Encase mattress and box spring in bed-bug covers

What to Do

Install bed-bug-rated encasements (not just allergen covers) on both the mattress and box spring. These are fabric sacks with specially designed zippers tight enough to trap bed bugs inside and prevent new ones from entering. Leave them on for at least 18 months — bed bugs can survive up to a year without feeding.

Why It Works

Encasements serve two purposes: they trap existing bed bugs inside the mattress where they eventually starve, and they eliminate deep seams as hiding spots, making future inspections much easier. The smooth surface makes bed bugs visible during monitoring.

Tips

• Must be bed-bug-proof with bite-proof fabric and sealed zippers — standard mattress protectors will not work
• Inspect encasements periodically for tears or gaps at the zipper
• Encasements alone do not eliminate an infestation — combine with interceptor traps and professional treatment
• Cost: $30-80 per encasement depending on mattress size