What should be done if there are bed bugs at home? - briefly
Identify and seal all infested areas, wash bedding and clothing in hot water, vacuum thoroughly, and apply a certified insecticide or contact a licensed pest‑control professional for eradication. Follow up with regular inspections and preventive measures such as mattress encasements and clutter reduction.
What should be done if there are bed bugs at home? - in detail
If bed bugs are found in a dwelling, immediate, systematic action is required to prevent spread and eradicate the infestation.
First, confirm the presence. Look for live insects, shed skins, and small rust‑colored spots on bedding or furniture. Use a flashlight to inspect seams, mattress edges, headboards, and cracks in walls or baseboards.
Second, isolate the affected area. Remove all linens, clothing, and fabrics from the infested space. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag and launder on the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate; dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be washed should be dry‑cleaned or sealed in bags for a minimum of two weeks, during which the insects will die without a blood meal.
Third, reduce hiding places. Vacuum floors, carpets, upholstered furniture, and mattress surfaces thoroughly. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the home. Use a stiff brush to scrub seams and crevices, then wipe the area with a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol or a commercial insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control.
Fourth, apply targeted treatments. Options include:
- Heat treatment: Raise room temperature to 50 °C (122 °F) for several hours using professional equipment; heat penetrates deep into voids where bugs hide.
- Cold treatment: Expose infested items to temperatures below –18 °C (0 °F) for at least four days.
- Chemical insecticides: Apply aerosol or dust products containing pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or desiccants according to label directions, focusing on cracks, baseboards, and mattress folds.
- Encasements: Install certified mattress and box‑spring covers that lock insects inside, preventing re‑infestation.
Fifth, monitor progress. Place sticky traps around bed legs, furniture, and entry points. Replace traps weekly and record captures to gauge effectiveness. Repeat inspections and treatments at two‑week intervals until no evidence of activity remains.
Finally, prevent recurrence. Reduce clutter, seal cracks in walls and flooring, and maintain regular vacuuming. When traveling, inspect hotel beds, keep luggage off the floor, and launder clothes immediately upon return. By following these steps methodically, the infestation can be eliminated and the risk of future outbreaks minimized.