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How do I get Rid of Bed Bugs in a Mattress?

Dan Cavallari
By Dan Cavallari
Updated May 17, 2024
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Ridding your home of bed bugs can be difficult, but following a few simple steps will help you eliminate the pest before they become a problem so large that a professional has to be called in. Bed bugs in a mattress are more common than in any other piece of furniture, so start your inspection there. Finding the bed bugs and any eggs that may be present will help you get rid of bed bugs in a mattress, but keep in mind that the bugs can spread, so to prevent the bed bugs from returning, be sure to inspect other pieces of furniture in the home as well.

Bed bugs in a mattress often hide in seams and tufts of material, so inspect the mattress carefully, especially the seams. If possible, turn the mattress over and check all sides, as well as the box spring and frame. These are all common areas for bed bugs in a mattress to be hiding out. If the infestation is severe enough, the best option is to get rid of the mattress entirely, but if this is not an option, other methods may be used.

Remove all pillows, plush toys, and other accessories that may spend time on or near the bed. Pesticides are available that are specially designed for bed bug infestations; such pesticides do not linger in the items being treated, so it should not be harmful to humans after a brief period of time. Be sure to read any pesticide labels carefully to ensure it is safe to use. If you are not comfortable using pesticides, be sure to vacuum all items thoroughly before putting them back on the bed.

Vacuuming the mattress itself will also help you get rid of bed bugs in a mattress. Vacuum the top and bottom of both the mattress and the box spring, paying special attention to seams, rolls, and bunches of fabric. Be sure to vacuum the surrounding areas as well, as bed bugs do not necessarily stay in the mattress. Vacuum seams near baseboards, all carpets, and even the insides of drawers. Once you have finished vacuuming, dispose of the vacuum bag in a garbage can outside of the house. Take all sheets and blankets that have been removed from the mattress and launder them in the hottest water available, or simply throw them away and buy new sheets if this is an option for you.

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