What should be done with bedbugs in an apartment at home independently? - briefly
First, strip the bedroom of linens, curtains, and clothing, launder them in water hotter than 60 °C and dry on high heat, then vacuum all surfaces, seams, and crevices, discarding the vacuum bag afterward. Next, treat the area with a registered insecticide or professional‑grade heat method, repeat the application after 7–10 days, and seal any cracks or gaps to block future entry.
What should be done with bedbugs in an apartment at home independently? - in detail
Identify the infestation. Examine mattresses, box springs, headboards, seams of furniture, and cracks in walls. Use a flashlight and a magnifying glass to locate live insects, shed skins, and dark‑brown spots of excrement. Record the areas where activity is confirmed.
Contain the problem. Strip the bed of all linens and wash them in water hotter than 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Place the items in sealed plastic bags before transport to the dryer. Encase the mattress and box spring in a zippered, bed‑bug‑proof cover that remains fitted for a minimum of one year.
Remove clutter. Eliminate cardboard boxes, piles of clothing, and other items that provide hiding places. Vacuum floors, carpets, and upholstered furniture thoroughly, paying special attention to seams and crevices. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister with hot, soapy water.
Apply treatment. Use a contact insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control on cracks, baseboards, and the undersides of furniture. Follow the label’s dosage and safety instructions precisely. For residual protection, apply a dust formulation (e.g., silica gel or diatomaceous earth) in voids where insects travel.
Employ heat. Raise the temperature of infested items to at least 50 °C (122 °F) for 90 minutes, or use a professional‑grade portable heater to treat rooms. Heat penetrates hiding spots that chemicals may miss and kills all life stages.
Monitor progress. Install passive traps (interceptor cups) beneath each leg of the bed and furniture. Check traps weekly, recording any captures. Continue treatment cycles until no new insects appear for at least 30 days.
Prevent re‑infestation. Seal cracks in walls, baseboards, and around plumbing. Maintain regular vacuuming and laundering of bedding. Inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors. Limit travel luggage exposure by keeping suitcases off the floor and inspecting them upon return.
Document each step, noting dates, products used, and observations. A systematic record supports verification of success and guides any necessary follow‑up actions.