What should be done if bedbugs appear in the apartment, and how can they be eliminated? - briefly
Immediately verify the presence of bedbugs, strip and launder all bedding and clothing at ≥ 60 °C, seal mattresses with protective encasements, and vacuum all cracks and crevices. Then hire a licensed pest‑control professional to apply approved insecticides, repeat treatment as instructed, and maintain regular inspections to ensure complete eradication.
What should be done if bedbugs appear in the apartment, and how can they be eliminated? - in detail
Bedbugs detected in a residence require immediate verification, isolation of infested zones, and systematic eradication.
First, confirm the presence by inspecting seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, baseboards, and upholstered furniture for live insects, shed skins, or small dark spots. Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to collect specimens for identification; the species is often referred to as «Cimex lectularius».
Second, isolate the problem area. Strip bedding, wash all fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered, pest‑proof covers that remain sealed for a minimum of one year. Vacuum carpets, floor cracks, and furniture thoroughly; immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water.
Third, apply treatment methods. Options include:
- Chemical control – Apply EPA‑registered insecticide sprays or dusts to cracks, crevices, and furniture frames, following label instructions precisely.
- Heat treatment – Raise ambient temperature in the affected rooms to 50 °C–55 °C and maintain for 4–6 hours; professional equipment ensures uniform heat distribution.
- Cold treatment – Expose infested items to temperatures below –17 °C for at least 72 hours; suitable for items that cannot tolerate heat.
- Integrated pest management – Combine chemical, thermal, and mechanical measures, monitor with sticky traps, and repeat applications at 7‑day intervals to disrupt the life cycle.
Fourth, conduct post‑treatment monitoring. Place adhesive traps near suspected hideouts for two weeks; any new captures indicate residual activity and necessitate additional intervention.
Finally, implement preventive practices. Reduce clutter, seal cracks in walls and flooring, install protective covers on all sleeping surfaces, and schedule periodic inspections, especially after travel or acquisition of second‑hand furniture. Consistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and maintains a pest‑free environment.