Bed Bug Resources
Note: We at the CCCHD do not treat, diagnose, or report incidences of bedbugs. While they are unpleasant and a nuisance, they are not considered a threat to public health. If there is an ongoing problem in a rental situation, please work with the landlord to correct the problem.
Top Ten Tips to Prevent or Control Bed Bugs
- Make sure you really have bed bugs, not fleas, ticks or other insects. Email a photo to gotbugs@ksu.edu for an entomologist at Kansas State University to identify the insect you are dealing with.
- Don’t Panic – Bed Bugs can be difficult to eliminate, but not impossible. Don’t throw out all of your things because most things can be treated and saved.
- Think through your treatment options – Don’t immediately reach for a spray can. Try other things first. Integrated Pest Management uses numerous techniques to limit your contact with pesticides. Always follow label directions or hire a professional.
- Reduce hiding places by cleaning up clutter. Use an encasement to cover your mattress and box springs. Leave in place for 18 months. This is one case when a quality product is important.
- Regularly wash and heat dry your sheets, blankets, bedspreads and any clothing that touches the floor.
- Do-it-yourself freezing is not a reliable method for bed bug control.
- Kill bed bugs with heat, but be careful, this is one method where it is best to call in a professional.
- Don’t pass your bed bugs onto others. Bed Bugs are hitchhikers! If you throw out mattresses or furniture, slash it so someone else doesn’t pick it up and take it to their home.
- Reduce the number of bed bugs to reduce bites. Vacuuming carefully and changing the bag after every use. Seal the bag in plastic and throw away outside in a garbage bin.
- Turn to professionals if needed. Make sure they are a reliable company with a good reputation. Shop around because prices vary greatly between companies and the services they offer.
General Information
Pest Control Options
Choosing and Working with a Pest Control Company
Tips for Selecting a Pest Professional
Preparing for Treatment Using Integrated Pest Management (insecticides)
Getting the Bed Bugs Out Guide
Landlord/Tenant Information
Landlord’s Guide to Preventing and Controlling Bed Bug Infestations
Talking to your Landlord about Bed Bugs
Bed bugs – Information for Moving and Storage
How to Move and Leave Bed Bugs Behind
What’s Working for Bed Bug Control in Multifamily Housing
Shelters and Group Living Facilities
Bedbugs Information for Shelters & Group Homes
Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Bed Bugs in Shelters and Group Living Facilities
Schools and Libraries
Bed Bugs: What Schools Need to Know
Bed Bug Identification and Management Guidelines for Schools
Travel
How to inspect your hotel room for bed bugs
Bed Bugs – Information for Visitors & Travelers
Other Resources
BED BUGS: Tips for shopping at thrift stores and garage sales
Guidelines for Reducing the Risk of Transporting Bed Bugs
Note: We at the CCCHD do not treat, diagnose, or report incidences of bedbugs. While they are unpleasant and a nuisance, they are not considered a threat to public health. If there is an ongoing problem in a rental situation, please work with the landlord to correct the problem.
