If bedbugs bite, how can you get rid of them? - briefly
Remove them by washing all linens in hot water, vacuuming seams and cracks, sealing belongings in plastic, and applying a registered insecticide or hiring a professional heat‑treatment service. Repeat the procedure weekly for several weeks to interrupt the life cycle.
If bedbugs bite, how can you get rid of them? - in detail
Bedbug bites indicate an active infestation that requires rapid intervention.
Identify the problem by inspecting seams, mattress tags, headboards, and cracks in furniture for live insects, shed skins, or dark spots of feces. Use a flashlight and a magnifying lens; place a white sheet under the bed to collect any falling bugs for verification.
Immediate actions reduce population and limit spreading:
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuum mattresses, box springs, carpet edges, and surrounding floor areas; discard the vacuum bag or seal the canister immediately.
- Isolate the mattress with a zippered encasement designed to trap insects.
Chemical control options include:
- Pyrethroid‑based sprays applied to cracks, crevices, and the underside of furniture; repeat according to label instructions.
- Residual aerosol foggers for larger rooms, ensuring proper ventilation and occupant evacuation during treatment.
- Insect growth regulators that disrupt molting cycles, used in conjunction with adulticides for comprehensive coverage.
Non‑chemical methods provide alternatives or supplemental protection:
- Expose infested items to temperatures above 50 °C for a minimum of 30 minutes, using professional heat chambers or portable heaters.
- Apply steam (≥ 100 °C) directly to seams, folds, and baseboards; maintain steam flow for at least 10 seconds per spot.
- Spread diatomaceous earth in thin layers along baseboards and furniture legs; leave for several days before vacuuming.
When DIY measures fail or infestation is extensive, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. The specialist will conduct a thorough assessment, implement integrated pest‑management protocols, and schedule follow‑up visits to verify eradication.
After successful elimination, maintain a preventive routine: keep clutter to a minimum, regularly inspect new second‑hand furniture before introduction, and perform periodic vacuuming and laundering of bedding. Consistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and protects occupants from further bites.