What should be done when there are bedbugs? - briefly
Isolate the infested space, contact a licensed pest‑control service for treatment, and discard heavily contaminated items. Wash all linens and clothing at ≥60 °C, vacuum seams and furniture meticulously, and seal cracks or crevices to block further movement.
What should be done when there are bedbugs? - in detail
When bedbugs are detected, immediate containment and eradication are essential. Begin by isolating the affected sleeping area to prevent spread to adjacent rooms. Remove all bedding, curtains, and clothing and place them in sealed plastic bags before laundering on the hottest cycle the fabric can tolerate; dry‑heat drying for at least 30 minutes adds extra protection.
Next, inspect furniture, mattress seams, and wall cracks for live insects, shed skins, or small dark spots (fecal matter). Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to dislodge hidden specimens. Vacuum thoroughly, focusing on seams, folds, and crevices; empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
Apply a suitable insecticide that is labeled for bedbug control. Follow the product label precisely: spray seams, baseboards, and any identified hideouts, allowing the recommended drying time before re‑entering the room. For items that cannot be treated with chemicals—such as electronics or delicate fabrics—consider professional heat‑treatment or freezing (–18 °C for at least 72 hours).
After treatment, monitor the area continuously. Place interceptor traps under each leg of the bed and furniture; check them weekly for captured insects. Repeat vacuuming and targeted insecticide applications every 7‑10 days for at least three cycles, as eggs may hatch after the initial treatment.
Finally, reduce future risk by encasing mattresses and box springs in certified bedbug‑proof covers, sealing cracks in walls and furniture, and limiting the introduction of second‑hand items without thorough inspection. Maintaining a clean, clutter‑free environment diminishes hiding places and supports long‑term control.