How Do You Get Rid of Bedbugs?
DIY bedbug extermination techniques can help you control an infestation without using harmful chemicals. However, exterminating bedbugs yourself can be challenging, so you'll need to be persistent and use the following tips in combination to get on top of the problem
- Steam-clean your mattress, bedding and upholstery regularly to kill as many bedbugs as possible with heat.
- Remove unnecessary clutter in infested rooms.
- Vacuum your bed, furniture, floors and molding every day.
- Place used vacuum bags in an airtight container or bag and put them in an outside trash can.
- Wash your bedding and clothing on a hot cycle.
When Should I Call a Bedbug Exterminator?
While you can sometimes tackle minor bedbug infestations yourself, you'll need to call the professionals if the infestation gets out of hand. Seeing bedbugs in unusual places, such as window sills or electrical outlets, signifies that you need professional bedbug extermination. You may wish to call an exterminator sooner if the bites are causing major discomfort.
How Do You Prevent Bedbug Infestations?
Don’t Let Them In
One of the most effective ways to prevent a bedbug infestation is to avoid bringing them inside your home in the first place. If you purchase used furniture, bedding or clothing, inspect it for signs of bedbugs before bringing it home. You can remove any undetected hitchhikers by washing fabric items in hot water and cleaning larger items with a steam cleaner.
Seal Your Mattress
Purchasing a mattress and box spring encasement is an effective way to stop bedbugs from infesting your bed. It's worth spending a little more on a high-quality encasement, as cracks or rips could allow bedbugs inside. You can even stick duct tape over the zippers to make your bed as bug-proof as possible.
Keep Clean
Practicing good home hygiene can also help you swiftly deal with any bedbugs before they cause a full-blown infestation. Vacuum your home regularly and remove any clutter to reduce the number of places bedbugs can hide.
Mitigate Spread
People who live in multifamily buildings should be especially vigilant, as bedbugs can quickly spread between apartments. Seal any cracks or crevices in walls, doors and ceilings, and consider installing door sweeps to prevent bedbugs from entering your home from the corridors. Bedbugs can spread through shared laundry facilities, so use a clean plastic bag to transport your laundry and consider using a hot wash or dry cycle.
