🔧 How-To Guide

How to Prepare for Fumigation

Fumigation (tenting) is used for drywood termites and severe bed bug infestations. Proper preparation is critical for both safety and effectiveness.

⚠️ Fumigation Uses Lethal Gas (Vikane — Sulfuryl Fluoride) Vikane penetrates every material in your home and is lethal to all mammals including humans. You cannot enter until air monitoring confirms it has cleared to safe levels — typically 24–72 hours. Do NOT enter early under any circumstance.

What Must Leave Your Home

🚫 Always Remove (No Exception)

  • All people — absolutely everyone
  • All pets — dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, fish (tank water absorbs gas), everything
  • All plants — indoor and potted outdoor plants in the tent zone
  • All medications — prescription, OTC, and vitamins
  • Any item your PCO specifically requests

🌿 Plants & Fish Notes

Indoor plants: Must be removed — they will die and absorb fumigant.

Fish tanks: Fish must be removed. Tank water absorbs sulfuryl fluoride — fish will die and the tank needs extensive cleaning before it's safe.

Outdoor plants touching the tent: Confirm with your PCO about watering and protection.

What Must Be Bagged (Nylofume Bags)

💡 What Are Nylofume Bags? Special fumigant-barrier bags that prevent Vikane from penetrating food. Your PCO will provide them or you can purchase them. ALL food and consumables staying in the home MUST be double-bagged — two complete seals.

Must Be Bagged

  • All fresh produce not in the refrigerator
  • All unsealed dry goods — flour, pasta, cereal, chips, nuts
  • All spices, seasonings, coffee, and tea
  • Baby food and formula
  • Pet food and treats
  • Alcohol and beverages

Does NOT Need Bagging

  • Sealed cans and glass jars with intact factory seals
  • Food in the refrigerator or freezer
  • Dishes, cookware, utensils (wash after re-entry)
  • Mattresses and furniture (gas penetrates and then clears)
  • Clothing and bedding (wash after re-entry)

Complete Checklist

✅ 48 Hours Before
⚠️ Day Before / Morning Of

Re-Entry Instructions

⚠️ Do Not Re-Enter Until Officially Cleared Your PCO will use a gas monitor to verify levels below 1 ppm before issuing clearance. This takes 24–72 hours. Do NOT enter early — even briefly.

Immediately Upon Re-Entry

  • Open all windows and doors for 30 minutes
  • Turn gas back on and relight pilot lights
  • Wash all dishes and cookware before use
  • Wash all bedding and clothing before use
  • Check refrigerator — power may have been cycled

What to Expect

  • No residual smell (Vikane is odorless)
  • No live pest activity — all insects in the treated area should be dead
  • No product damage — Vikane leaves no residue
  • If you feel ill at any point — leave immediately and call your PCO
📚 Sources: EPA Termite Guide · NPMA Termite Info
Published: Jun 1, 2024 · Updated: Apr 5, 2026
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Reviewed by Derek GiordanoContent on PestControlBasics.com is developed with input from certified pest management professionals and cross-referenced against EPA, CDC, and university extension guidance. Last reviewed: April 2026.