If you’re not a fan of creepy crawlies, this news might make you uneasy. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has recently been named one of the top U.S. cities struggling with bed bugs. A report by pest control company Orkin shows that Milwaukee has jumped 15 spots on the list of cities that had the most bed bug treatments between December 2022 and November 2023. The city is now ranked 25th in the country, signaling that bed bug problems are on the rise.
What Are Bed Bugs?
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects, about the size of an apple seed, measuring roughly 3/16 inch long. They are nocturnal creatures, feeding on human blood while people sleep. Bed bugs are often found in beds, sofas, and other soft furniture, as these places provide a perfect hiding spot for them. Despite their small size, bed bugs can cause big issues if not caught and dealt with early.
A major bed bug outbreak in Paris last year grabbed attention worldwide, prompting U.S. cities to take more precautions and stay vigilant about these pests. Milwaukee’s recent ranking highlights the growing concern over bed bugs in the U.S.
Why You Should Be Concerned
According to Ben Hottel, a pest control expert at Orkin, many people assume that bed bugs are a problem only when traveling. However, the threat can be much closer to home. Bed bugs are sneaky and can easily hitch a ride into your home on second-hand clothes, furniture, or even bags. Once they get inside, they can spread quickly if not spotted early.
Hottel advises homeowners to carefully check anything that enters their home, especially second-hand items, to avoid bringing bed bugs in unnoticed. Catching them early makes it much easier to handle and prevent an infestation.
Tips to Keep Bed Bugs Away
Experts suggest taking a few simple steps to reduce the chances of a bed bug infestation in your home:
- Regular inspections: Frequently check your mattress, headboard, and baseboards for signs of bed bugs.
- Look in unexpected places: Bed bugs can hide in places you might not expect, such as behind picture frames, inside electrical outlets, and even behind wallpaper.
- Declutter your home: Reducing clutter around your house gives bed bugs fewer hiding spots, making it easier to spot and deal with them if they appear.
- Be cautious with second-hand items: Before bringing in second-hand furniture, clothes, or bags, carefully inspect them for bed bugs.
Even if you don’t think you have bed bugs, regular checks can help you catch any issues early and prevent a more significant problem later on.
Top 20 U.S. Cities with the Most Bed Bugs
Based on Orkin’s data, here are the top 20 U.S. cities that had the highest number of bed bug reports from December 2022 to November 2023:
- Chicago
- New York
- Philadelphia
- Cleveland-Akron, OH
- Los Angeles
- Detroit
- Washington, D.C.
- Indianapolis
- Charlotte
- Champaign, IL
- Columbus, OH
- Cincinnati
- Atlanta
- Grand Rapids, MI
- Denver
- Baltimore
- Richmond, VA
- Greensboro, NC
- St. Louis
- Youngstown
Milwaukee ranks 25th, but its rapid rise in rankings points to the growing challenge of managing bed bugs in the area.
Bed bugs may be tiny, but they can cause major headaches if left unchecked. Regularly inspecting your home, especially second-hand items, can help you avoid an infestation. Milwaukee’s rise in the ranks serves as a reminder that bed bugs are not just a concern while traveling—they can easily spread into homes. By staying vigilant, keeping your home clean, and checking for signs of bed bugs, you can avoid the stress and hassle of dealing with an infestation.
