Bedbugs are small insects that feed on blood. They are brown or red in color (following a meal), round and approximately a 1/4-inch long. Bedbugs cause infestations in mattresses and other furniture where they hide. Though commonly associated with unsanitary conditions, bedbug infestations can occur just about anywhere. Bedbugs sometimes "hitchhike" from hotels in luggage and begin an infestation in a home. It can be difficult to get rid of these insects but with a plan and vigilance, it can be accomplished.
Step 1
Remove all movable objects from the room in which there are bedbugs. Inspect all the items carefully, especially if they are upholstered, for bugs and clean the items thoroughly.
Step 2
Inspect the mattress and box springs if you are in a bedroom. Look behind pictures and check the seams of wallpaper. It is important to find all the hiding places so they can be treated.
Step 3
Wash all linens and clothing you removed in very hot water (at least 120 degrees F) to kill the bugs. Dry articles in clothes dryer, set on high heat. Do not store them in the affected room until it has been completely eradicated of bedbugs.
Step 4
Vacuum the room several times. Be sure to get into corners and under the bed. Place the used vacuum bag into another bag which can be sealed. Dispose of it promptly.
Step 5
Caulk all holes present in the walls and floor as even small openings can house the insects. Caulk completely around the baseboards and moldings of the room so that you seal off any openings through which the bugs can enter and exit.
Step 6
Clean out all drawers and underneath all pieces of furniture.
Step 7
Scrub hard surfaces of the room with detergent and hot water. Use a stiff-bristled brush to get rid of any eggs present.
Step 8
Spray or dust the mattress and box springs with an insecticide formulated to kill bedbugs. Spray the rest of the room with a space spray formulated to kill bedbugs. Seal all windows and doors tightly. Leave the area for at least 4 hours following spraying.
Step 9
Apply a residual insecticide to the baseboards of the room and around the windows and doors. You might want to purchase a residual aerosol spray that can be applied to upholstered items and the mattress as well.
Tips and Warnings
- Invest in a mattress cover to keep any future bedbugs from being able to access additional hiding spaces.
- Wear a mask and gloves while using insecticides.
Things You'll Need
- Caulk
- Detergent
- Stiff bristled brush
- Insecticides formulated to kill bedbugs
- Residual insecticide
- Face mask
- Gloves
