How to eliminate bed bugs from the home?

How to eliminate bed bugs from the home?

Bed bugs are very stubborn and require integrated, repeated treatments for complete elimination. They reproduce quickly, hide deep, and their eggs are resistant to insecticides — one treatment is far from enough.

Step 1: Treat bedding fabrics

• Remove all sheets, duvet covers, and pillowcases; wash in water above 60°C with laundry detergent.
• Tumble dry on high heat for more than 30 minutes — high temperatures kill eggs and adults.
• For non-washable clothing and stuffed toys, seal in plastic bags and place in direct sunlight or freeze at -18°C for 72 hours.
• Handle fabrics gently to avoid shaking off eggs and bed bugs.

Step 2: Thorough vacuuming

• Vacuum all mattress seams, edges, label folds, and zipper areas.
• Vacuum bed frames, headboards, baseboards, and floor cracks — bed bugs hide here during the day.
• Also vacuum sofa crevices and under furniture, as these areas may be infested.
• Vacuum vibration helps flush bed bugs out of hiding.
• Immediately seal and discard the vacuum bag outdoors — do not leave it in indoor trash bins.

Step 3: Spray dinotefuran-containing household insecticide

• Spray dinotefuran-containing household insecticide on bed slats, mattress edges, corners, and nightstand crevices.
• Spray finely and thoroughly to ensure the liquid penetrates deep into crevices — where bed bugs hide during the day.
• Hold the nozzle 20-30 cm from the surface; spray evenly until damp but not running.
• Once dry, the insecticide forms an invisible film; bed bugs that crawl over it die. Residual effect lasts 2-4 weeks.

Step 4: Second treatment (critical!)

• Bed bug eggs have thick shells that resist insecticide penetration; one treatment cannot kill them.
• After 7-14 days, eggs hatch; newly emerged nymphs that crawl over the residual film die — which is why the film must be preserved.
• Continuous treatment is needed: apply 2-3 times at 7-14 day intervals to ensure complete elimination.
• Vacuum before each treatment to remove eggs and feces, allowing the insecticide to contact surfaces directly.

Step 5: Preventive measures

• Use a bed bug-proof mattress encasement to trap bed bugs inside or prevent entry.
• Place interceptor cups under bed legs or apply petroleum jelly to prevent bed bugs from climbing up.
• Keep bedrooms tidy to reduce clutter and hiding places.
• Continue monitoring for 1-2 months after treatment to ensure no signs of recurrence.