What should be done with bedding after a bedbug infestation? - briefly
Immediately launder all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress covers in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or hotter, then tumble‑dry on the highest heat for at least 30 minutes. If any item cannot be washed or shows extensive damage, seal it in a plastic bag and discard it to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done with bedding after a bedbug infestation? - in detail
After a bed‑bug outbreak, linens must be isolated, cleaned, and protected from reinfestation. Begin by removing all bedding from the sleeping area and placing each item in a sealed plastic bag. The bag should be airtight to prevent bugs from escaping during transport.
- Heat washing – Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress pads in hot water at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F). Use the longest wash cycle available.
- High‑temperature drying – Transfer the washed items to a dryer set to the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 50 °C (122 °F) kills all life stages of the insect.
- Non‑washable items – For comforters, duvets, and other bulky fabrics that cannot be laundered, place them in a commercial‑grade steam chamber or a portable heat‑treatment unit that reaches 50–60 °C for a minimum of 30 minutes. If steam equipment is unavailable, seal the item in a plastic bag and store it in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) for 4 days; this also eliminates the pests.
- Inspection – After treatment, examine each piece under a bright light, looking for live insects, shed skins, or eggs. Use a magnifying glass if necessary.
- Re‑encasement – Fit the mattress and box‑spring with certified bed‑bug‑proof encasements. Ensure the zip closures are tight and the fabric is smooth, leaving no gaps for bugs to enter.
- Storage – If any items cannot be treated immediately, keep them sealed in airtight containers or heavy‑duty zip‑lock bags. Store the containers in a room that is not currently infested.
When laundering is impossible or the infestation is severe, consider discarding the contaminated bedding. Dispose of it in sealed trash bags and remove the bags from the premises promptly.
Throughout the process, avoid moving untreated linens through clean areas, and refrain from shaking them outdoors, as this can disperse insects. Coordinate with a licensed pest‑control professional to confirm that the environment is fully cleared before re‑introducing treated bedding.