What should I do if bedbugs appear, and how can I get rid of them at home? - briefly
If you discover bedbugs, immediately isolate the infested area, wash all bedding and clothing in hot water, vacuum and steam‑clean surfaces, and apply a certified insecticide or heat treatment; for severe infestations, contact a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should I do if bedbugs appear, and how can I get rid of them at home? - in detail
If an infestation is discovered, act immediately to limit spread. Begin with a thorough inspection: examine seams of mattresses, box‑spring edges, headboards, nightstands, and any fabric that contacts the sleeping area. Use a flashlight and a fine‑toothed comb to locate live insects, shed skins, or dark specks of excrement.
- Isolate the affected bed. Remove bedding, wash all items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes. Place clothing and linens that cannot be laundered in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve the pests.
- Declutter the room. Discard unnecessary items, especially those made of fabric or cardboard, as they provide hiding places. Seal discarded objects in double‑layered bags before disposal.
- Vacuum every surface, paying special attention to mattress seams, furniture crevices, and floor cracks. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it outside the home.
- Apply a residual insecticide approved for indoor use. Choose a product labeled for bedbug control, follow label directions precisely, and treat cracks, baseboards, and the undersides of furniture. For those preferring non‑chemical options, use a steam cleaner set to ≥ 100 °C; steam penetrates fabric and kills insects on contact.
- Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bedbug‑proof covers. Keep the encasements on for at least one year, ensuring no gaps.
- Install interceptors under each leg of the bed frame. These devices trap bugs attempting to climb up or down, providing ongoing monitoring.
- Repeat the entire process after 7–10 days, then again after 30 days, to address any newly hatched insects that escaped initial treatment.
Preventive measures include:
- Keeping luggage elevated and away from walls when traveling.
- Inspecting second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors.
- Maintaining a clutter‑free environment to reduce hiding spots.
- Regularly washing and drying bedding on high heat.
Persistent infestations may require professional pest‑control services equipped with heat‑treatment units or fumigation. Prompt, systematic action combined with diligent follow‑up eliminates the problem and minimizes the risk of recurrence.