What should you do with a blanket and pillow after a bed bug infestation? - briefly
Wash the blanket and pillow in water of at least 120 °F (49 °C) and dry them on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; if the items cannot tolerate those temperatures, place them in a sealed plastic bag and discard them.
What should you do with a blanket and pillow after a bed bug infestation? - in detail
After a bed‑bug outbreak, the blanket and pillow must be handled to eliminate every life stage of the insect. Follow these steps:
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Isolate immediately – Place the items in sealed, heavy‑duty plastic bags before moving them. This prevents insects from crawling onto other surfaces during transport.
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Wash at high temperature – Launder the blanket and pillow on the hottest cycle the fabric allows, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher. Use a long rinse to remove any residues.
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Dry with intense heat – Transfer the items to a dryer set to the maximum heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 120 °F (49 °C) kills eggs, nymphs, and adults that survive washing.
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Inspect for damage – After drying, examine seams, stitching, and fabric layers. If tears, holes, or extensive wear are visible, discard the items in a sealed bag to avoid hidden insects.
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Apply a secondary treatment if needed – For items that cannot withstand high‑heat cycles, consider professional heat‑treatment services or a certified pest‑control product labeled for fabrics. Follow the product’s instructions precisely.
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Store safely – If the blanket or pillow will be reused later, keep it in a zip‑top, airtight container or a bed‑bug‑proof encasement until the entire environment is declared clear.
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Document the process – Record wash dates, temperatures, and any additional treatments. This log assists pest‑control professionals in verifying that all textile items have been properly addressed.
By sealing, washing at the highest safe temperature, drying with sustained heat, inspecting for damage, and, when necessary, employing professional heat‑treatment, you ensure that the blanket and pillow no longer harbor any bed‑bug remnants.