How to Prevent and Get Rid of Bedbugs in Your Home

6. Wash and Heat-Treat Bedding

Bedbugs cannot survive high temperatures.

Steps:

• Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and clothing in hot water
• For at least half an hour, dry on the maximum heat setting.
• Repeat regularly during an infestation

7. Vacuum Thoroughly

Vacuuming removes bedbugs, eggs, and debris.

Tips:

• Vacuum mattresses, bed frames, furniture, and floors
• Focus on seams, crevices, and corners
• Vacuum bags should be disposed of right away in a sealed plastic bag.

8. Use Steam Cleaning

Steam effectively kills bedbugs on contact.

Action:

• Apply steam to mattresses, upholstered furniture, and curtains
• Ensure steam penetrates folds and crevices
• Repeat treatment weekly to address newly hatched bugs

9. Seal Cracks and Crevices

Bedbugs hide in tiny spaces around the home.

Tips:

• Seal cracks in walls, baseboards, and furniture
• Repair peeling wallpaper or loose wallpaper edges
• Caulk gaps around electrical outlets and furniture joints

10. Apply Bedbug-Specific Insecticides

Insecticides can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Recommendations:

• Use EPA-approved bedbug insecticides
• Follow instructions carefully to avoid health risks
• Focus on cracks, furniture, and baseboards

Caution:

• Avoid excessive use of chemicals
• Consider professional pest control if infestations are severe

11. Monitor and Repeat Treatments

Bedbugs reproduce quickly, so one treatment may not be enough.

Tips:

• Continue monitoring for signs of bedbugs for several weeks
• Repeat vacuuming, laundering, and chemical treatments as necessary
• Consider placing bedbug interceptors under bed legs to trap and monitor bugs