What method can effectively kill bed bugs in infested mattresses?

• A. Vacuuming and brushing
• B. Sunlight exposure
• C. Cold-water washing
• D. Steam cleaning

Answer: (D)

Steam cleaning uses high-temperature moisture to kill bed bugs on contact and to reach into mattress seams, tufts, and folds where they hide. This makes it the most effective option for treating infested mattresses because heat can penetrate hiding spots that vacuuming or washing alone often misses, and it can kill eggs with sufficient exposure. To use it properly, slowly move the steam head along every seam, edge, and tuft, keeping the nozzle in contact but not soaking the fabric, and allow the mattress to dry completely. After steaming, consider encasing the mattress in a bed bug–proof cover and continuing with an integrated approach (vacuuming, laundering, reducing clutter) since steam alone may not fully eradicate a larger infestation.