What should I do if a bed bug is found in the bed? - briefly
Isolate the mattress, place all linens in sealed bags, wash them at ≥120 °F, and vacuum the surrounding area thoroughly. Contact a licensed pest‑control professional promptly to arrange a targeted treatment.
What should I do if a bed bug is found in the bed? - in detail
If a bed bug appears in your sleeping area, act promptly to prevent spread.
- Isolate the mattress. Pull back bedding, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and wash all items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) followed by a high‑heat dryer cycle.
- Vacuum the mattress, box spring, headboard, and surrounding floor. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outdoors.
- Inspect adjacent furniture, cracks, and baseboards for additional insects or eggs. Mark any infested spots with a colored dot for later reference.
- Apply a bed‑bug‑specific spray or powder to seams, folds, and crevices, following the product label’s safety instructions.
- Encase the mattress and box spring in a certified encasement that zips shut and remains on for at least one year, ensuring no bugs can escape or re‑enter.
- Reduce clutter that offers hiding places; store items in sealed containers.
- Contact a licensed pest‑control professional for a thorough treatment plan, especially if the infestation covers multiple rooms or persists after DIY measures.
Maintain regular monitoring by checking the encasement seams and using interceptor traps under each leg of the bed. Repeat vacuuming and laundering weekly for the next month to catch any survivors. Implement preventive habits such as inspecting secondhand furniture before bringing it indoors and keeping bedding away from walls.