What to do when there are bedbugs at home? - briefly
Immediately isolate the infested area, launder bedding and clothing at high temperature, vacuum seams and cracks, and seal contaminated items in plastic for disposal. Contact a licensed exterminator for professional treatment and adhere to their instructions.
What to do when there are bedbugs at home? - in detail
If you find bed‑bug activity in your residence, begin with a thorough inspection. Examine seams of mattresses, box springs, headboards, nightstands, and upholstered furniture. Look for live insects, shed skins, and tiny dark spots (fecal stains). Use a bright flashlight and a magnifying lens to improve detection.
Next, isolate the infestation. Strip the bed of all linens, wash them in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Place the clean bedding in sealed plastic bags until treatment is complete. Vacuum carpets, floorboards, and upholstery; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed container outside the home.
Apply chemical or non‑chemical controls. For chemical treatment, select an EPA‑registered insecticide labeled for bed‑bugs and follow label directions precisely. Apply to cracks, crevices, and the undersides of furniture. For non‑chemical options, use a steamer (minimum 100 °C) on infested surfaces, and consider encasing mattresses and box springs in certified bed‑bug proof covers. Heat‑treat rooms by raising ambient temperature to 50 °C for several hours, or employ professional heat‑exposure services.
After treatment, monitor progress. Place interceptors under each bed leg to capture wandering insects and check them weekly. Continue vacuuming and laundering as needed. If activity persists after two weeks, repeat the treatment cycle or enlist a licensed pest‑management professional for a comprehensive approach.
Prevent future introductions by inspecting second‑hand furniture before bringing it indoors, sealing cracks in walls and baseboards, and using protective covers on mattresses. Regularly wash bedding on hot cycles and maintain low‑clutter environments to reduce hiding places.