Confirm bed bugs: look for live bugs, shed skins, small dark spots, and blood stains on bedding and nearby seams
Wash and dry infested bedding, linens, curtains, and washable clothing on the highest heat setting; dry thoroughly
Place non-washable items in sealed plastic bags and keep them sealed until treated or professionally handled
Vacuum mattresses, box springs, bed frames, baseboards, and nearby furniture seams; empty the vacuum immediately into a sealed bag and discard
Use bed bug–rated mattress and box spring encasements; keep sealed for at least 12 months
Disassemble the bed frame if possible; vacuum joints, cracks, and crevices; seal gaps with caulk or appropriate sealant
Reduce clutter near sleeping areas to remove hiding places
Seal cracks and crevices around beds, headboards, wall edges, and electrical outlets (do not open outlets yourself)
Treat with EPA-registered bed bug pesticides labeled for bed bugs; follow label directions exactly
Consider professional pest control, especially for widespread infestations or if DIY efforts fail
Use targeted treatments for harborages (e.g., bed frame joints, tufts, seams) rather than only spraying visible areas
Monitor with bed bug interceptors and/or traps under bed legs to track activity
Re-treat or schedule follow-up treatments as directed (bed bug eggs may survive initial treatments)
Avoid moving infested items to other rooms or homes; transport only in sealed bags/containers
Coordinate with building management or neighbors if infestation may be present in multiple units