Bed Bug Service Preparation Sheet

 

Bed Bug Preparation/Information:

  • Prior to treatment, remove all bedding from mattresses, gather all linens, clothing, etc. from living space. This includes any textile materials that are machine washable – pillows, mattress covers, anything – and those that must be dry cleaned. Even fabric that is in storage should be collected. Wash bedding and any clothing/fabrics that may have come in contact with bedbugs in HOT water, and dry in the dryer if possible. Wash all other linens and fabrics as directed.
  • After washing, place items in storage bins or bags, or garbage bags. Seal as much as possible to prevent bugs from entering and hiding in the clean fabrics.
  • Empty closets in rooms where bugs have been found, or closets in which fabrics, linens, towels, etc. have been stored.
  • Vacuum floors, car pets, nooks and crannies. Steam clean, if possible, floors, rugs (if not machine washable), couch cushions, etc.
  • Move objects away from perimeter of rooms. For example, if your sofa or bed is positioned against a wall, pull it away from the wall. The exterminator will need access to the perimeter of the rooms where bugs have been found, (probably bed rooms, living room, den/study). Vacuum along the perimeter of the room.
  • Empty wooden bookshelves, desks, dressers, nightstands etc., and remove drawers if possible. Bedbugs can and will seek refuge between the boards of wooden furniture. This may include coffee tables, television stands, bed frames, photo frames, and box springs.
  • Make sure to leave your home for a period of 3 to 4 hours after the treatment has been completed.

Tips & Warnings:

  • Following treatment, seal your mattress, box spring, and pillows in airtight protective ‘bags’, often carried by mattress sellers. Use mattress vinyl/zippered cases only. (we can provide them at a cost)
  • Be prepared for a follow-up treatment within two weeks from the initial service.
  • Many bedbug infestations are the result of travel – people pick up bugs in hotel and motels then transport them home in their luggage, public places where lots of people gather, etc. Visually inspect mattresses before sleeping on them and your luggage before settling in at home after a trip.
  • Be sure to follow the instructions. Success depends on you and your willingness to cooperate and follow directions, even if it means to get rid of your furniture. You cannot be too thorough. Yes, it is annoying and time consuming to prepare, but it is best to do it right the first time and avoid repeating the process should the treatment fail because the space was not prepared!