How to Wash Clothes After a Bed Bug Infestation: Complete 2026 Guide
- Nuria
- Dec 1
- 3 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
Don’t Let Bed Bugs Linger in Your Laundry
After discovering a bed bug infestation, one of the first things Malaysians worry about is whether these pests are hiding in their clothes. If you’ve been dealing with bed bug bites, bed bug eggs, or even baby bed bugs, this guide will walk you through exactly how to wash your laundry to stop the infestation for good.
Why Washing Clothes Is Crucial After a Bed Bug Infestation
Clothes Can Be a Hidden Nest for Bed Bugs
Bed bugs don’t just hide in beds — they can burrow into:
Laundry piles
Closet clothing
Luggage and bags
If not handled properly, your laundry can spread bed bugs to other areas. Proper washing and drying is essential to kill bed bugs, larvae, and eggs.
Step-by-Step: How to Wash Clothes After Bed Bugs
Follow These Bed Bug Washing Instructions
Sort & Bag First: Sort laundry by fabric type and seal them in plastic bags.
Use Hot Water: Wash clothes in 60°C or hotter water.
High-Heat Drying: Dry clothes on the highest heat setting for 30+ minutes.
Clean Laundry Baskets: Wipe down or spray with bed bug spray after use.
Re-bag Clean Clothes: Place clean items in new sealed bags until your home is fully treated.
Note: Bed bug eggs die at 50°C – heat is the key.
Can Bed Bugs Survive the Washing Machine?
The Answer: Yes, If You Use Cold Water
Washing alone (especially in cold water) does not kill bed bugs
High heat and drying is the only reliable way to eliminate them
Use bed bug spray (Watson or Mr DIY) on baskets and around machines
Related Keywords: how to kill bed bugs, bed bug treatment, bed bug killer
What About Dry Cleaning and Delicate Fabrics?
Handle Non-Washables Carefully
Dry cleaning can kill bed bugs but confirm with your cleaner first
For delicate items:
Steam them if possible
Use bed bug spray sparingly on seams
Store in sealed containers post-treatment
Don’t forget: Baby bed bugs and eggs hide in fabric seams and stitching.
Best Practices to Prevent Reinfestation
Stay Vigilant Even After Washing
Inspect bags, suitcases, and laundry baskets
Don’t place clean clothes on untreated surfaces
Continue using bed bug treatment sprays for at least 2 weeks
Vacuum mattresses, sofas, and bed frames regularly
Monitor for new bed bug bite marks or rashes
Helpful Tip: Know the early signs of bed bugs to prevent another infestation.
Did You Know?
Quick Bed Bug Facts Malaysians Should Know
Bed bugs in Malay are known as pepijat katil
South Korea bed bugs recently surged, raising regional concern
Bed bugs are visible: about the size of an apple seed
Flea bites vs bed bug bites: Fleas target ankles, bed bugs go for arms and back
Bed bugs can live for months without feeding – even in clothing!
Conclusion
Wash Smart, Live Bug-Free
Handling a bed bug infestation goes beyond treating your bed. Your laundry is just as important. By washing clothes properly and following post-treatment care, you can protect your home from another wave of bed bug bites and unwanted pests.
When in doubt — don’t risk it. Seek professional help.
FAQ
How do I know if bed bugs are in my clothes?
You might see live bugs, dark spots (droppings), or smell a sweet, musty scent.
Can I just freeze my clothes to kill bed bugs?
Yes, but only if you freeze them at -18°C for 4 days or longer. Heat is faster and more effective.
Are bed bug bites itchy?
Yes, bed bug bites are itchy, red, and usually appear in clusters or straight lines.
What do bed bug eggs look like?
Tiny, white, oval-shaped and hard to see — often found along seams or corners.
Can bed bugs live in clean clothes?
Yes. Cleanliness doesn’t deter them. They go where their host is — clean or not.
🐞 Tired of waking up with itchy bites? Let the pros handle it.
We offer:
✅ Professional bed bug pest control in Malaysia – safe for kids & pets
✅ Proven solutions for homes, hostels, hotels, and offices
✅ Targeted treatment for bed bugs, eggs, and hidden nests
✅ Fast response in KL, Johor Bahru, Penang, Shah Alam, and more
📞 Book your FREE consultation now! Click here to Contact Us or WhatsApp us for instant booking.
🎁 Promo: Get RM50 OFF your first treatment – limited-time only!