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How Do You Get Rid Of Bed Bugs

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Getting rid of bed bugs requires a combination of physical, chemical, and professional methods, applied thoroughly and often repeatedly to ensure complete eradication[4].

Physical and Non-chemical Methods

  • Heat Treatment: Wash infested bedding and clothes in hot water (at least 115°F/46°C) for 30 minutes and then dry on the highest setting for another 30 minutes[5]. Professional exterminators may also use whole-room heating systems to raise temperatures to 135°F (57°C) or higher, maintaining those levels long enough to kill bugs and eggs in all hiding places[3].
  • Steam Treatment: Use a steamer on mattresses, couches, carpets, baseboards, and other furniture, ensuring the temperature hits 150–170°F (65–75°C) across surfaces[1][7].
  • Cold Treatment: Place small, infested items (bagged) in a deep freezer at 0°F (-19°C) for at least 4 days[5].
  • Vacuuming: Vacuum mattresses, bed frames, seams, and furniture thoroughly. Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum and dispose of the bag or contents in a sealed bag outside the home[7] (note this removes live bugs, but eggs often stick and may need to be scraped off).
  • Encasements: Cover mattresses and box springs with bedbug-proof encasements; bugs trapped inside will die, and new bugs can’t enter[5].
  • Reducing Clutter: Remove unnecessary items to reduce hiding spots, and seal cleaned objects in plastic bags to prevent re-infestation[8].

Chemical and Product Methods

  • Insecticides: Apply products labeled for bed bug control, focusing on cracks, crevices, and other hiding places. Multiple applications over weeks are often needed, as eggs may survive a single treatment[6]. Some bed bug populations are resistant to common chemicals (especially pyrethroids), so alternative products or professional treatments may be needed[6].
  • Natural Sprays: Some non-toxic sprays (e.g., Kleen Green, Bug Patrol, Best Yet) can provide short-term control but usually must be combined with other methods[2].

Professional Extermination

  • Severe infestations almost always require professional pest control. Professionals will inspect, assess, prepare, and treat using specialized equipment and chemicals, and then conduct follow-ups to eradicate remaining bugs and eggs[4].

Ongoing Prevention

  • Continue monitoring for new signs of bed bugs for at least two months after treatment[6].
  • Integrate regular cleaning, encasements, and minimal clutter to prevent reinfestation.

References

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