Bedbugs: How They Live and How to Eliminate Them

Strip beds and wash all sheets, pillowcases, and clothing in hot water (≥60°C / 140°F).

Dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes.

Vacuum Thoroughly:

Vacuum mattresses, bed frames, furniture, carpets, and baseboards.

Empty the vacuum into a sealed bag and discard outside.

Steam Treatment:

Use a steam cleaner on mattresses, furniture seams, and cracks.

Bedbugs and eggs die at steam temperatures above 120°F (49°C).

Apply Diatomaceous Earth:

Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the bed frame, furniture, and other hiding spots.

It dries out and kills bedbugs over a few days.

Declutter and Seal Cracks:

Reduce clutter around the bed and seal cracks in walls, baseboards, and furniture where bedbugs can hide.

Repeat and Monitor:

Repeat washing, vacuuming, and steam treatments weekly for 2–3 weeks.

Continue monitoring for bites or live bugs.

Extra Tips:

Bedbugs do not like extreme cold: items can also be frozen for several days.

Avoid using strong chemicals without proper ventilation; natural methods like heat and diatomaceous earth are safe and effective.

With consistent cleaning, heat treatment, and protective measures, you can eradicate bedbugs from your home without expensive professional treatments.