What should I do if bed bugs appear in a sofa? - briefly
If bed bugs are found in a couch, isolate the furniture, vacuum all seams, and launder removable fabrics in water above 60 °C. Then hire a licensed pest‑control service to treat the infestation and advise on preventing re‑occurrence.
What should I do if bed bugs appear in a sofa? - in detail
If bed bugs are discovered in a sofa, act promptly to contain and eradicate the infestation.
First, confirm the presence. Look for live insects, dark‑brown spots (fecal stains), tiny white eggs, or shed skins along seams, cushions, and under the upholstery.
Next, isolate the furniture. Move the sofa away from walls and other furniture, and cover it with a tightly sealed plastic sheet or mattress encasement designed to block insects. Keep pets and children away from the area.
Then, remove all removable covers, cushions, and slipcovers. Wash each item in hot water (minimum 120 °F/49 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat for 30 minutes or longer. For non‑washable fabrics, place them in a sealed bag and freeze at –4 °F (‑20 °C) for at least four days.
Proceed with mechanical treatment. Use a high‑efficiency vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to suction insects and eggs from seams, crevices, and foam. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container. Follow with a steamer set to 212 °F (100 °C) to penetrate deep into the foam and fabric. Move the steam head slowly, ensuring each area receives at least 10 seconds of exposure.
Apply chemical control if needed. Choose a label‑approved insecticide for indoor use on upholstered furniture. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely: apply a thin, even coating to all surfaces, avoid oversaturation, and allow the product to dry completely before re‑assembling the sofa. Use only products containing pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, or silica‑based dusts, and wear protective gloves and a mask during application.
If the infestation persists after these measures, contact a licensed pest‑management professional. Request a comprehensive inspection, a treatment plan that may include residual sprays, heat treatment (raising room temperature to 120 °F/49 °C for several hours), or fumigation, and a guarantee of follow‑up visits.
Finally, adopt preventive habits. Inspect new or second‑hand furniture before purchase, regularly vacuum upholstered pieces, and keep the home clutter‑free to reduce hiding places. Rotate cushions and periodically repeat the vacuum‑steam routine to detect early signs of re‑infestation.