Downloadable prep sheet

 Alpha Pest Bed Bug Preparation Steps 

• The greater the preparation, the more effective the treatment will be. Little to no preparation will mean poor results, and we may refuse to treat the residence or reschedule.

 • We understand this can feel daunting and stressful. If you need assistance with preparation please call us about our prep services. 718-721-7378

• Inform us of any health issues, such as: pregnancy, asthma, reduced lung capacity, etc. It is recommended that small children vacate the premises for a full 24 hours. Do not touch treated areas until completely dry.

 • Please remember to lock up valuables and remove all breakables from all treatable areas, as the products used may affect them. 

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Things You'll Need: Vacuum, Laundry Detergent, Washing Machine, Dryer, Garbage Bags, and Sealed Storage Bags/Bins or Duct Tape, Patience! 

Step 1 Prior to extermination, remove all bedding from mattresses, gather all linens, and all clothing, etc. from living space. This includes any textile materials that are machine washable - pillows, mattress covers, school bags, anything - and all items that must be dry-cleaned. Even fabric that is in storage should be collected. Wash bedding and all clothing/fabrics in HOT water. and dry in the dryer on hottest setting. Follow garment instructions, you want to use heat to kill bed bugs in garments.

 Step 2 After washing, place items in clean, bed bug free storage bins or garbage bags. Seal to prevent bugs from entering and hiding in the clean fabrics. Keep access only to what you will need for a week. All other clothing will remain in storage until your home is determined pest free. 

Step 3 Empty all other non-washable items from closets in rooms where bugs have been found, or closets in which any fabrics, linens, towels, etc. have been stored. The exterminator will need access into these spaces. Vacuum all these items and store in bins or bags sealed to prevent bugs from gaining access. 

Step 4 Unplug electronic devices in rooms being exterminated. This will make the area more accessible to the exterminator. Remove all electrical outlet and light switch plates if possible. Remove wall mounted lights if applicable. The exterminator will need access into these spaces and will remove them if you don't. 

Step 5 Vacuum floors, carpets, nooks and crannies, rugs (if not machine washable), couch and cushions, etc. Vacuum a small amount of baby/talcum powder into the vacuum to prevent any insects from escaping. Place vacuum bag into garbage, double bagged and tied in a garbage bag and discard immediately.  

Step 6 Move objects away from perimeter of rooms. For example, if your sofa, dresser or bed is positioned against a wall, pull it away from the wall. The exterminator will need access to the perimeter of the rooms where bugs have been found (bedrooms, living room, den/study). Vacuum along the perimeter of the room if you were unable to before, the exterminator will need access to these spaces. 

Step 7 Empty wooden bookshelves, desks, dressers, etc., and place items in storage bins, work in the room where bed bugs where found. Bed bugs can and will seek refuge between the boards of wooden furniture. This may include coffee tables, television stands, bed frames, photo frames, and box springs. The exterminator will need access into these spaces. Art will need to be removed from the wall. 

Step 8 Remove or at least cover all fish/reptile tanks. Turn off air to animal tanks. Remove any pet food that is out in the open. Be prepared to remove any animals - cats, dogs, birds, for several hours. You will need to air out the space prior to returning pets to the treated areas. 

Step 9 Make sure to leave a contact number where the exterminator can reach you should he have a question while treating your home. 

Step 10 Wait for all mattresses, sofas, etc. to dry completely before using them. The treatment used to exterminate the premises will irritate your skin if still wet. 

FYI 

- Following extermination, seal your mattress, and box spring Protect- A-Bed Bed Bug proof mattress/box-spring protectors, this will help if you get an infestation in the future. Ask us about this and a technician will provide one and install it for you during the follow up visit.   

- Do not throw anything away unless completely sealed in plastic bags. Any upholstered items, couches, or chairs that are infested may need to be thrown out. Let the professional exterminator determine what to save. If throwing furniture out, spray paint to discourage someone from bringing it back into the building. Wrap completely in plastic prior to moving the item out of your home.  

 - Be prepared for follow-up exterminations. Bed bugs are persistent and they don't care how much time and money you spend trying to get rid of them. Two visits are the minimum required, again proper prep will allow for total elimination.  

 -Many bed bug infestations are the result of travel - people pick up bugs in hotel and motel rooms and transport them home in their luggage. Visually inspect mattresses before sleeping on them and your luggage before settling in at home after a trip. Bed bugs are easier to avoid than get rid of!   

- Suffering a bedbug infestation does not mean you keep an untidy home or that you live in unfit conditions. They are extremely common and indiscriminate - presence of bed bugs does not reflect your personal hygiene habits or socioeconomic status.