What should you do about bed ticks? - briefly
Remove infested bedding and wash it in water above 60 °C, then vacuum the mattress, frame, and surrounding area thoroughly. Apply a certified tick control product or contact a pest‑management professional for additional treatment.
What should you do about bed ticks? - in detail
Bed ticks, also known as poultry mites, can quickly compromise sleeping areas and cause skin irritation. Immediate action reduces the risk of spreading and prevents further bites.
First, isolate the infested bedding. Strip sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Place all textiles in sealed plastic bags, then launder at the highest temperature the fabric tolerates (≥ 60 °C/140 °F) for at least 30 minutes. Dry on a hot setting. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed for a minimum of two weeks, a period that exceeds the tick’s life cycle and ensures mortality.
Second, treat the sleeping surface. Vacuum the mattress, box spring, and surrounding floor thoroughly, discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed container. Apply a residual acaricide approved for indoor use, following label directions precisely. Focus on seams, folds, and crevices where ticks hide. Allow the product to dry before re‑covering the mattress.
Third, address the environment. Wash curtains, wall hangings, and nearby upholstery using the same high‑heat protocol. Steam‑clean carpets and upholstered furniture for at least five minutes at 100 °C (212 °F). If infestation persists, consider professional pest‑control services that employ licensed chemicals or heat treatments.
Fourth, monitor for recurrence. Inspect the bed and surrounding area weekly for at least one month. Look for live ticks, shed skins, or signs of bites. Maintain a routine of weekly vacuuming and periodic laundering of bedding.
Finally, prevent re‑infestation. Use mattress encasements with zippered closures that are tick‑proof. Keep the bedroom free of clutter that offers hiding places. Regularly wash and dry bedding at high temperatures. If pets or livestock are present, treat them with appropriate ectoparasite products to eliminate cross‑contamination sources.