I brought a bedbug into the house: what should I do? - briefly
Isolate the affected area, launder all fabrics at high temperature, vacuum thoroughly, and apply an EPA‑registered bed‑bug insecticide. If infestation persists, contact a licensed pest‑management professional for comprehensive treatment.
I brought a bedbug into the house: what should I do? - in detail
When a bedbug is discovered in a dwelling, immediate containment and systematic eradication are essential.
First, confirm the infestation. Examine bedding, mattress seams, headboards, and cracks in furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting. Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to improve visibility.
Second, isolate the affected area. Strip the bed of all linens and place them in sealed plastic bags. Wash fabrics at ≥ 60 °C for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat. Encase the mattress and box spring in a certified bedbug–proof cover, sealing all seams with tape. Vacuum carpets, floorboards, and upholstered surfaces thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag in an external trash container.
Third, apply an integrated pest‑management (IPM) approach:
- Chemical treatment – Select a registered insecticide labeled for bedbugs. Apply according to label directions, targeting cracks, crevices, and baseboards. Rotate active ingredients to prevent resistance.
- Heat treatment – Raise ambient temperature in the room to 45–50 °C for a minimum of 90 minutes, ensuring all hiding places reach the target heat. Use calibrated thermometers to verify uniform exposure.
- Cold treatment – Place infested items in a freezer maintaining ≤ -18 °C for at least 72 hours, effective for small objects that cannot be heat‑treated.
Fourth, monitor progress. Install passive interceptors beneath each leg of the bed and furniture; inspect weekly for trapped insects. Maintain a log of sightings, treatment dates, and product usage.
Fifth, prevent re‑introduction. Inspect all second‑hand items before bringing them indoors; treat or quarantine as necessary. Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding spots. Seal gaps around baseboards, pipes, and electrical outlets with caulk.
Finally, if the infestation persists after multiple cycles of IPM, consider professional extermination services equipped with advanced tools such as vaporized heat chambers or fumigation. Prompt, thorough action eliminates the pest and safeguards occupants’ health.