How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs for Good (and Avoid Them in the First Place)

The expert-approved way to handle an infestation.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Bed bugs can stay hidden for up to eight weeks, so you need to be prepared for a long-haul battle. This article details how to recognize the earliest signs of a pest problem, the different types of available treatments, and top tips for preventing bed bugs from ever crossing your bedroom's threshold.

Why it matters

Bed bug infestations can be extremely difficult to get rid of and cause significant distress for homeowners and renters. Understanding the signs of an infestation and the most effective professional treatment methods is crucial for addressing this problem quickly and completely.

The details

The article outlines the common signs of a bed bug infestation, including small black spots (droppings), a musty odor, live insects, and empty shells and eggs. It then details the various professional treatment methods, including heat treatment, insecticides, freezing, steam, and fumigation. The article also notes that in some cities, like New York, the landlord is responsible for paying for bed bug treatment if there are three or more units in a building.

  • The article was published on February 16, 2026.

The players

Nicole Carpenter

A pest control professional.

James Agardy

An associate certified entomologist.

Nikki Torgerson

The owner of Advanced Bed Bug Preparation.

Diana Ludwiczak

A professional bed-bug inspector.

Morgan Wilson

A pest control expert.

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What they’re saying

“As the bedbugs grow, they must molt, or shed their exoskeleton. These cast skins are often observed near harborage locations and confirm the presence of an infestation.”

— James Agardy, Associate Certified Entomologist (marthastewart.com)

“Smelling this may indicate a more advanced infestation.”

— Nikki Torgerson, Owner, Advanced Bed Bug Preparation (marthastewart.com)

“Once you see live bedbugs, Agardy warns there is more likely a well-established bedbug population.”

— James Agardy, Associate Certified Entomologist (marthastewart.com)

“Take a flashlight and slowly inspect every seam, fold, screw hole and joint around the bed, pulling fabric back and checking cracks rather than just surfaces.”

— Nicole Carpenter, Pest Control Professional (marthastewart.com)

“This is because bed bugs hide deep in cracks, voids and furniture that homeowners can't fully access or treat effectively.”

— Nicole Carpenter, Pest Control Professional (marthastewart.com)

What’s next

To prevent infestations from worsening while waiting for professional treatment, Carpenter recommends using box spring encasements and installing interceptor traps.

The takeaway

Bed bug infestations can be extremely difficult to address, requiring professional treatment methods like heat, insecticides, freezing, and fumigation. However, the best approach is often prevention, as these pests can be challenging to fully eradicate once established in a home or apartment.