What should be done in an apartment after a bedbug treatment? - briefly
After the extermination, thoroughly vacuum all surfaces, launder bedding and clothing at high temperatures, and seal cracks or crevices with appropriate fillers. Continue monitoring for several weeks with interceptors or traps, and maintain strict housekeeping to prevent reinfestation.
What should be done in an apartment after a bedbug treatment? - in detail
After the chemical or heat application, maintain high ventilation for at least 24 hours to disperse residual fumes. Do not wash or wipe treated surfaces until the label‑specified waiting period expires, typically 48 hours, to allow the product to act fully.
Vacuum all floors, mattresses, and upholstered furniture with a HEPA‑rated unit. Immediately seal the vacuum bag or empty canister into a disposable plastic bag and discard it outdoors. Follow vacuuming with steam cleaning on items that can withstand temperatures of 120 °F (49 °C) or higher; steam penetrates crevices and kills remaining insects.
Launder all removable fabrics—bedding, curtains, clothing—using the hottest water safe for the material, then dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, place them in sealed polyethylene bags for at least two weeks to starve any hidden insects.
Install monitoring devices such as interceptor cups under bed legs and passive traps in corners. Check these tools weekly for several months; any new captures indicate residual activity and may require a follow‑up treatment.
Seal cracks, gaps, and crevices in walls, baseboards, and furniture with caulk or appropriate sealants. Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding places, and store infrequently used belongings in airtight containers.
Maintain communication with the pest‑control provider: request a written report of the treatment, confirm that all recommended post‑treatment steps have been followed, and arrange for a final inspection to verify eradication.