any items that cannot be heated in a freezer at –20 °C (–4 °F) for a minimum of four days.
How to wash bedding to remove bedbugs? - in detail
Cleaning sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors is essential for eradicating bed‑bug infestations. Follow these precise steps to ensure the insects and their eggs are destroyed.
-
Separate items – Gather all bedding that has come into contact with the pests. Include duvet covers, pillow shams, fitted sheets, and any removable mattress pads.
-
Select the hottest safe temperature – Consult care labels; most cotton and polyester fabrics tolerate at least 130 °F (54 °C). For items that can endure higher heat, use 140 °F (60 °C) or hotter. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) kills both adult bugs and eggs within minutes.
-
Load the washing machine – Do not overload; allow water to circulate freely. Add regular detergent; avoid fabric softeners that may mask residues.
-
Run a full‑heat wash cycle – Choose the longest setting with the highest temperature permissible for each fabric. A cycle lasting 30–45 minutes provides sufficient exposure.
-
Dry immediately – Transfer washed items to a dryer set to the highest heat compatible with the material. Run for at least 30 minutes; extended drying (45–60 minutes) guarantees complete mortality.
-
Seal or store cleaned bedding – Place dried items in airtight plastic bags or vacuum‑sealed containers until re‑installation. This prevents re‑infestation from surrounding environments.
-
Treat surrounding surfaces – While laundering, vacuum the mattress, box spring, and bed frame thoroughly. Dispose of vacuum contents in sealed bags. Apply a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control to cracks, seams, and crevices.
-
Re‑cover the bed – Fit freshly laundered mattress encasements, pillow protectors, and fitted sheets. Ensure encasements have zip closures rated for pest protection.
-
Monitor – Inspect bedding daily for live insects or shed skins for two weeks. Repeat washing and drying if any signs persist.
By adhering to these actions, all stages of the bed‑bug lifecycle present in bedding are disrupted, resulting in complete eradication.