What should you do with laundry after bedbugs? - briefly
Wash all clothing, bedding, and linens in hot water (≥120 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes to eradicate insects and eggs. Seal any items that cannot be laundered in an airtight bag for 3–6 months before disposal or professional treatment.
What should you do with laundry after bedbugs? - in detail
When a bed‑bug infestation is confirmed, every item of clothing, bedding, and fabric must be treated to eliminate hidden insects and eggs. The process involves three phases: containment, decontamination, and verification.
First, isolate all washable textiles. Place them in sealed plastic bags or airtight containers before moving them to the laundry area. This prevents live bugs from escaping and re‑infesting other rooms.
Second, wash the contents using the hottest settings your fabrics can tolerate. Recommended parameters are:
- Water temperature: at least 120 °F (49 °C); higher temperatures are preferable if the material permits.
- Cycle length: a full wash and an extra rinse to ensure thorough saturation.
- Detergent: a standard laundry detergent; adding a non‑ionic surfactant can improve penetration.
After washing, transfer the items directly to a dryer set on high heat. Dry for a minimum of 30 minutes; most experts advise 45 minutes to guarantee that all life stages are destroyed. For delicate items that cannot endure high heat, place them in a sealed bag and expose them to a professional heat‑treatment service or a portable chamber maintaining 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 30 minutes.
Third, for non‑washable or heat‑sensitive materials, employ alternative methods:
- Encase items in a certified bed‑bug mattress or garment cover for 90 days, the period required for eggs to hatch and die.
- Use a cold‑tolerant insecticide labeled for fabrics, following the product’s safety instructions precisely.
- Vacuum the surface of the item thoroughly, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
Finally, inspect all cleaned items before returning them to the living space. Look for any signs of live insects or shed skins. If any doubt remains, repeat the washing and drying cycle or consider professional pest‑control treatment.
By adhering to these steps—secure containment, high‑temperature laundering, and careful handling of sensitive items—laundry can be safely reclaimed without risking a resurgence of the infestation.