Orkin released its annual list of the US cities with the worst bed bug infestations. While Philly ranked number two last year, it has dropped down a notch to number three. Chicago takes the number one spot for the third year in a row. Comparatively, New York City has switched places with Philly, and now sits at number two.
The list was curated based on Orkin treatment data between Dec. 1, 2022 – Nov. 30, 2023. It includes both residential and commercial bed bug treatments.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small parasitic insects that feed on human blood. They are typically active at night and can be found in bedding, furniture, and walls. Bed bugs can easily infest homes, hotels, and other buildings, causing discomfort and potentially spreading diseases.
Unfortunately, bed bugs are known for their rapid rate of reproduction, with females laying up to five eggs per day. A female bed bug can produce up to 500 offspring in her lifetime. With an ideal temperature and food source, bed bug populations can double in size every 16 days.
Tips For Prevention
The best way to deal with bed bugs is to prevent them from entering and infesting your home. Here are a few handy tips for bed bug prevention:
- Inspect all second-hand furniture before bringing it into your home. This includes mattresses, couches, and other upholstered items.
- Consider using a mattress encasement to prevent bed bugs from infesting your mattress.
- When traveling, inspect your hotel room for any signs of bed bugs. Keep your luggage off the floor and away from the bed.
- Seal any cracks or crevices in walls, baseboards, and furniture to eliminate potential hiding spots for bed bugs.
- Use caution when purchasing second-hand clothing or items, as they may be infested with bed bugs.
- Avoid clutter in your home, as this provides more hiding spots for bed bugs.
How To Inspect For Bed Bugs
If you feel you are dealing with an infestation, you should inspect your surroundings immediately. Orkin recommends following the acronym S.L.E.E.P.
- Survey the hotel room for signs of an infestation. Be on the lookout for tiny, ink-colored stains on mattress seams, in soft furniture and behind headboards.
- Lift and look in bed bug hiding spots: the mattress, box spring and other furniture, as well as behind baseboards, pictures and even torn wallpaper.
- Elevate luggage away from the bed and wall. The safest places are in the bathroom or on counters.
- Examine your luggage carefully while repacking and once you return home from a trip. Always store luggage away from the bed.
- Place all dryer-safe clothing from your luggage in the dryer for at least 30-45 minutes at the highest setting after you return home.
If you are dealing with a bed bug infestation, call your local exterminator for assistance.