What to clean when bedbugs are being treated? - briefly
Wash bedding, clothing, and curtains in hot water, vacuum mattresses, furniture, and floor seams and discard the vacuum bags, steam‑clean or apply approved insecticide to seams, cracks, and upholstered items, and isolate or discard heavily infested furniture.
What to clean when bedbugs are being treated? - in detail
During an infestation, removal of all potential harborages is essential. Focus first on the sleeping area: strip the mattress, box spring, and any upholstered headboard. Launder all bedding, curtains, and removable fabric covers in hot water (minimum 120 °F / 49 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Vacuum the mattress surface, seams, and surrounding floor, then seal the vacuum bag or container in a plastic bag before discarding.
Next, address furniture and décor. Disassemble bed frames, nightstands, and shelving units. Wipe each component with a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol or a registered insecticide spray, ensuring thorough coverage of joints, cracks, and undersides. For upholstered pieces, steam‑clean using a device that reaches 212 °F (100 °C) or apply a professional heat‑treatment service. Remove and launder removable cushion covers; otherwise, encase the entire item in a certified bedbug‑proof bag for the duration of treatment.
Flooring and carpet require special attention. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and hard‑floor edges, then immediately empty the canister into a sealed container. If carpet removal is feasible, roll it up tightly, seal in a plastic bag, and store away from living spaces. For hard floors, mop with a detergent solution followed by a disinfectant approved for bedbug control.
Personal items and storage spaces must also be processed. Sort clothing, linens, and accessories into three categories: washable, non‑washable, and discard. Washable items follow the same hot‑water protocol as bedding. Non‑washable textiles (e.g., delicate garments, blankets) should be placed in a freezer set at –4 °F (–20 °C) for a minimum of four days to kill all life stages. Items deemed unusable should be sealed in double‑layered bags and disposed of according to local regulations.
Finally, eliminate clutter that creates hiding spots. Remove piles of magazines, books, and cardboard boxes; clean their surfaces with an insecticide spray or heat treatment. After all cleaning steps, conduct a thorough visual inspection to confirm the absence of live insects, eggs, or shed skins before re‑introducing cleaned items into the environment.