What should you do with laundry bedbugs? - briefly
Wash the contaminated garments in water hotter than 130 °F (54 °C) and dry them on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; then place the items in sealed plastic bags or discard them if the infestation is severe. This eliminates any remaining insects and prevents re‑infestation.
What should you do with laundry bedbugs? - in detail
When clothing shows signs of infestation, isolate the items immediately to prevent spread. Place them in sealed plastic bags or a dedicated laundry basket that will not be used for other garments.
Wash the contaminated fabrics using the hottest water safe for the material, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher. Add a full‑strength laundry detergent; for extra assurance, include a small amount of an insecticidal soap approved for textile use.
Immediately transfer the washed items to a dryer set on the highest heat setting. Maintain the high temperature for at least 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages of the pest.
If the fabric cannot tolerate hot water or high dryer heat, seal the items in airtight containers for a minimum of 72 hours. Bed bugs cannot survive without a blood meal for more than two weeks, and a sealed environment will starve them.
For items that cannot be laundered or heat‑treated, consider professional pest‑control services. They can apply appropriate insecticides or recommend safe disposal methods, such as sealed trash bags for non‑recoverable clothing.
After treatment, clean the laundry area thoroughly. Vacuum the floor, walls, and any nearby furniture, then discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container. Wipe surfaces with a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol or a registered insecticide spray.
To reduce future risk, store clean clothing in sealed plastic bins, avoid placing garments on the floor, and inspect second‑hand items before adding them to the household. Regularly monitor sleeping areas and furniture for early signs of re‑infestation.