You can learn how to fumigate a mattress in just two steps. This article will discuss everything from preparation to after-treatment procedures. But why should you know fumigation?
Fumigation is an effective way to ensure the cleanliness of your bed, especially for bed bugs. In addition, you will save yourself the trouble of disposing of a bed bug mattress in the long run. Continue reading below to know more
How Do You Fumigate A Bed?
Step 1. Prepare the bed
Open the windows of the room to allow airflow before you begin with the fumigation. Then, remove all the accessories and bedding on the bed, and wash them accordingly. Finally, with the mattress bare, install your upholstery attachment and vacuum thoroughly.
Work one section at a time, and don’t forget to target the crevices as well. You also want to vacuum all sides before you steam clean the mattress for deeper sanitation.
Step 2. Spray the mattress and air-dry
Fumigation refers to the usage of gaseous pesticides, but because you’re doing it yourself, you will use Borax. Note that you still need to wear gloves and a mask for safe handling. Add half a cup of Borax in a bucket with a gallon of water.
Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and dampen the bed with the Borax solution. Ensure to cover all the sides and edges of the bed before you let it air dry outside.
Does Fumigation Kill Bed Bugs?
An effective process for bed bug elimination is fumigation. This is because it kills bed bugs in all life cycles as it reaches within cracks and crevices where they can hide. Compared to contact pesticides that can’t penetrate thoroughly, fumigation can control bed bugs more effectively.
When to call an expert
It’s also worth noting that it’s best to assess the severity of the infestation. You might also be dealing with bed bugs all over the house and not just your bedroom. Consult a specialist for a recommended program to handle the issue.
The specialist will do the fumigation himself with the right chemicals and procedure. On your side, you will prepare the site, and you may need to lodge somewhere else until the process is finished. Then, wait for the fumigator’s clearance to re-enter your home and ask for a fumigation certificate afterward.
How Much Does It Cost To Fumigate A Mattress?
The amount you’ll spend to fumigate a mattress can range from $500 to $1,500. Remember that you can choose between fumigating yourself using Borax or hiring a professional that will provide a rate according to the size of your home. Note that you also need to account for other potential expenses, such as lodging in another place if the infestation is heavy.
How Long After Bed Bug Fumigation Is It Safe?
Your fumigator will advise you when it will be safe to re-enter your home after the treatment. This can take up to five hours, depending on the procedure. You can also consult a health professional if you or any other family member has a condition that requires particular caution before re-entering a fumigated home.
After the treatment, make sure to aerate your house by opening all the windows and doors. You also want to clean every area, especially the kitchen and the bathroom where you use personal things. And after the treatment, make sure to vacuum thoroughly for additional cleaning and safety measures for four consecutive days.
Can I sleep in my bed after bed bug treatment?
According to Michigan State University, you can sleep in your bed after the bed bug treatment. However, if you left any items inside the bedroom, you must wash them in hot water under the hot cycle for half an hour. It’s also best to use new beddings just in case. Furthermore, remember to use the proper covers on the box springs and mattresses as added protection for any potential surviving bed bugs.
Can You Sanitize A Mattress?
Homemade disinfection
Try cleaning the mattress by spraying it with white vinegar. Do not oversaturate the bed, and remember to blot it off after 10 minutes. Then, let the baking soda sit on the mattress for several hours before vacuuming it off.
Steam cleaning
If you know how to steam clean a mattress, it can be a helpful procedure for sanitation. Steam cleaning is also effective for stain removal and even the eradication of allergens such as dust mites. However, please do not soak the bed too much to dry it quickly.
Disinfectant spray
Test a disinfectant spray on a hidden portion of the bed to check for any staining. Make sure that it’s also free of bleach that can damage the mattress material. After checking, mist the mattress and allow it to air-dry.
Conclusion
Bed bugs require fumigation to guarantee their eradication. In this article, you have learned how to fumigate a mattress with Borax. You only need to mix it with water and spray the bed thoroughly.
However, heavier infestations require the help of a professional because they are licensed to use chemicals properly. Overall, seeing bed bugs is not immediately the end of your beloved bed. Just remember to address the issue as soon as possible and ensure that you’re not bringing them to the other areas of the house.
Worms on a mattress which no I One sleeps on only 6 years old