Insect Invasion: 6 Michigan Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught

Published On: August 20, 2025

Insect Invasion: 6 Michigan Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught

Michigan has been grappling with a disturbing surge in bed bug infestations in several of its major cities during 2024 and 2025. Bed bugs, small nocturnal insects known for feeding on human blood, have made homes, hotels, and apartment buildings increasingly difficult to inhabit without fear of being bitten. The resilient pests spread rapidly by hitchhiking on luggage, clothing, and furniture, making them a formidable challenge for residents and pest control professionals alike.

Michigan’s Hardest Hit Cities

According to Orkin’s 2025 annual bed bug city rankings, six Michigan cities have been identified as hotspots battling severe bed bug problems:

Detroit ranks 3rd nationally, up from 6th place last year. Detroit’s dense housing and high travel volume make it an ideal environment for bed bugs to thrive.

Grand Rapids moved up seven spots to 7th place, reflecting a significant rise in reported infestations.

Flint jumped to 16th place with more frequent infestations reported in residential and commercial settings.

Lansing cracked the top 50 list at 48th place, showing an increase in bed bug sightings.

Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo have also reported growing numbers of infestations, prompting increased local efforts.

Saginaw is another city facing ongoing bed bug challenges, particularly in multi-unit housing complexes.

These rankings are based on treatment data collected from May 2024 through May 2025, reflecting both residential and commercial pest control activities.

Why Are Bed Bugs Thriving in These Cities?

Michigan cities with high population densities and frequent travel, such as Detroit and Grand Rapids, provide ideal conditions for bed bugs to spread. These pests use luggage and personal belongings as transport, enabling them to move easily from hotels, public transportation, and apartment complexes into homes. Once inside, they hide in cracks, mattresses, and furniture, making detection difficult. Their resilience means that infestations can quickly grow if not addressed promptly.

Local Efforts to Combat the Infestation

Many Michigan cities have launched campaigns to raise public awareness about preventing and managing bed bug infestations. Key efforts include:

Education programs to teach residents how to identify bed bugs and recognize early signs of infestation.

Encouraging hotel and property owners to implement routine inspections and professional treatments.

Local health departments providing guidance and support for tenants and landlords to ensure timely treatment.

Pest control companies promoting advanced treatment methods, including heat treatments and chemical applications, to effectively eliminate infestations.

Tips for Residents to Protect Themselves

Residents in affected cities are urged to take preventive measures, such as:

Inspecting hotel rooms carefully when traveling, checking beds, furniture, and luggage storage areas.

Washing and drying clothing on high heat after trips.

Keeping clutter to a minimum at home to reduce hiding spots for bed bugs.

Reporting suspected infestations promptly to landlords or property managers to avoid worsening spread.

The rise of bed bug infestations in six major Michigan cities highlights a broader national challenge that requires vigilance, education, and coordinated action. While the pests are small, their impact on health, comfort, and property value is significant. Michigan’s ongoing efforts, backed by expert pest control solutions and informed residents, are vital in the fight against these persistent invaders.