If bedbugs appear, what should I do with my clothing? - briefly
Wash all washable items in hot water (≥120 °F) and dry them on high heat for at least 30 minutes; place non‑launderable clothing in sealed plastic bags and freeze them for several days to eliminate any insects.
If bedbugs appear, what should I do with my clothing? - in detail
When bedbugs are detected, treat all garments as potential carriers. Separate items immediately and follow a strict protocol to eliminate insects and prevent re‑infestation.
First, isolate clothing that has been in contact with the infested area. Place each piece in a sealed, resealable plastic bag or a laundry‑grade container with a zip‑lock closure. Label the bags to avoid accidental mixing with clean laundry.
Next, apply heat treatment, the most reliable method. Wash the sealed garments in hot water at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Immediately transfer them to a dryer set on the highest heat setting for another 30 minutes; the combined temperature exposure kills all life stages of the pest. For items that cannot be laundered, use a professional steam‑cleaning service or a portable garment steamer, ensuring the steam reaches a temperature of at least 100 °C (212 °F) for several minutes across the entire surface.
If heat is unsuitable, opt for cold‑temperature freezing. Place sealed garments in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) or lower and maintain that temperature for a minimum of four days. This duration guarantees mortality of eggs, nymphs, and adults.
After treatment, keep the cleaned clothing sealed until the living space has been thoroughly inspected and treated. Do not reintroduce garments into the environment until a professional pest‑management provider confirms that the infestation is resolved.
Finally, establish preventive measures: store off‑season clothing in airtight containers, regularly inspect sleeping areas for signs of infestation, and avoid placing used clothing on beds or upholstered furniture before washing. Consistent adherence to these steps reduces the risk of re‑infestation and protects personal belongings.