How Can I Clean Furniture With Bed Bugs?

Bed bugs are reddish-brown insects with no wings that reach only 1/4 inch or less in length at maturity. Infestations have increased across the United States since 2000. Cleaning and eradication prove difficult.

Cleaning

Wash and dry all bedding and washable pillow or cushion covers on the hottest setting. Vacuum all mattresses, box springs and upholstered furniture thoroughly on all surfaces. Immediately empty the vacuum bag outside after cleaning. Use a hand-held steamer to clean mattresses and box springs. Hire a professional to steam-clean the carpets and upholstered furniture.

Treatment

Contact a pest control professional to safely and effectively treat your home with insecticides. Multiple treatments may be needed to completely rid the home of bed bugs.

Prevention

Prevent bed bugs from entering the home and infesting your furniture by avoiding stays in hotels or motels or checking for signs of bed bugs in such places. Signs include brown flecks around the bottom edges of the mattresses and bed bugs hiding behind the headboard. At home, keep all mattresses and pillows in zippered cases and vacuum thoroughly at least once a week but preferably more often. Avoid bringing used furniture into your home that may already be infested with bed bugs.

References

• University of Nebraska Extension: Bed Bug Brochure
• University of Nebraska Extension: Managing Bed Bugs

Resources

• What Are Bed Bugs?