What to do if someone has had bedbugs? - briefly
Thoroughly clean, heat‑treat, or discard infested bedding, clothing, and furniture, then apply a registered pesticide or engage a licensed exterminator. Monitor the area for several weeks and repeat treatment if any insects are detected.
What to do if someone has had bedbugs? - in detail
If a person discovers a bed‑bug infestation, immediate containment is essential. Separate the affected sleeping area, remove all bedding and clothing, and place each item in sealed plastic bags to prevent insects from spreading.
- Wash fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C / 140 °F) for at least 30 minutes.
- Dry on high heat for a minimum of 30 minutes; heat kills all life stages.
- Vacuum mattresses, box springs, furniture, and floor surfaces thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
After laundering, treat the sleeping environment. Encase mattresses and box springs in certified bed‑bug‑proof covers, sealing all seams. Reduce clutter that could harbor insects, and steam‑clean upholstered items at temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F). Apply a residual insecticide labeled for bed‑bug control to cracks, baseboards, and voids, following label directions precisely.
When DIY measures are insufficient, engage a licensed pest‑management professional. Request a comprehensive inspection to locate hidden populations, then authorize either chemical treatment, heat treatment (raising interior temperatures to 50–55 °C / 122–131 °F for several hours), or a combination. Professionals can also provide documentation for landlord or insurance purposes.
Post‑treatment monitoring is critical. Deploy passive interceptor traps under each leg of the bed and inspect weekly for several months. Repeat vacuuming and laundering of any newly discovered items. Maintain records of trap counts to verify eradication.
Prevent future infestations by:
- Using encasements on all mattresses and pillows.
- Inspecting hotel rooms and second‑hand furniture before use.
- Regularly checking seams, folds, and headboards for live insects or shed skins.
- Keeping luggage off the floor and sealing it during travel.
Adhering to these steps maximizes the likelihood of complete elimination and minimizes the risk of re‑infestation.