You probably don’t want to lift your comforter to find the bedding infested with bedbugs. Unfortunately, it’s something many will experience, and it’s important to act quickly and accordingly to eliminate the issue. If the insects are isolated to your sheets, laundering them can be an effective solution if you follow the right steps. If you’ve discovered these pests in your home, take the following steps in the laundry room before they spread.

How to Clean Bedbug-Infested Sheets

1. Sort & Seal

Before anything else, sort bedding and other fabrics that have or may have bedbugs and place them into a sealed container. These insects can spread quickly and love to vanish into hard-to-reach areas once they escape bedding. By isolating the problem, you can safely transport them to a home laundry machine or laundromat.

2. Wash On Hot

When you program the washing machine, put it on the highest heat setting that the fabric can safely endure. This will ensure the heat and water fully kill the pests during the wash cycle. If you don’t need to clean the bedding, you can simply place it in the dryer for 30 minutes on high.

When placing any bedbug-infested items into the washer or dryer, be careful to make sure none escape or attach to nearby clothing. Check the folding area as well—those that may have fallen off can easily sneak back into your bedding.

3. Avoid Re-Infestation

You can’t be certain your home is bedbug-free until an exterminator comes, so avoid reintroducing bedding to a potential infestation. Once clean, place it in a sealed bag. Don’t use the bag you transported it in, however; there may still be pests present. It’s best to dispose of the bag altogether.

Dealing with bedbugs and other insects? Turn to Collins Exterminating. They’ve protected homeowners in and around Bolivar, MO, for over 57 years, and their skilled pest control technicians will work closely with you to create a treatment and prevention plan. They’re proud to provide free, no-obligation estimates as well as five-year pest-free guarantees, so call (417) 326-2124 to schedule a consultation. Visit them online for more information.