What should be done if bedbugs are found on clothing? - briefly
When bedbugs appear on garments, isolate them in sealed bags, then launder in water at least 120 °F (49 °C) and tumble‑dry on the highest heat setting for 30 minutes. Afterward, keep the cleaned items sealed, inspect the surrounding area, and apply a professional heat or chemical treatment to eliminate any remaining insects.
What should be done if bedbugs are found on clothing? - in detail
When insects are detected on garments, immediate isolation prevents spread. Place each affected item in a sealed plastic bag, label it, and keep it separate from clean laundry.
- Wash at the highest temperature the fabric tolerates, preferably 60 °C (140 °F) or above. Use a heavy‑duty detergent and a full cycle.
- After washing, dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 50 °C (122 °F) kills all life stages of the pest.
- For items that cannot be laundered, seal them in a freezer set to –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days. Prolonged freezing eliminates the insects.
- If freezing or laundering is unsuitable, treat the clothing with a labeled insecticide spray that is safe for fabrics. Follow the product’s contact time and safety instructions precisely.
- Inspect each piece after treatment. Use a magnifying lens to examine seams, folds, and hems for live insects or eggs. Repeat washing or freezing if any are found.
- Store cleaned garments in airtight containers or vacuum‑sealed bags to avoid re‑infestation. Include a desiccant or a sachet of diatomaceous earth for added protection.
In parallel, treat the surrounding environment. Vacuum floors, mattresses, and upholstered furniture, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed plastic container. Apply a residual spray to baseboards, cracks, and other harborages. Schedule regular inspections to catch any resurgence early.