There’s nothing worse than waking up to a bed bug infestation. The mere thought of tiny, blood-sucking creatures crawling around in your bed can make your skin crawl. While getting rid of these pests is a priority, many people overlook an essential step in the process: cleaning your pillows. A pillow is a haven for bed bugs, and neglecting to clean them can lead to a re-infestation. But fear not, in this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean your pillows after bed bugs, so you can rest easy knowing that you’re safe from these pesky critters. So let’s dive into it.
How do you clean pillows after bed bugs?
Remember, bed bugs can easily spread from one place to another. So, it is important to regularly inspect and clean pillows, mattresses, and other bedding to prevent and control bed bug infestations.
1. Wash and dry the pillows on the highest possible heat setting. The high temperature will kill any remaining bed bugs and their eggs.
2. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to suck out any bed bugs or debris stuck on the surface of the pillow and its cover.
3. Remove and dispose of the pillow’s cover if it is heavily infested. It is more efficient to replace the cover than washing it.
4. Leave the pillow in direct sunlight to expose it to heat. Bed bugs cannot withstand high temperatures, so the sunlight will effectively kill any remaining pests.
5. Call a professional exterminator if the infestation is severe. These experts have the expertise and equipment to deal with the problem quickly and effectively.
Take a look at this fascinating video on Bed Bugs, I guarantee you’ll find it interesting:
How to Clean Pillows After Bed Bugs
Why It’s Important to Clean Pillows After Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are one of the most annoying pests that can invade your home. They are small, blood-sucking insects that can live in your bedding, including pillows. If you have bed bugs, it’s crucial to clean your pillows properly to eliminate them from your home. If bed bugs are not eradicated from your pillows, they will continue to infest other areas of your home, making the process of getting rid of them even more challenging. Cleaning pillows is one of the steps to take to ensure you get a good night’s sleep and prevent bed bugs from returning.
Preparing Pillows for Cleaning
The first step in cleaning pillows after bed bugs is to place them securely in a sealed bag. This step ensures that bed bugs and their eggs cannot escape and infest other areas. Once the pillows are in a sealed bag, take them to the washing machine. Remove any loose debris, such as pet hair or lint, before placing them in the machine.
Washing Pillows at High Temperature
The next step in cleaning pillows after bed bugs is to wash them at a high temperature. Set the washing machine to the hottest temperature and utilize regular detergent. The combination of high temperature and detergent will eliminate up to 100% of bed bugs and their eggs. You can also add bleach to the wash if the bedding permits. A regular wash cycle should also work since bed bugs are sensitive to high temperatures.
To ensure all bed bugs are eliminated, wash the pillows twice, especially if you have the time. Regular washing of your pillowcases and sheets may not completely eliminate bed bugs on the pillows, and that is why it is advisable to wash the pillows thoroughly using high-temperature water.
Drying Pillows After Washing
After washing your pillows, it’s essential to ensure they are completely dry before reusing them. You can either hang the pillows outside to air dry in direct sunlight or use a dryer. The dryer is the most effective way to dry pillows quickly. Place the pillows in the dryer with a dryer sheet at high heat for 30 to 40 minutes. The heat will kill any remaining bed bugs or eggs on the pillows.
Other Ways to Eliminate Bed Bugs from Pillows
Besides washing and drying pillows at high temperatures, there are other methods to eliminate bed bugs from pillows. You can try steaming them at high temperature or freezing them for at least three days. High heat will kill the bugs, and the freezing temperature will eliminate the eggs. However, it is crucial to note that these methods may not be as effective as using detergent and hot water, and you must exercise caution when freezing a pillow if the pillow is made up of materials that can be destroyed by the freezing process.
Preventing Bed Bugs from Returning to Pillows
Once you have eliminated bed bugs from your pillows, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent their return. Here are some additional tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Wash your pillows every two weeks to prevent the buildup of bed bugs.
- Encasements: Put pillow encasements on all your pillows to protect your pillows from bed bugs.
- Vacuuming: Regularly vacuum your bedroom, including the mattress and pillows, to eliminate any bed bugs that may have made their way into the room.
- Early Detection: Check your bedroom regularly for signs of bed bugs, such as small black and brown bugs, small eggs, or bloodstains on your bed sheets or pillows.
In conclusion, if you have bed bugs in your home, it’s essential to clean your pillows properly. Washing and drying them at high temperatures will eliminate 100% of bed bugs and their eggs. It’s also crucial to take preventative measures, such as using pillow encasements, regular cleaning, vacuuming, and checking your bedroom regularly for signs of bed bugs. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pillows remain bed bug-free, and you can have a good night’s sleep.
