What should be done with clothing if bedbugs appear? - briefly
«Isolate all clothing, wash in water ≥ 60 °C, and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes». «Unwashable items should be sealed in airtight bags and stored for several months to allow any pests to perish».
What should be done with clothing if bedbugs appear? - in detail
When an infestation is detected, garments must be isolated immediately. Place all clothing in sealed plastic bags to prevent insects from escaping.
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Heat treatment
• Wash at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F).
• Use a dryer on the highest setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat of this magnitude kills all life stages. -
Cold treatment
• For items that cannot endure high temperatures, seal in airtight bags and freeze at –18 °C (0 °F) or lower for a minimum of 72 hours. -
Chemical options
• Apply an insecticide specifically labeled for fabric use, following manufacturer instructions.
• Ensure thorough ventilation after treatment. -
Discarding
• If heat or cold methods are impractical, consider discarding the garment in a sealed bag and disposing of it in a sealed trash container. -
Post‑treatment handling
• Store cleaned or treated clothing in new, sealed containers.
• Avoid re‑introducing items into the living area until the entire dwelling has been treated. -
Preventive measures
• Store seasonal clothing in airtight containers.
• Inspect luggage and clothing after travel, applying heat or freezing as needed.
Following these steps eliminates bedbug presence on apparel and reduces the risk of re‑infestation.