What should be done with clothing after bedbug treatment? - briefly
All garments must be laundered in hot water (≥60 °C) and dried on high heat for at least 30 minutes, or, if washing is impractical, placed in a sealed bag and sent for professional heat‑treatment. Afterwards, keep the clothing in airtight containers to avoid reinfestation.
What should be done with clothing after bedbug treatment? - in detail
After a bed‑bug eradication process, garments must be managed to prevent re‑infestation and to verify that any surviving insects are eliminated.
First, separate all clothing that was present in the treated area from items that remained untouched. Place each batch in a sealed, breathable bag (e.g., a zip‑lock or mesh laundry bag) to avoid cross‑contamination during handling.
Washing
- Use the hottest water the fabric can tolerate, typically 120 °F (49 °C) or higher.
- Add a normal detergent; a small amount of laundry‑grade disinfectant may be included if the label permits.
- Run a full wash cycle; do not shorten the program.
Drying
- Transfer washed items to a dryer set on the highest heat setting compatible with the material.
- Maintain the dryer temperature for at least 30 minutes; higher‑heat cycles (≥130 °F / 54 °C) are preferred because bed‑bug eggs and nymphs cannot survive prolonged exposure.
- For delicate fabrics that cannot be tumble‑dried, place them in a sealed bag and expose them to a professional heat‑treatment chamber or a portable steam unit for a minimum of 30 minutes at 140 °F (60 °C).
Inspection
- After drying, examine each piece under a bright light, looking for live insects, shed exoskeletons, or fecal spots.
- Use a magnifying glass for thoroughness, especially on seams, pockets, and folds.
Storage
- Store cleared garments in airtight containers or vacuum‑sealed bags until the treatment environment is confirmed pest‑free.
- Label containers with the treatment date and inspection status for future reference.
Disposal
- If any item shows signs of infestation after washing and drying, discard it in a sealed trash bag and remove it from the premises promptly.
- For heavily infested or non‑washable items (e.g., shoes, coats), consider professional heat‑treatment services or, when necessary, incineration.
Preventive measures
- Keep newly laundered clothing off the floor; use elevated racks or shelves.
- Avoid re‑packing garments into previously infested drawers or closets without first treating those spaces with heat or approved insecticides.
Following these steps ensures that clothing no longer serves as a reservoir for bed‑bugs and supports the overall success of the eradication effort.