Bed bug infestations in your bedding can be a real menace, but with some keen practices and cleaning routines, this can be a thing of the past.
Often, bed bugs find refuge in your bedding, particularly in the seams. The tiny critters are hard to spot with the naked eye, making it quite a task to notice them. However, an unusual smell or dark spots on your bedding could serve as tell-tale signs of their presence on your sheets and pillows.
Bed bugs find the constant, comfortable temperatures in your bed a perfect breeding ground. With that said, they don't fare well in extreme heat or cold. This is a significant factor to consider when dealing with these pests.
Hygiene Practices
Implementing regular hygiene practices is a key deterrent to bed bug infestations. Washing all textiles used or worn weekly is a plus. Specifically, your bedding should be cleaned at least once a week or every 10 days to keep the bugs at bay.
Cleaning Bed Bugs
If you happen to come across any traces of bed bugs, take immediate action. Your bedding should be cleaned at a minimum temperature of 60°C to exterminate the bugs. This includes pillowcases, sheets, and duvet covers. Always heed the labels on these items and choose the highest possible temperature when washing.
Speaking of washing, don't forget your pillows and duvets. These should also be put through a delicate wash program at 50-60°C, ensuring any lurking bugs are dealt with. After washing, reshuffle the filling while still damp and, if you can, dry them in the sun.
Professional Cleaning
If you own a large duvet, you might want to consider a visit to a dry cleaner for a thorough disinfection. More so, if your duvets and pillows are filled with feather or down, it's imperative that they're professionally cleaned. This ensures any bugs and their eggs are completely eradicated, providing you with a peaceful, bug-free sleep.