What Do I Need to Do Before a Bed Bug Treatment?

Proper preparation is required for bed bug treatment to be effective. Completing the steps below allows our technicians to treat all necessary areas and significantly improves treatment success.

Required Pre-Treatment Checklist – Yikes Pest Control

1. Wash and Dry All Laundry on High Heat

All clothing, bedding, linens, and washable fabrics in the home must be washed and dried using the highest heat setting the material can safely tolerate. Heat is one of the most effective methods for killing bed bugs and their eggs.

Once items are clean and dry, immediately place them into large plastic bags and seal the bags tightly with tape. Items must remain sealed until after treatment to prevent re-infestation.

2. Move Furniture Away from Walls

All furniture—including beds, couches, dressers, and nightstands—must be moved a minimum of 24 inches away from the walls. This provides technicians with proper access to wall voids, baseboards, and furniture harborages where bed bugs commonly travel.

3. Vacuum Thoroughly and Dispose of Contents Properly

Vacuum all carpets, floors, mattresses, box springs, furniture, and baseboards thoroughly prior to treatment.

Immediately after vacuuming:

• Remove the vacuum bag or contents

• Seal them in a plastic bag

• Dispose of them in an outdoor trash container

  
  

This step reduces active bed bug populations and improves treatment efficiency.

Important Notice

Failure to complete these preparation steps may delay treatment or reduce effectiveness. Bed bug control is a cooperative process, and preparation is a critical part of achieving full elimination.

If you have any questions about these requirements, contact Yikes Pest Control before your scheduled service. Proper preparation leads to faster, more reliable results—and fewer unwanted guests.