Properly preparing your home before your bed bug treatment can make a big difference in the effectiveness of the results. This checklist explains everything you need to do before your appointment so we can carry out a successful, stress-free treatment.
Please complete the steps below before your scheduled visit.
You will need to leave the treated area for at least 2 hours after the service.
Why Preparation Matters
A well-prepared property allows us to:
- Access all potential bed bug hiding places
- Prevent bugs from escaping or spreading during treatment
- Maximise the success of the treatment
Preparing Furniture and Rooms
- Move furniture at least 60 cm away from walls and skirting boards. This includes beds, wardrobes, sofas, and a chest of drawers.
- Empty desks, cupboards, bookshelves, and drawers that could harbour bed bugs.
Bag the items securely to avoid spreading bugs elsewhere. - Lift mattresses and box springs from bed frames and stand them upright. This gives us full access to potential infestation sites.
Wash and Seal Items at High Heat
- Wash all bedding, curtains, clothing, and soft furnishings in hot water and dry at 60°C or higher.
- This includes stuffed toys, pet bedding, and any washable fabrics in the affected area.
- After drying, seal everything in clean plastic bags or containers to keep bugs out.
Should You Throw Away Infested Furniture?
In most cases, professional treatment is enough to save furniture.
However, if you decide to dispose of an item:
- Wrap it in plastic before moving it to avoid spreading bugs.
- Deface it (e.g. slash mattresses) so others don’t reuse it.
If you’re unsure, speak to our team before throwing anything out.
After the Treatment
- Do not re-enter the treated area for at least 2 hours after we finish.
- Once back inside, open windows for 10–15 minutes if advised to ventilate the space.
- Avoid replacing sealed laundry or unpacking items until we give you the all-clear after your follow-up visit.
Follow-Up Treatments
We typically recommend at least two treatments to eliminate a bed bug infestation.
We’ll advise you on the schedule based on the severity and progress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are bed bugs?
A: Bed bugs are small, oval, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood.
Q: What do bed bugs look like?
A: Adults resemble apple seeds, being about 5mm long, while nymphs are smaller and might appear clear or tan.
Q: Can I see bed bugs?
A: They are visible but are more active at night, making daytime sightings rarer.
Q: Where do bed bugs hide?
A: They hide in small cracks on mattresses, behind headboards, and inside furniture, often clustering together. These pests are elusive, but knowing how to spot bed bugs in daylight can make a significant difference in identifying an infestation early. Look for small rust-colored stains on bedding or tiny white eggs in crevices. Regularly inspecting your sleeping area can help catch these unwanted guests before they multiply.
Q: How did I get them?
A: Bed bugs can hitch a ride on luggage, clothing, used furniture, and other items.
Q: What do bed bug bites look like?
A: Bed bug bites may appear as small red welts or bumps, often in a line or cluster.
Q: Why am I being bitten and not my partner?
A: Not everyone reacts to bed bug bites the same way. While some might have visible reactions, others might not show any signs.
Q: Should I attempt to treat bed bugs myself?
A: No, bed bugs are challenging to treat and are best left to professionals.
Q: How does Bugwise Pest Control treat bed bugs?
A: We use traditional, eco-friendly treatments tailored to your property and level of infestation.
Q: Do I need to throw my furniture away?
A: Not usually. Our team can safely treat most infested furniture.
Need Help or Have Questions?
Contact us before your appointment if you’re unsure about any part of the checklist.
We’re happy to guide you through the process and ensure you’re fully prepared.
