What should you do after bedbug extermination? - briefly
Immediately vacuum all areas, steam‑clean mattresses and upholstery, and launder bedding and clothing at ≥ 60 °C. Then seal cracks, install bed‑bug interceptors, and conduct regular inspections to confirm eradication.
What should you do after bedbug extermination? - in detail
After the pest control treatment, begin by removing all bedding, curtains, and clothing from the treated area. Place each item in sealed plastic bags, then launder on the hottest setting the fabric can tolerate. Dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes to kill any surviving insects or eggs.
Next, vacuum every surface thoroughly. Use a high‑efficiency filter, empty the canister into a sealed bag, and discard it outdoors. Pay special attention to seams, folds, and crevices in furniture, baseboards, and wall hangings. Follow the vacuuming with a damp‑cloth wipe on hard surfaces to collect any dislodged debris.
Inspect all hiding places for signs of activity. Look for live bugs, shed skins, or dark spotting. Use a flashlight to examine mattress seams, box‑spring corners, and the undersides of chairs. Record any findings in a log, noting location, date, and observed stages.
Implement preventative measures to reduce the risk of re‑infestation:
- Encase mattresses and box springs in certified, zip‑pered covers; keep them sealed for at least one year.
- Reduce clutter that could serve as shelter.
- Seal cracks and gaps around baseboards, wall outlets, and plumbing fixtures with caulk or expanding foam.
- Install interceptors on bed legs to trap wandering insects.
- Maintain low humidity levels (below 50 %) using dehumidifiers or proper ventilation.
Set up a monitoring system. Place sticky traps or passive monitors around the perimeter of the treated zone and inspect them weekly for at least three months. Replace traps promptly if they become saturated.
If any new activity is detected, contact the exterminator immediately for a follow‑up inspection. Provide them with the inspection log and trap results to guide targeted retreatment.
Finally, keep records of all actions, including receipts for laundry, vacuum bag disposal, and purchased preventive products. This documentation assists in warranty claims and supports any future pest‑control assessments.