Bed bugs in the mattress
hard 2–8 h
Tools: flashlight, vacuum with crevice tool, steamer (optional), large sealable bags · Materials: bed-bug-proof mattress and box-spring encasements, interceptor cups for bed legs, hot-wash laundry bags
Steps
- Confirm: look for rust-coloured spots and shed skins on the mattress seams, box spring and bed frame with a flashlight; do not throw the mattress out — moving it spreads them.
- Strip the bedding into sealed bags, wash hot and dry on the hottest setting for 30 minutes; do the same with curtains and clothes near the bed.
- Vacuum every seam, the frame, the headboard and the skirting board, then seal and bin the vacuum bag outside.
- Encase the mattress and box spring in bed-bug-proof covers and leave them on for a year; put interceptor cups under each bed leg and pull the bed away from the wall.
- Steam the frame and seams if you have a steamer; check the interceptors weekly.
Stop and call a pro if
- you find bugs in more than one room, or in furniture other than the bed
- they are still there after three weeks of the routine above
- you live in a multi-unit building — neighbouring units must be inspected too
- you are considering foggers or over-the-counter sprays — they scatter the infestation
What a pro does that you can't
A pest technician inspects every harbourage, treats with heat or targeted products that DIY cannot buy, and schedules follow-ups; landlords in most markets are responsible for treatment in rented homes.
DIY cost: $40–120 for encasements and interceptors