What should be done with bed bugs? - briefly
Locate infested zones, seal bedding and clothing in plastic, and eliminate clutter to reduce hiding places. Apply professional heat treatment or approved insecticide, wash items at high temperatures, and conduct regular inspections to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done with bed bugs? - in detail
Effective management of a bed‑bug infestation requires a systematic approach that combines detection, containment, treatment, and prevention.
First, confirm the presence of the insects by inspecting seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and cracks in furniture. Look for live insects, shed skins, or dark spotting that indicates fecal matter. Use a flashlight and a magnifying lens to increase accuracy.
Second, isolate the affected area. Remove bedding, clothing, and linens and place them in sealed plastic bags. Wash items at temperatures of at least 60 °C (140 °F) for 30 minutes, then dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, seal them in airtight containers for several weeks to starve the pests.
Third, apply treatment methods. Options include:
- Heat treatment: Raise room temperature to 50–55 °C (122–131 °F) for several hours, ensuring all hiding places are exposed.
- Cold treatment: Freeze infested items at –18 °C (0 °F) for at least four days.
- Chemical insecticides: Use products labeled for bed‑bug control, following label directions precisely. Apply to cracks, crevices, and baseboards, avoiding direct contact with humans and pets.
- Desiccant powders: Apply silica‑gel or diatomaceous earth to voids; particles abrade the insects’ exoskeletons, leading to dehydration.
Fourth, monitor progress. Install discreet interceptors under each leg of the bed to capture wandering bugs and assess ongoing activity. Repeat inspections weekly for at least two months, as eggs may hatch after initial treatment.
Finally, prevent re‑infestation. Encase mattresses and box springs in zippered covers that are certified to block bed‑bugs. Reduce clutter, seal gaps around baseboards and pipes, and maintain regular vacuuming of floors and upholstery. When traveling, inspect hotel rooms, keep luggage off the floor, and wash clothing immediately upon return.
Adhering to these steps eliminates current populations and minimizes the risk of future outbreaks.