Information and tips to reduce the infestation risk of bedbugs
Bedbugs often go unnoticed on luggage or goods transport and are primarily found in places with high passenger traffic. They nest in gaps, cracks and crevices and behind skirting boards or bed headboards. Their bites cause intense itching. With their steam cleaners, Kärcher offers a chemical-free application that can assist in tackling the spread of parasites.
Tackling bedbugs with steam cleaners
An infestation is chemically treated by professional pest control. However, the insects are becoming more and more resistant to the remedies used. Therefore, any affected parties should take action in consultation with the pest controller. A chemical-free solution takes advantage of the fact that bugs and their eggs are killed at temperatures of more than 60°C (140°F) and below -18°C (-0.4°F).*
Application with steam
The application of steam cleaners is a supporting measure. When used properly they can reach eggs of bedbugs that sit on furniture, walls and floors and kill them with their water steam. It is important that the nozzle is slowly guided over the area so that the steam has enough time to heat and penetrate deep into the surface. Working from top to bottom: Curtains or blinds are steamed first, then the lower-lying objects such as beds or couches.
Compared to insecticide spray, the steam application penetrates better into narrow gaps, gets through fabrics and is not toxic. The hot steam is also able to kill off all life stages of bedbugs, including eggs.**
Treatment with the steam cleaner should be avoided on more sensitive materials. Thicker upholstered furniture and mattresses should also not be steamed because excess moisture damages them.
If the bedbugs have already hatched, they can grow to a size of up to 8.5 millimetres. Older bugs can therefore also be spotted with the naked eye and vacuumed with a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter and bag. After vacuuming it is necessary to safely dispose of the vacuum bag. For this, the sealed vacuum bag is placed in a plastic bag and the contents are treated with insecticides. Alternatively, the plastic bag can be placed in the freezer overnight and then disposed of in the bin.*
Take preventive measures to detect an infestation early
Bedbugs like to hide in gaps or holes in furniture, walls or floors, which must be sealed where possible. A possible infestation can be identified early if upholstery such as couches, beds and mattresses are regularly examined for signs such as small brown stains or shedding skin. Protective covers for mattresses and pillows can make it difficult for bedbugs to attack. Hygiene measures such as regular washing at high temperatures and vacuum cleaners reduce the potential of bedbugs and their eggs.
Keep your hotel and guest area clean and tidy to minimize potential spots for bedbugs by...
… setting up an action plan including prevention as well as specific actions after infestations.
… proactive training of staff on how to recognize bed bugs and how to act if an infestation is suspected.
… regularly inspecting guest rooms for signs such as small brown stains or shed skins.
… using protective covers for mattresses and pillows and maschine wash them regularly according manufacturers recommendation.
… proactive check of cracks and damage of wallpapers, skirting boards as well as loose joints in bedding and other furniture where bugs might hide.
… thoroughly inspect and clean the cleaning machines as well. They can become a hiding place for bed bugs.
… design new guest rooms in a pest safe way to avoid infestations with bed bugs as well as with parasites
Suitable products for your area of application
Steam cleaner
Steam vacuum cleaner
Dry vacuum cleaner
Keep your home clean and tidy to minimize potential hiding spots for bedbugs by...
… regularly inspecting beds, mattresses, and furniture for signs such as small brown stains or shed skins.
… using protective covers for mattresses and pillows to make it harder for bed bugs to infest.
… good hygiene like washing at high temperatures and vacuuming reduces potential of bed bugs and their eggs
… ensuring there are no cracks, crevices, or gaps in furniture, walls, or flooring where bed bugs can hide.
… avoiding purchasing used mattresses or furniture as they may harbor bed bugs.
... thoroughly inspect second-hand articles.
When traveling…
… leave your luggage packed until you have checked the accommodation on signs of bed bugs.
… avoiding leaving clothing on the floor or the bed at the hotels and other accommodations
… thoroughly inspecting your luggage after traveling to ensure no bed bugs have been introduced.
