What do bedbugs look like and how should they be sprayed? - briefly
Adult bedbugs are flat, oval, reddish‑brown insects about 4–5 mm long, resembling apple seeds; nymphs are smaller and paler. Effective control uses a residual pyrethroid spray applied to seams, cracks, and hidden crevices, with a repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched bugs.
What do bedbugs look like and how should they be sprayed? - in detail
Bedbugs are small, oval insects measuring 4–5 mm in length, roughly the size of an apple seed. Their bodies are flat when unfed and become swollen and reddish‑brown after a blood meal. The dorsal surface is smooth, lacking wings, with six visible legs and two antennae. Color varies from light tan to deep mahogany, darkening as they digest blood. Nymphs resemble adults but are lighter and smaller, undergoing five molts before reaching maturity.
Effective chemical control requires selecting an insecticide formulated for indoor use and approved for bedbug eradication. Products containing pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or desiccant dusts (silica gel, diatomaceous earth) are common. Application steps:
- Remove clutter and launder all bedding, curtains, and clothing at ≥ 60 °C or dry‑clean them.
- Vacuum mattresses, box springs, furniture seams, and floor cracks; immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister.
- Apply the spray to all potential harborages: mattress seams, headboard crevices, baseboard joints, electrical outlet covers, and behind wallpaper. Use a fine mist to coat surfaces without oversaturating.
- Treat cracks and voids with dust formulations, ensuring the powder penetrates deep recesses.
- Allow the product to dry according to label directions before re‑occupying the area; repeat treatments after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs.
Safety measures include wearing gloves, a mask, and eye protection; ventilating the room during and after application; and keeping children and pets away until the insecticide has cured. Integrated pest management—combining chemical treatment with heat exposure (≥ 50 °C for several hours) or steam—enhances control and reduces the likelihood of resistance. Regular inspections after treatment confirm elimination and guide any necessary follow‑up applications.