What should I do with items that contain bedbugs? - briefly
Seal infested items in double‑bagged, airtight containers and either discard them following local pest‑control regulations or arrange professional heat‑treatment. Keep them away from clean spaces to prevent further infestation.
What should I do with items that contain bedbugs? - in detail
Infested belongings require immediate isolation to prevent the pests from spreading. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container, label it, and store it away from sleeping areas.
Recommended actions
- Heat treatment – Expose washable fabrics to temperatures of at least 120 °F (49 °C) for 30 minutes. Use a dryer on high heat or a professional heat chamber for larger items.
- Cold treatment – Freeze non‑washable objects at 0 °F (‑18 °C) for a minimum of four days. Ensure the freezer maintains a constant temperature throughout the period.
- Chemical application – Apply EPA‑registered insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control to hard surfaces and seams. Follow label directions precisely; wear protective gloves and ensure adequate ventilation.
- Vacuuming – Remove visible insects and eggs by vacuuming seams, folds, and crevices. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed trash bag.
- Professional disposal – For heavily infested or valuable items that cannot be treated, arrange for removal by a licensed pest‑management service. Request documentation that the items will be incinerated or otherwise destroyed to eliminate any surviving pests.
- Cleaning and inspection – After treatment, launder all washable textiles on the hottest setting permissible. Inspect each piece for remaining signs of activity before re‑introducing it to the living space.
Preventive measures
- Store cleaned items in sealed containers until the surrounding environment is confirmed free of infestation.
- Reduce clutter to limit hiding places.
- Perform routine inspections of bedding, furniture, and luggage after travel or exposure to potentially infested locations.
By following isolation, targeted treatment, and thorough disposal protocols, contaminated possessions can be rendered harmless and the risk of re‑infestation minimized.