Not since the 1950s has North America seen the numbers of bedbug infestations it's seeing today. Scientists haven't yet determined why there has been a marked increase, but they do believe international travel, as well as the ban on DDT and other deadly chemicals may have something to do with it.
Bedbug infestations in both urban and rural areas is becoming epidemic, but that doesn't mean you should forgo thrift and antique shopping. You just need to be aware and careful when enjoying your favorite pastime to avoid bringing any used items into your home without ensuring they are bedbug-free.
Bedbugs in Upholstery
Bedbugs will hide in anything, any corner or fine crack of a dresser drawer, inside the hems of used clothing, in the weave of used linens, and behind the upholstery of antique chairs and settees. The odds of infestation are usually higher on mattresses and upholstered items than they are on wood furniture.
The first thing you should do before buying any used or antique upholstered items is to go over them with a flashlight and magnifying glass to look for signs of infestation. Study the tufting and seams, lift seat cushions and any part of the settee where you think bedbugs could be hiding. If you don't see the bedbugs, you may see molted skin and dark excrement spots. There is also a distinct smell. These are a good signs of infestation.
You may risk insulting the seller with this inspection, but better the little slight than bringing bedbugs into your home. If you suspect it has bedbugs and still want the piece, it can be made bed-bug free before bringing into your home. If you are transporting it yourself, you'll want to wrap it up tight with old sheets and duct tape to keep the bugs within the chair, not in your van or truck.
Quarantine Antique Upholstered Furniture
Leave the piece outside on a hot sunny day. If the upholstery has tears or holes, bed bugs could be hiding in the middle of the piece. If it's very worn, you probably had every intention of re-upholstering it, so now is the time to strip away all the original fabric and stuffing from the piece. Place the refuse in large garbage bags and seal them shut ready for garbage day or the landfill site.
Create a Greenhouse
Create a greenhouse effect, by covering the piece completely with ordinary saran wrap or other plastic and tape it where necessary so that it is air-tight. Heat and steam kills bedbugs and this is a perfect killing environment. The goal is to create an environment that is a steam bath with temperatures of at least 120°F. Let it sit for a couple of days before removing the plastic and taking the next step.
Remove the plastic and vacuum the frame including every little corner and crevice. Remove the vacuum cleaner bag and place it in a sealed plastic bag for garbage day. Then clean the frame entirely with a time-honored product like Murphy Wood Soap, which is known to kill bedbugs. If all else fails, a professional will do the clean-up for you, using strong chemicals and steam.
Bedbugs can be Eliminated
Bedbugs exist because they enjoy feeding on humans. They aren't there due to fifth like cockroaches, and most people can't even feel their bites. Bedbugs should not deter you from buying a great piece of antique furniture. They can be eliminated.
References
University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture
Lorraine Syratt - Lorraine Syratt is a freelance writer, gardener and part-time antique dealer. Please see her full profile for more information.
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