What should I do if bed bugs have infested a mattress? - briefly
Immediately isolate the bed, launder all linens in hot water, apply a certified heat‑treatment or mattress encasement, and enlist a professional pest‑control service for comprehensive eradication. Avoid unapproved insecticides and monitor the area for several weeks to ensure the infestation is fully resolved.
What should I do if bed bugs have infested a mattress? - in detail
If you discover bed‑bug activity on a mattress, act immediately to prevent spreading. First, confirm the infestation by inspecting seams, tufts, and the box spring for live insects, shed skins, or dark spots. Use a flashlight and a magnifying glass for accuracy.
Next, isolate the bed. Remove all bedding, wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on the highest setting. Place the mattress in a sealed plastic enclosure or cover it with a zippered, bed‑bug‑proof encasement that remains on for at least one year.
Proceed with treatment. Options include:
- Heat – Rent a portable heater or use a professional service to raise the mattress temperature to 50 °C–55 °C for 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages.
- Cold – If the mattress can be moved, place it in a freezer at –18 °C for 72 hours; this also eliminates insects.
- Insecticide – Apply a registered, residual spray specifically labeled for bed bugs, targeting seams, folds, and the box spring. Follow label directions precisely to avoid health risks.
- Steam – Use a steamer delivering steam above 100 °C, moving slowly over the surface and into crevices.
After treatment, clean the surrounding area. Vacuum the floor, baseboards, and furniture, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed bag. Seal any cracked walls or gaps where bugs could hide.
Monitor continuously. Place interceptors under each leg of the bed and set up sticky traps around the perimeter. Check them weekly for at least three months. If any signs reappear, repeat the chosen treatment method.
Finally, prevent re‑infestation by maintaining clutter‑free surroundings, regularly washing bedding, and inspecting any secondhand furniture before bringing it into the bedroom.