What to wash bedbugs with? - briefly
Use hot water (≥120 °F/49 °C) with laundry detergent and dry the items on high heat for at least 30 minutes. For added assurance, treat the cleaned fabrics with an approved insecticidal spray after laundering.
What to wash bedbugs with? - in detail
Effective removal of bed‑bug infestations from washable items relies on a combination of temperature, surfactant action, and, when appropriate, chemical oxidizers. The process begins with sorting: separate linens, clothing, curtains, and soft toys that can tolerate high heat. Load the machine to allow water circulation around each piece.
Temperature
- Minimum water temperature: 120 °F (49 °C).
- Preferred temperature: 130–140 °F (54–60 °C) for resistant stages.
- Heat exposure of at least 30 minutes ensures mortality of eggs and nymphs.
Detergent
- Use a standard laundry detergent with anionic surfactants.
- Surfactants disrupt the waxy cuticle, facilitating heat penetration.
- Follow manufacturer’s dosage for a full‑load cycle.
Bleach (sodium hypochlorite)
- Add ½ cup of 5‑6 % household bleach to the wash for white or color‑fast fabrics.
- Bleach provides oxidative stress that kills residual insects.
- Do not combine bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.
Enzyme‑based cleaners
- Apply a pre‑wash soak containing protease enzymes for heavily soiled items.
- Enzymes break down organic matter that shelters insects.
- Soak for 15 minutes before the main cycle.
Post‑wash drying
- Transfer items to a dryer set at 130 °F (54 °C) for a minimum of 30 minutes.
- Drying completes the thermal kill and prevents re‑infestation.
Special considerations
- Delicate fabrics (silk, wool) should be hand‑washed in hot water with mild detergent, then dried on a high‑heat setting if the fiber tolerates it.
- Non‑washable items (mattresses, upholstered furniture) require steam treatment at ≥ 212 °F (100 °C) for 20 minutes or placement in a sealed freezer at – 4 °F (– 20 °C) for 72 hours.
Following this protocol eliminates bed‑bug populations from washable materials while preserving fabric integrity.