How to Wash Clothes With Bed Bugs
Discovering a bed bug infestation in your home can be a distressing experience. These tiny pests not only cause discomfort and sleepless nights but can also infest your clothes, making it essential to properly wash and treat your laundry to eliminate them. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wash clothes contaminated with bed bugs effectively.
Step 1: Sort and Inspect
Start by sorting your laundry into different categories such as whites, colors, and delicates. This separation ensures that you can wash clothes at the appropriate temperature and with the right detergents. While sorting, carefully inspect each item for any signs of bed bugs, such as dark stains or eggs.
Step 2: Pre-Treatment
Before washing, it’s recommended to pre-treat any visibly infested items. Place these clothes in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Leave the bag in a freezer for a minimum of four days, as bed bugs cannot survive in freezing temperatures.
Step 3: Laundering
Once the pre-treatment is complete, it’s time to launder your clothes. Wash them in hot water, preferably at a temperature of 120°F (49°C) or above, as this kills bed bugs and their eggs. Use a high-quality laundry detergent and add a cup of vinegar to the wash cycle, which helps to eliminate any remaining pests.
Step 4: Drying
After washing, transfer your clothes to the dryer. Set it to the highest heat setting and tumble dry for at least 30 minutes. The high temperatures in the dryer effectively kill any remaining bed bugs. If the fabric allows, you can also iron the clothes, using the hottest setting, as an additional measure of assurance.
Step 5: Storage
Once your clothes are dry and bed bug-free, store them in sealed plastic bags or containers to prevent re-infestation. Avoid leaving clothes lying around the house, as bed bugs can easily crawl onto them again.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can bed bugs survive in the washing machine?
A1: Bed bugs cannot survive the hot water and high temperatures used in washing machines and dryers. Washing and drying your clothes at the appropriate temperatures will effectively eliminate them.
Q2: Should I wash all my clothes if I find bed bugs?
A2: It’s advisable to wash all clothes, including those not visibly infested, to ensure complete elimination. Bed bugs can easily hide in clothing, so thorough cleaning is crucial.
Q3: Can I use cold water for washing bed bug-infested clothes?
A3: While using cold water may help to remove dirt, it might not effectively kill bed bugs and their eggs. Hot water, preferably at 120°F or higher, is recommended to ensure their eradication.
Q4: Can I use regular laundry detergent?
A4: Yes, regular laundry detergent is sufficient for washing bed bug-infested clothes. However, adding vinegar to the wash cycle can further enhance the elimination process.
Q5: Do I need to wash dry-clean-only clothes?
A5: Dry-clean-only clothes should be taken to a professional cleaner who can treat them appropriately. Inform the cleaner about the bed bug infestation to ensure proper handling.
Q6: How often should I wash my bedding if I have bed bugs?
A6: It’s advisable to wash and dry your bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, at least once a week until the infestation is completely eradicated.
Q7: Can I wash shoes and other non-fabric items infested with bed bugs?
A7: Shoes and non-fabric items can be vacuumed thoroughly to remove any bed bugs or eggs. Wiping them down with a cloth soaked in hot, soapy water can also help eliminate these pests.
By following these steps and properly treating your clothes, you can effectively wash bed bug-infested items and ensure a pest-free home. Remember to be diligent and consistent in your efforts to prevent re-infestation.
