Did you recently have bed bugs in your home? If so, you’re probably wondering what comes after bed bug extermination. Your pest control technician likely informed you of the steps to take post-treatment for bed bugs. Even so, it’s important to cover all bases, not only for safety but to make sure you get the most from the treatment(s).
Let’s look at the things to consider and things that you need to know after a bed bug extermination and what to expect.
Premature Re-Entry To Treated Room Is Not Recommended
If you have used a PMP (pest management professional) for the process, be sure to follow all of their recommendations.
For example, you will be informed about how long you should wait before re-entering the treated area or room.
This is typically between 2-4 hours after the extermination and the same goes for instances when you personally sprayed or treated the space.
Having said that, you might be asked to wait longer depending on factors like severity of the bed bug infestation and the potency of used chemicals.
Take heed and bide your time to allow the pesticide to dry.
Proper Aeration Is Necessary
You must also remember to air out your property upon re-entry.
However, and like in the previous point, the recommended time may vary.
Some PMPs propose that you aerate thoroughly for about one hour while others may request slightly shorter.
Refer to the insecticide’s label for aeration instructions in case you choose a DIY bed bug treatment.
Why is this necessary?
Ventilation helps remove any harmful effects that could be lingering in the air, some of which can lead to breathing problems.
Eliminate Potential Surviving Eggs Hidden in Clothing or Linens
Since they may still be carrying some eggs, wash and dry any clothing you had left in the room.
You should launder in hot water for utmost efficiency.
Similarly, dry your linen at a high heat setting and for a minimum of 30 minutes in order to kill all the residual eggs/ surviving bed bugs.
But don’t vacuum until the opportune time comes as advised by your PMP.
Don’t Vacuum Right Away After A Bed Bug Treatment
Vacuuming is part of our daily routine but this time, you should resist the temptation to vacuum/mop the room.
Doing so may wipe off the insecticide off the carpets and other surfaces.
This risks a re-infestation as some bugs/eggs are not killed instantly.
Indeed, some chemicals are designed to stick on surfaces for weeks in order to annihilate all bugs.
Your PMP should again inform you about the best time to sweep or vacuum sprayed zones.
Watch For Possible Re-Emerging Infestation
You cannot afford to take your eyes off the ball.
You see, in most cases, eggs which survived the onslaught soon start hatching so you will be in for a rude shock if you’re not monitoring the usual bed bugs hotspots.
This includes in bed seams, box springs, carpets, rugs, chairs, couches, drawer joints…you name it.
You should watch out for warning signs like nymphs, adults, and obviously, eggs.
Monitoring aids like bed bug interceptors could also be beneficial.
You should then organize a follow-up treatment if need be.
Protect Your Mattress and Box Springs
Once you have had bed bug extermination done in your home, it’s important to protect against future infestations. If you had bed bugs you likely decided to throw away your mattress and box springs, or possibly had them treated as well.
Now it’s time to avoid having to buy a new bed or pay for treating it in the future by using an encasement. Encasing your box springs and mattresses will hinder the movement of any survivors on an existing treated bed and protect against future bed bugs.
That way, the survivors won’t be able to bite you while you’re sleeping. This also means they can’t escape and go and lay eggs elsewhere in your home.
Contact Your Local Bed Bug Exterminator
Those are just some of the things you might keep in mind after bed bug extermination service.
Above all, obey the advice of your PMP and or instructions on the label, if you opted for a DIY process.
If you have questions, contact the exterminator that treated your property. And remember, if you suspect they’re on your property it’s important to seek professional help immediately in eliminating them before they multiply and become an infestation.