What should be done after a bed bug treatment of an apartment? - briefly
After the extermination, vacuum and steam‑clean all fabrics, furniture, and crevices, then seal or discard any items that cannot be treated. Maintain a regular inspection schedule and keep the dwelling clutter‑free to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done after a bed bug treatment of an apartment? - in detail
After the extermination process, follow a structured protocol to ensure the infestation does not return.
- Keep all treated areas untouched for the duration specified by the pest‑control professional, typically 24–48 hours. This allows residual insecticide to act fully.
- Inspect adjacent rooms and furniture for any surviving insects. Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to examine seams, mattress tags, and baseboards.
- Launder all bedding, curtains, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be placed in sealed plastic bags for a minimum of two weeks to starve any hidden bugs.
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface thoroughly. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container and dispose of it outside the dwelling.
- Apply a protective barrier spray to cracks, crevices, and other potential harborage sites, following the product’s safety instructions. This creates a secondary deterrent against re‑infestation.
- Reduce clutter throughout the apartment. Remove unnecessary boxes, piles of clothing, and other items that can serve as hiding places.
- Monitor for several weeks using passive traps (e.g., interceptor cups) placed under each leg of the bed and furniture. Check traps weekly and record any captures.
- Schedule a follow‑up inspection with the exterminator to confirm treatment efficacy and to address any residual activity.
Adhering to these measures maximizes the likelihood of a permanent resolution and minimizes the risk of a recurrence.