Bed bugs are small parasitic insects that feed on human blood and require a multi-step approach for complete removal. Laundering sheets is an effective measure for eliminating pests and their eggs from fabrics, but it is not a standalone solution for an infestation. These insects hide in many places beyond the bedding, meaning a comprehensive strategy is required to achieve full eradication. Successful treatment of linens relies on using specific high-temperature settings that bed bugs cannot survive, focusing on the heat-intensive drying process.
The Critical Role of Heat: Laundry Protocol
Heat is the primary mechanism for killing bed bugs and their eggs harbored within sheets, clothing, and other washable textiles. The insects and their eggs are highly susceptible to elevated temperatures, which causes cellular damage and death. To ensure elimination, the water temperature in the washing machine should reach at least 140°F (60°C). Washing items on the hottest setting the fabric can tolerate is recommended to achieve this temperature threshold.
While the hot water wash is helpful, the dryer is the most lethal step in the laundering process. Bed bugs die when exposed to temperatures of 120°F (49°C) or higher for a sustained period. Transferring washed items immediately to the dryer and running a cycle on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes is the standard protocol. For thicker items like blankets or comforters, a 60-minute cycle may be necessary to ensure the heat fully penetrates the material.
The drying process is so effective that items unsuitable for a hot water wash, such as delicate clothing, can be treated by placing them directly into the dryer on high heat for 30 minutes. Do not overload the dryer, as tightly packed items prevent the heat from circulating evenly, creating cool pockets where bed bugs could survive. The mechanical tumbling and extended exposure to intense heat ensure the death of any remaining pests or newly hatched nymphs.
Containment and Safe Handling of Infested Items
Proper containment is required before treating any items to prevent the unintentional spread of the infestation to other rooms. All infested linens, clothing, and fabrics should be stripped from the bed and immediately placed into heavy-duty, sealable plastic bags. Sealing the items immediately traps the insects and their eggs within the bag. Care must be taken not to shake out the items, which could dislodge pests and cause them to drop onto the floor or other surfaces.
Once securely bagged, items can be safely transported to the washing machine without compromising other areas of the home. The entire sealed bag should be carried directly to the laundry area. When transferring the contents, tip the items directly from the bag into the drum to minimize the risk of bed bugs escaping. The plastic bag itself should then be immediately sealed again and disposed of in an outdoor trash receptacle to ensure lingering insects are permanently removed.
Beyond the Bedding: Comprehensive Eradication Strategy
Washing and drying fabrics is only one component of a successful eradication effort because bed bugs do not exclusively live in bedding. These insects hide in surrounding areas, including mattress seams, bed frames, furniture crevices, and behind baseboards. Ignoring these non-fabric harborages will result in a rapid re-infestation of the newly cleaned sheets.
A foundational step is sealing the mattress and box spring with specialized, tear-resistant encasements designed for bed bugs. These zippered covers trap any insects still on the mattress inside, where they will eventually die due to lack of a blood meal. For non-washable items and surfaces, steam cleaning is highly effective, as the high temperature of the steam kills bugs and eggs on contact. Apply steam slowly along seams and crevices of furniture and bed frames to ensure deep heat penetration.
Vacuuming is a valuable tool for removing visible insects and eggs from cracks, crevices, and the perimeter of the room. Use a vacuum with a crevice tool to target these tight spaces. The contents of the vacuum bag or canister must be sealed in a plastic bag and immediately disposed of outside after each use. Ultimately, a severe or persistent infestation requires the intervention of a professional pest control company who can apply targeted chemical treatments or use whole-room heat treatments.