What should be done when there are bedbugs in the apartment? - briefly
Immediately isolate the infested area, launder all bedding and clothing in hot water, vacuum thoroughly, and seal items in plastic bags. Then contact a licensed exterminator for professional treatment and follow their guidance to prevent recurrence.
What should be done when there are bedbugs in the apartment? - in detail
If a bed‑bug infestation is discovered in a dwelling, immediate, systematic action is required to eliminate the pests and prevent re‑colonisation.
First, isolate the affected area. Strip the bed of all linens, blankets, and pillows; place each item in sealed plastic bags. Wash fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be dry‑cleaned or placed in a freezer at –18 °C for 72 hours.
Second, treat the surroundings. Vacuum mattresses, box springs, bed frames, headboards, furniture, and floor seams thoroughly. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the building. Use a stiff brush to dislodge eggs from seams and crevices, then wipe the surface with a cloth soaked in a pesticide approved for indoor use against Cimex lectularius. Follow the product label for concentration, exposure time, and safety precautions.
Third, apply residual insecticide. Spray cracks, baseboards, electrical outlets, and any hidden pathways where bugs travel. Choose a formulation that offers long‑lasting activity (e.g., pyrethroids or neonicotinoids) and ensure ventilation during application. Repeat treatment after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs.
Fourth, employ non‑chemical measures. Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bed‑bug-proof covers, sealing them with a zipper that eliminates gaps. Install interceptors under each leg of the bed and furniture to capture wandering insects. Reduce clutter, especially in closets and under beds, to minimise hiding places.
Fifth, monitor progress. Place sticky traps around sleeping areas and inspect them weekly. Record any live catches; a decline over successive weeks indicates successful control. Maintain the cleaning and vacuuming routine throughout the eradication period.
Finally, coordinate with the landlord or property manager. Provide written documentation of the infestation and the steps taken. Request professional pest‑control services if the problem persists after two self‑treatment cycles, as licensed exterminators have access to stronger chemicals and heat‑treatment equipment.
By executing these actions in the prescribed order—containment, sanitation, chemical treatment, physical barriers, ongoing surveillance, and professional collaboration—the infestation can be eradicated efficiently and the risk of recurrence minimised.