News Summary
According to Orkin’s 2025 ranking, four Michigan cities, including Detroit, have been listed among the worst in the nation for bed bug infestations. Chicago holds the title for the worst bed bug city for the fifth consecutive year. The data reveals an alarming increase in bed bugs, particularly in urban centers like Lansing, which has made the top 50 list for the first time. The state has also seen notable incidents resulting in temporary closures of public libraries due to the pests. Immediate professional intervention is advised for those noticing signs of infestation.
Detroit, Michigan – Four cities in Michigan have been identified among the worst in the nation for bed bug infestations, according to Orkin’s annual ranking for 2025. The cities listed are Detroit, Cleveland, Los Angeles, and Indianapolis, with Chicago maintaining its reputation by being ranked as the worst bed bug city for the fifth consecutive year.
Orkin compiles its list based on treatment data from residential and commercial properties within various metropolitan areas where the company carried out the highest number of bed bug treatments from May 2024 to May 2025. This year’s results show that Lansing has entered the top 50 bed bug cities for the first time, signifying a concerning rise in infestations in the region.
Bed bugs are small, nocturnal insects that feed exclusively on blood. They typically measure about 3/16 of an inch in size and can range in color from red to dark brown. These pests are known for their ability to travel easily, often clinging to personal belongings such as luggage and purses. As bed bugs are incredibly resilient, they pose a significant challenge for pest control efforts. Experts advise that individuals seek professional assistance immediately upon noticing signs of bed bugs.
Challenges in Bed Bug Control
In the realm of pest management, bed bugs are recognized for their difficulty in elimination, leading to a steady demand for pest control services. The data reveals a consistent increase in bed bug control treatments, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic era, underscoring the growing public awareness and concern regarding these infestations.
Comparative Rankings by Terminix
In a related report, Terminix has also tracked bed bug activity across the United States. According to their data from 2024, Detroit was listed as the only Michigan city ranked 17th in the nation for worst bed bug infestations. This suggests a divergence in rankings compared to Orkin’s findings, highlighting the ongoing challenge of identifying and managing pest control effectively.
Terminix noted that areas such as Ohio, Texas, Florida, California, and Pennsylvania frequently appear on their list of highly infested cities. These statistics are thought to be influenced by several factors, including local climate conditions, housing trends, and the presence of travel hubs that facilitate the spread of bed bugs.
Significant Incidents in Michigan
The prevalence of bed bugs in Michigan has prompted notable actions, such as the temporary closure of the Oak Park Public Library. The library was closed for cleaning after bed bugs were discovered in two chairs. Pest control experts subsequently found no further evidence of these pests within the building, illustrating the importance of immediate response to detected infestations.
Additionally, the Royal Oak Public Library experienced a separate incident, where the facility was temporarily closed due to cockroaches discovered in a returned DVD case. This incident underscores the necessity for vigilance and cleanliness in public spaces to manage pest populations effectively.
Preventive Measures for Bed Bug Infestations
To help combat bed bug infestations, travelers are encouraged to utilize the S.L.E.E.P. acronym during their journeys. This involves inspecting for signs of bed bugs in hotel rooms, checking luggage compartments, and remaining vigilant about potential infestations. Such proactive measures are crucial in preventing the spread of these pests to new locations.
In summary, the latest statistics from Orkin serve as a warning about the increasing prevalence of bed bugs in Michigan, particularly among urban centers. The data highlights the need for both public awareness and prompt professional intervention to manage these pests effectively and protect communities from the impacts of infestations.
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Additional Resources
- Click on Detroit: Detroit & Other Cities Ranked Worst for Bed Bugs
- Wikipedia: Bed Bug
- MLive: Travelers Beware of Worst Bed Bug Cities
- Google Search: Bed Bug Infestation
- Fox 2 Detroit: Michigan Bug Outlook
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bed Bug
