Bedbugs are really small creatures. They are very tough and have the ability to reproduce very quickly. These creatures are smart enough to know where to hide to avoid detection. The lifespan of these bugs is not very long as they can only live for months between meals. Though these creatures are very tiny but if they get into the bed with you, it means you’re in trouble!
Luckily you can get rid of these bedbugs, but for that you need to be a little patient as removing bedbugs takes effort and time. You will have to try different ways to get rid of bedbugs.
Here are 8 simple steps to help you to get rid of the bedbugs!
Step 1: Identify all the Infested Areas
You must try to find the bedbugs as soon as possible otherwise they will start to reproduce and it will become difficult for you to treat a big infestation. Smaller infestation can be harder to detect but they do less damage and can be treated cheaply and easily.
Bedbugs have narrow bodies which allow them to squeeze into tiny spots for example in the seams of mattress or couch. You must try to search bedbugs by yourself or hire a professional for the inspection. Bedbugs are usually found in furniture joints, under loose wallpaper and inside electrical outlets etc. You must look in these places with a flashlight or magnifying glass so that you can easily identify and treat them before it gets worse.
Step 2: Contain the Infestation
Now you know you have bugs in your bed so you must keep them contained somewhere to get rid of them as soon as possible.
A simple way to trap the bugs is with your vacuum, run the vacuum over the hiding places for example bed, carpets etc. quickly seal the vacuumed contents into the plastic bag and throw it away. Make sure to clean the vacuum as well to avoid any risk again. Now put the infected clothes or linens in the plastic bag and wash them thoroughly, after that put them on the highest possible temperature. If the clothes cannot be treated even by washing then throw it away immediately.
In case of furniture clean it but if you think that cleaning would not help then throw the furniture as well.
Step 3: Prep for Bedbug Treatment
Before you start preparing for your bedbug treatment make sure all your linens carpets etc. have been cleaned thoroughly. Now to prepare for bedbug treatment, make sure you throw away all the things that you believe are infested otherwise you could spread the bugs! Now repair the furniture, seal up the open areas and place your bed at least 6 inches away from the wall to avoid the risk again. But still if you can’t get rid of them then the other way is to kill them!
Step 4: Kill the Bedbugs
Bedbugs are quite easy to kill. These can be easily killed with high heat like 45 degrees or intense cold, 0 degrees.
- You can use steamer on carpets, mattresses and other places where bedbugs could possibly hide.
- You can also wash your clothes, carpets or bedding in hot water for at least 30 minutes and after that put them in dryer on the highest heat for 30 more minutes.
- Packing the infested item in a plastic bag and leaving it outside on a hot day can also kill the bedbugs. This process takes time but then you won’t have to throw the infested items and can re-use them.
- To kill the bedbugs in extreme cold, put the plastic bag in the freezer and use the thermometer to check the temperature. Leave the plastic bag in the freezer for at least 4 days.
Step 5: Non Chemical And Chemical Treatment
Bedbugs can also be killed by using chemical treatment. One way is using insecticides, you must use insecticides that are specifically made for killing bedbugs! The most common chemicals used to kill bedbugs are Pyrethrins and pyrethroids.
Pyrrole is also a chemical that kill bedbugs by disrupting their cells. Plant oil based products are less toxic than chemical insecticides but they work well against bedbugs. Desiccants are substances that can be used to kill bedbugs as well.
Step 6: Monitor The Affected Areas
You must also monitor the affected areas since bedbugs take some time to wipe out. Check the affected areas twice every week for the signs of activity. To make surviving bedbugs easier to detect, place bedbug interceptors under the bed. This device will help you to trap bedbugs very easily and quickly.
Step 7: Get The Pros Involved
If you fail to get rid of bedbugs on your own, then it’s time that you get the pros involved. There are many pest control companies that have the advantage of using certain chemicals that are not available to you. These companies use these chemicals to completely wipe out the bedbugs.
Pest companies also contain special equipment for heat treatment. The equipment can be used to heat the room around 135 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit which is high enough to kill the bedbugs. You can also contact the professionals for the treatment and inspection.
Step 8: Keep The Bedbugs Out
Once you’re successful in killing the bedbugs, make sure they stay gone for a long time. To avoid getting bedbugs again in your house don’t leave magazines, papers clothes or any other item on the floor. You must also wash and vacuum the bedding, carpets, furniture very often. Lastly cover your mattress with bedbug cover to avoid risk again!