What should be done if a bedbug is seen? - briefly
Isolate the infested area, vacuum thoroughly, and wash bedding and clothing in hot water, then seal the items in plastic bags for disposal. Contact a licensed pest‑control professional to treat the residence and prevent further spread.
What should be done if a bedbug is seen? - in detail
Spotting a live bed bug requires immediate action to prevent infestation. First, isolate the area. Remove bedding, clothing, and any washable fabrics from the room and place them in sealed plastic bags. Wash items in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all stages of the insect.
Next, conduct a thorough inspection. Examine mattress seams, box springs, headboards, and furniture joints with a flashlight. Use a fine‑toothed comb or tweezers to capture any visible insects and place them in alcohol for identification. Document findings with photographs to aid professional assessment.
After confirming presence, treat the environment. Apply an EPA‑registered insecticide labeled for bed bugs to cracks, crevices, and baseboards, following label instructions precisely. For items that cannot be laundered, use a portable steam cleaner set to a temperature of 100 °C; steam penetrates fabric and eliminates hidden bugs. Consider encasing mattresses and box springs in certified, zippered covers that trap any remaining insects.
Finally, arrange professional pest‑control intervention. A licensed exterminator will employ integrated pest management techniques, which may include heat treatment (raising room temperature to 50 °C for several hours) or fumigation. Schedule follow‑up inspections at two‑week intervals to verify eradication.
Maintain vigilance after treatment. Regularly inspect sleeping areas, vacuum floors and upholstered furniture, and keep clutter to a minimum. Promptly launder any new bedding or clothing that contacts the sleeping environment. Consistent monitoring reduces the risk of re‑establishment.