What should you do when you discover bedbugs in the house? - briefly
Seal the infested rooms, wash all bedding and clothing in hot water, and vacuum thoroughly. Immediately contact a licensed pest‑control professional to assess the situation and apply a targeted eradication treatment.
What should you do when you discover bedbugs in the house? - in detail
If you locate bedbugs in your residence, begin with a rapid confirmation. Examine mattress seams, box‑spring folds, headboard, nightstand joints, and any upholstered furniture. Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens; adult insects are about 5 mm long, reddish‑brown, and shaped like an apple seed. Record the exact spots where insects or their dark‑colored excrement appear.
Next, isolate the affected area to prevent further migration. Strip the bed of all linens, pillowcases, and blankets. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag and transport it to the hottest setting of a dryer (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 30 minutes. For non‑washable items, consider professional heat‑treatment services. Vacuum carpets, floorboards, and cracks, immediately discarding the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed container.
After removal, treat the environment with appropriate insecticides or non‑chemical methods. Apply a residual spray labeled for bedbug control to crevices, baseboards, and furniture frames, following label directions precisely. Consider using diatomaceous earth or silica gel in hidden spaces; these desiccants cause insects to dehydrate. Repeat applications according to product recommendations, typically every 7–10 days, until no new activity is observed.
Engage a licensed pest‑management professional promptly. Provide them with inspection findings, photographs, and a list of treated items. Request an integrated pest‑management plan that combines chemical, heat, and monitoring techniques. Verify that the company follows local regulations and offers a guarantee for follow‑up visits.
Finally, adopt preventive habits to reduce the risk of re‑infestation. Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bedbug‑proof covers, wash all bedding weekly in hot water, and inspect second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors. Regularly check seams and joints, especially after travel or storage, and maintain a clutter‑free environment to eliminate hiding places.