What should be done with bed linen if it contains bedbugs? - briefly
Wash the infested bedding in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry it on high heat for at least 30 minutes; if the fabric cannot tolerate such temperatures, seal it in a plastic bag and discard or treat it with a professional pest‑control service.
What should be done with bed linen if it contains bedbugs? - in detail
If bedding is found to be infested with bedbugs, immediate isolation and thorough treatment are required.
First, remove all contaminated items from the sleeping area. Place sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and any washable fabrics in sealed plastic bags to prevent insects from spreading.
Next, launder the textiles at the highest temperature the fabric can tolerate. Use water of at least 60 °C (140 °F) and a hot dryer cycle of 60 °C for a minimum of 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages of the pest.
For items that cannot withstand high heat, apply a professional-grade insecticide approved for fabrics. Follow the product label precisely, ensuring adequate ventilation and protective gear.
After treatment, store the cleaned linens in sealed, zip‑lock bags until the infestation is confirmed eradicated. Consider using a bedbug‑proof encasement for mattresses and pillows, which also protects future bedding.
If any piece shows persistent damage, staining, or evidence of live insects after washing and drying, discard it in a sealed bag and dispose of it according to local pest‑control regulations.
Finally, inspect the entire bedroom. Treat the mattress, box spring, and surrounding furniture with steam (minimum 100 °C) or a certified bed‑bug spray. Vacuum seams and cracks, then empty the vacuum canister into a sealed container.
These steps eliminate the current infestation and reduce the risk of re‑colonization.