This document is not final and is subject to change.
Inspection
Bed bugs will not be in the soil on a houseplant, but might crawl on the leaves or stems. They will hide around the pot or container that holds the plant. Look all around and underneath a potted plant for bed bugs. (Learn more about inspection).
Other Control Options
Isolation
Place the plant outside, away from the home or in the garden if the weather is appropriately warm. Bed bugs will not survive outdoors. If concern is too great, discard the plant. (Learn more about isolation).
Hand Wash
Use a mild soap (not dish detergent) to wash the leaves and stems of houseplants if bed
bugs are on the foliage. Pots can be placed in a bathtub or sink and washed thoroughly
in hot soapy water. (Learn more about hand wash).
Not Recommended - Vacuum, Heat, Steam, Freeze, Desiccant dust
Updated 5/23/2025