What should you do if bedbugs appear in belongings? - briefly
Isolate contaminated items, wash or dry‑clean textiles at ≥ 60 °C, seal non‑washable objects in airtight bags and treat them with heat (≥ 45 °C) or professional fumigation. Discard heavily infested belongings and contact a licensed pest‑control service for inspection and eradication.
What should you do if bedbugs appear in belongings? - in detail
If bedbugs are discovered in personal items, immediate isolation prevents spread. Place affected belongings in sealed plastic bags or containers that can be closed tightly.
For clothing, linens, and fabric accessories, apply high‑temperature laundering. Wash at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on the hottest setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should undergo heat treatment in a dryer or a portable heat chamber reaching 50 °C (122 °F) for several hours.
Non‑launderable items may be frozen. Store in a freezer at –18 °C (0 °F) or lower for at least four days to kill all life stages.
Vacuum all surfaces, seams, and crevices of the contaminated objects. Empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard immediately.
Inspect and clean surrounding areas. Use a steam cleaner on mattresses, upholstered furniture, and hard surfaces; steam must reach a temperature of at least 100 °C (212 °F).
If infestation persists or items are heavily infested, consult a licensed pest‑management professional. Professionals can apply approved insecticides, monitor for re‑infestation, and advise on safe disposal of irreparable items.
Dispose of severely damaged or heavily infested objects by sealing them in double‑bagged, heavy‑duty plastic and placing them in an outdoor trash container away from the dwelling.
After treatment, maintain vigilance. Regularly examine belongings, especially after travel or contact with public spaces. Keep clutter to a minimum and store items in airtight containers to reduce future risk.