Controlling Bed Bugs Safely

Bedbugs can cause itchy bites on people and pets. Unlike most public-health pests, however, bedbugs are not known to transmit or spread diseases.

Safe Use of Pesticides

Because bedbug infestations are so difficult to control, pesticides are sometimes used improperly. Using the wrong pesticide or using it incorrectly can make the applicator, residents or pets sick. It can also make the home unsafe to live in – and may not solve the problem.  

If you need to need to use pesticides, read the label first:

• Follow directions for use.
• Make sure it says the product can be used for use on bedbugs. If bedbugs are not listed, the pesticide has not been tested for bedbugs and may not be effective.
• If there is no EPA registration number, it has not been reviewed by EPA to determine how well the product works.
• Make sure the pesticide is been approved for indoor use.

Never:

• Apply a pesticide indoors that is intended for outdoor use.
• Apply more pesticide than the label allows

Non-chemical Control Methods

Pesticides are only one tool to use in getting rid of bedbugs. Including prevention and non-chemical treatment in your approach is the best way to avoid or eliminate a bedbug problem. For example:

• Remove clutter where bedbugs can hide 
• Use mattress covers designed to contain bedbugs 
• Seal cracks and crevices 
• Vacuum rugs and upholstered furniture thoroughly and frequently, and under beds (take the vacuum bag outside immediately and dispose in a sealed trash bag) 
• Wash and dry clothing and bed sheets at high temperatures (heat can kill bedbugs) 
• Place clean clothes in sealable plastic bags when possible 
• Be alert and monitor for bedbugs so they can be treated before a major infestation occurs 

More Information

EPA Bed Bug Information

Documents

• Bed Bug Q&A (50.46 KB)
• Tenants' Rights and Bed Bugs (83.72 KB)
• Bed Bug Poster (48.16 KB)
• Bed Bug Brochure (2.04 MB)
• Bed Bug Brochure En Espanol (703.84 KB)