What to do about bedbugs? - briefly
Identify and isolate infested areas, then apply high‑temperature treatment or approved insecticides while sealing cracks to block spread. If the problem persists, engage a licensed pest‑control service for comprehensive eradication.
What to do about bedbugs? - in detail
Dealing with a bed‑bug infestation requires a systematic approach that combines identification, containment, elimination, and prevention.
First, confirm the presence of insects by inspecting seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, and nearby furniture. Look for live insects, shed skins, small dark spots (fecal stains), and tiny rust‑colored eggs. Use a flashlight and a magnifying lens to increase accuracy.
Second, isolate the affected area. Strip the bed of all linens, wash them in hot water (minimum 60 °C / 140 °F) and dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes. Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bed‑bug proof covers, sealing them tightly to trap any hidden pests.
Third, treat the environment. Apply a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bugs to cracks, crevices, and baseboards, following manufacturer instructions precisely. For items that cannot be sprayed, use heat treatment: raise room temperature to 50 °C (122 °F) for a minimum of 90 minutes, or employ professional steam‑cleaning devices on upholstery and carpet. Consider cryonite or cold‑temperature (‑20 °C / ‑4 °F) freezing for small objects.
Fourth, monitor progress. Place interceptors under each leg of the bed to capture wandering insects and assess activity. Replace interceptors weekly and record captures to gauge effectiveness. Repeat insecticide applications according to label recommendations, typically after 7–10 days, to target newly hatched bugs.
Fifth, implement long‑term safeguards. Reduce clutter that offers hiding places, seal cracks in walls and flooring, and maintain regular vacuuming with a HEPA‑filter-equipped machine. Inspect second‑hand furniture before introduction, and consider routine professional inspections in high‑risk settings such as multi‑unit dwellings.
If infestation persists after thorough self‑treatment, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Their expertise with advanced tools—such as fumigation, desiccant dusts, and integrated pest‑management protocols—often yields faster, more reliable eradication.
Consistent application of these steps breaks the life cycle, eliminates existing populations, and minimizes the chance of re‑infestation.