The whole apartment is infested with bed bugs, what should be done? - briefly
Engage a licensed exterminator right away, wash all linens and fabrics in hot water, vacuum thoroughly, and seal cracks or crevices to limit movement. Discard severely infested items and follow the professional’s treatment schedule, including any required follow‑up inspections.
The whole apartment is infested with bed bugs, what should be done? - in detail
A full‑scale bed‑bug invasion in a residential unit requires immediate, systematic action. Begin by confirming the presence of insects: inspect mattresses, box springs, headboards, furniture seams, baseboards, and electrical outlets. Look for live bugs, shed skins, and dark spotting (fecal stains). Document findings with photographs for reference and potential legal use.
Next, isolate the affected area to prevent spread. Remove bedding and wash at 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat. Place all removable fabrics in sealed plastic bags until treatment is complete. Vacuum carpets, curtains, and upholstered surfaces thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
Proceed to chemical and non‑chemical eradication:
- Apply a labeled, EPA‑registered insecticide to cracks, crevices, and bed‑bug harborages. Follow label directions precisely; avoid over‑application.
- Use a portable heat‑treatment device to raise infested zones to 50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of 90 minutes, ensuring temperatures reach all hidden layers.
- Deploy a professional‑grade steam cleaner on mattresses, sofas, and bed frames, maintaining steam temperature above 100 °C (212 °F) for at least 20 seconds per spot.
- Consider diatomaceous earth or silica‑based powders in voids; these desiccants act slowly but effectively when insects contact them.
Consult a licensed pest‑control specialist. Certified technicians can perform whole‑unit heat fumigation, cryonite treatment, or integrated pest‑management programs that combine chemicals, heat, and monitoring devices. Verify the provider’s credentials and request a written work plan.
After treatment, implement a monitoring phase lasting 4–6 weeks:
- Install interceptor traps beneath each leg of the bed and furniture to capture any surviving insects.
- Check traps weekly; record catches and replace traps as needed.
- Repeat vacuuming and laundering of linens after each monitoring interval.
Prevent recurrence by eliminating entry points and reducing clutter:
- Seal gaps around baseboards, door frames, and plumbing penetrations with caulk or expanding foam.
- Install protective mattress encasements rated for bed‑bugs; ensure zip closures are intact.
- Keep clothing and linens in sealed containers; wash new items before use.
- Limit movement of infested items to other rooms; transport in sealed bags.
If the landlord or property manager is responsible for pest control, notify them in writing, attach photographic evidence, and request prompt remediation under local housing codes. Retain copies of all correspondence and receipts for professional services, as they may be required for compensation claims or tenancy disputes.
Finally, maintain vigilance. Conduct periodic inspections, especially after travel or receiving second‑hand furniture. Early detection reduces the need for extensive remediation and safeguards the living environment.