What should you do if you catch a bedbug? - briefly
Isolate the infested area, wash all bedding and clothing in hot water, and vacuum thoroughly. Then contact a licensed pest‑control professional for inspection and eradication.
What should you do if you catch a bedbug? - in detail
Discovering a bed bug requires immediate, systematic action to prevent infestation spread. Begin by isolating the affected area: remove bedding, clothing, and linens and place them in sealed plastic bags. Wash all items in hot water (minimum 60 °C/140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages.
Next, inspect the mattress, box spring, and surrounding furniture. Use a flashlight to locate live insects, shed skins, and dark spots (fecal stains). Vacuum the entire surface, paying special attention to seams, folds, and crevices. Immediately empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard it in an outdoor trash container.
Apply a targeted insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control to cracks, baseboards, and voids where the insects hide. Follow label directions precisely, wearing protective gloves and ensuring adequate ventilation. For items that cannot be laundered or heated, consider professional heat‑treatment services or encase them in bed‑bug‑proof covers.
After treatment, monitor the space for at least two weeks. Place sticky interceptors beneath each leg of the bed and furniture; replace them weekly to detect any surviving bugs. Repeat vacuuming and inspection every few days during this period.
If signs persist beyond the monitoring phase, enlist a licensed pest‑management professional. They can perform comprehensive inspections, apply residual chemicals, and advise on structural modifications to eliminate hidden harborage sites.
Finally, adopt preventive habits: keep clutter to a minimum, inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors, and regularly wash bedding. Consistent vigilance reduces the risk of re‑infestation.