What in the house should be treated for bed bugs? - briefly
Treat mattresses, box springs, bed frames, headboards, nearby furniture, baseboards, cracks, crevices, and upholstered items throughout the home.
What in the house should be treated for bed bugs? - in detail
Bed‑bug control must focus on every location where the insects can hide, feed, or reproduce. The following items and areas demand direct treatment or thorough cleaning:
- Mattress surfaces, including the top, sides, and seams. Apply a certified insecticide or encase the mattress in a zippered cover that is labeled for bed‑bug protection.
- Box springs and bed frames. Spray joints, cracks, and any fabric upholstery; consider removing fabric‑covered headboards for separate treatment.
- Pillows, cushions, and removable fabric covers. Wash at 120 °F (49 °C) or dry‑clean; otherwise, treat with a residual spray approved for fabric.
- Bedding and linens. Launder in hot water and tumble dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes; follow with a residual spray on the mattress if needed.
- Furniture with fabric upholstery, including sofas, armchairs, and recliners. Vacuum thoroughly, then treat seams, cushions, and hidden folds with an appropriate insecticide.
- Carpets and rugs, especially those bordering the bed. Vacuum intensively and spray edges and backing where bugs may reside.
- Baseboards, cracks, and crevices in walls or floors. Apply a residual spray directly into these voids, ensuring penetration into concealed spaces.
- Electrical outlets, picture frames, and wall hangings. Remove covers, vacuum, and treat the interior surfaces.
- Luggage, backpacks, and travel bags. Empty contents, vacuum interiors, and spray the interior with a contact insecticide; store in sealed plastic bags after treatment.
- Clothing and stored textiles. Wash or dry‑clean; for items that cannot be laundered, place in sealed bags and treat with a residual spray before storage.
In addition to direct treatment, reduce clutter to eliminate additional hiding places, and maintain a regular vacuuming schedule with a HEPA‑equipped vacuum. Re‑inspect all treated zones after two weeks and repeat applications according to the insecticide label to break the life cycle and prevent resurgence.