Bed bugs are small, blood-sucking insects that can infest homes, hotels, and other places where people sleep. They are notoriously hard to get rid of, and can cause itching, allergic reactions, and psychological distress. According to a list compiled by Orkin, a pest control company, the cities with the most bed bug problems in Michigan are Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Flint in that order.
Detroit: The Sixth Worst City for Bed Bugs in the U.S.
Detroit has been struggling with bed bugs for years, and ranked as the sixth worst city for bed bugs in the U.S. in 2024, the same as last year. The city has a high poverty rate, a large number of vacant buildings, and a lack of public awareness and education about bed bugs, which may contribute to the problem. Bed bugs can hitchhike on clothing, luggage, furniture, and other items, and spread from one place to another. They can also survive for months without feeding, making them difficult to eradicate.
Grand Rapids: Down Two Spots from Last Year
Grand Rapids, the second-largest city in Michigan, ranked as the 14th worst city for bed bugs in the U.S. in 2024, down two spots from last year. The city has seen an increase in tourism, business, and population in recent years, which may have brought more bed bugs along with the benefits. The city also has a high demand for affordable housing, which may limit the options for people who want to move away from infested places.
Flint: Still Facing a Bed Bug Crisis
Flint, the city that made headlines for its water crisis, is also facing a bed bug crisis. The city ranked as the 23rd worst city for bed bugs in the U.S. in 2024, down two spots from last year. The city has a high rate of homelessness, unemployment, and crime, which may make it harder for people to access and afford bed bug treatments. The city also has a low rate of reporting and inspecting bed bug complaints, which may allow the infestations to spread unchecked.
How to Prevent and Control Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are not a sign of poor hygiene or cleanliness, and can affect anyone, regardless of where they live or how much money they have. However, there are some steps that people can take to prevent and control bed bugs, such as:
- Inspecting their home, hotel room, and belongings regularly for signs of bed bugs, such as live or dead bugs, eggs, skins, fecal spots, or blood stains.
- Decreasing clutter and sealing cracks and crevices where bed bugs can hide.
- Washing and drying bedding, clothing, and other items on high heat, and storing them in sealed plastic bags or containers.
- Vacuuming carpets, furniture, and mattresses frequently, and disposing of the vacuum bag or contents in a sealed plastic bag.
- Avoiding bringing home secondhand furniture, mattresses, or clothing, or inspecting them carefully before use.
- Using mattress and box spring encasements, bed bug interceptors, and monitors to detect and prevent bed bug activity.
- Seeking professional help from a licensed pest control operator if bed bugs are found or suspected, and following their instructions carefully.
Bed bugs are a serious and growing problem in Michigan and across the U.S. By being aware, vigilant, and proactive, people can protect themselves and their families from these pests.