bedbug treatment checklist

For the treatment of bedbugs to be effective proper preparation is vital. If the space is not properly prepared then the control of this pest is extremely unlikely. 

Following our 6 step process will help ensure you are doing your part.

1) Packing/Prep: All furniture must be pulled away from the walls 6'-8' inches towards the middle of the room to give the technician adequate access to the baseboards. Clutter is also very detrimental to gaining control of bedbugs,  de-cluttering is extremely helpful in reducing areas bedbugs can hide. 

2) Contents: Dressers, closets, bookshelves should be emptied and contents inspected by occupant to ensure bedbugs are not in the items. Items can then be placed in bags or plastic bins to allow for treatment of furniture.

3) Laundry: Washable items must be put through the hot cycle and then the dryer on hot cycle. It is the heat that kills bedbugs and all stages of life not the water. All laundered items should then be placed in new plastic bags including drapes, stuffed animals etc. in order to prevent re-infestation while undergoing treatment. 

4) Vacuum: Vacuuming will reduce bedbug populations as a preparation for treatment. A crevice attachment should be used on mattress seams, bed legs, box springs, and carpet seams. Vacuum filter bag should be removed and discarded outside of the home to avoid re-infestation. 

5) Beds/furnishings: The decision to replace beds or other items depends on the condition and infestation level. If bedding is older replacing it AFTER control is achieved can be a good measure. Mattress encasements can also assists in bug proofing the mattress and box spring also making follow up inspections easier as the white canvas of the encasement makes inspections easier and it reduces hiding places for bedbugs. 

6) Disposal of items: When items are being thrown away to prevent spreading the infestation they should be wrapped or bagged to prevent spreading them through a building as items are transported out. It is also good practice to deface these items to prevent dumpster divers from reclaiming these items and spreading it further. 

PREPARE TO BE OUT OF YOUR UNIT FOR 4 HOURS AFTER TREATMENT IS COMPLETED TO ALLOW THE PRODUCT TO DRY. 

FISH TANKS SHOULD BE COVERED AND FILTERS TURNED OFF PRIOR TO TREATMENT.