Bed bugs are becoming a growing concern in several Maryland cities, with infestations spreading rapidly in both urban and suburban areas.
Known for their ability to hide in cracks and crevices, bed bugs are difficult to spot but can quickly take over homes, apartments, and even businesses if not addressed promptly. For Maryland residents, it’s important to stay informed about which areas are most affected. Here’s a breakdown of the top five Maryland cities grappling with bed bug issues and how to know if your neighborhood is on the list.
1. Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland’s largest city, has been at the forefront of the bed bug problem in the state. The densely populated areas and older buildings provide an ideal environment for bed bugs to thrive. Reports of infestations in both residential buildings and hotels are common. Baltimore has seen a rise in complaints from residents and businesses alike, especially in high-traffic areas.
How to know if you’re affected: If you live in Baltimore, keep an eye out for small, reddish-brown bugs hiding in your furniture or linens. Bed bugs often leave behind dark spots (fecal matter) on mattresses or walls and may bite at night, causing itchy red welts.
2. Silver Spring
Silver Spring, located just outside of Washington, D.C., has seen an alarming increase in bed bug activity in recent years. With a mix of apartment buildings and commercial spaces, bed bugs can easily spread through shared walls and floors. Public areas like libraries, theaters, and public transportation are also common spots for bed bugs to hitch a ride and spread to homes.
How to know if you’re affected: Residents of Silver Spring should watch for signs of bed bugs, including small blood stains on sheets or unexplained bites, especially after waking up. If you’re living in close quarters with others, be especially cautious, as infestations can spread quickly in multi-unit dwellings.
3. Gaithersburg
Located in Montgomery County, Gaithersburg has experienced a surge in bed bug complaints in both residential areas and public spaces. The city’s older buildings and frequent turnover of tenants in apartment complexes make it a hotspot for infestations. Both landlords and renters are at risk if proactive pest control measures aren’t implemented.
How to know if you’re affected: If you’re in Gaithersburg, inspect your home for the signs of bed bugs. Bites typically appear in a row or cluster on exposed skin, like arms, neck, or face. Additionally, you may notice a musty odor or see the bugs themselves during late-night hours when they come out to feed.
4. Hyattsville
Hyattsville, another suburb of Washington, D.C., has become a growing concern for residents battling bed bug infestations. The proximity to the nation’s capital and the large number of multi-family housing units create an environment where bed bugs can easily spread. Hyattsville has seen several reports of infestations in both homes and apartments, prompting local pest control companies to work overtime to address the issue.
How to know if you’re affected: For Hyattsville residents, the presence of bed bugs can often be spotted by the reddish-brown stains they leave behind on sheets or furniture. Additionally, if you wake up with itchy bites or notice tiny bugs crawling on your mattress, you may be dealing with an infestation.
5. College Park
College Park, home to the University of Maryland, is another Maryland city grappling with bed bug problems. College students living in dormitories or off-campus housing are often the most affected, as high-density living arrangements can make it easier for bed bugs to spread. University housing has reported several cases of bed bugs over the years, and neighboring apartments and homes are not immune to infestations.
How to know if you’re affected: Students or renters in College Park should check for bite marks or small, dark spots on their sheets and clothing. College living spaces often have a higher turnover of residents, and bed bugs can hitch a ride in luggage, clothing, or furniture. If you’ve recently moved into a new place or hotel, it’s essential to inspect your belongings thoroughly.
Tips for Protecting Yourself from Bed Bug Infestations
If you live in any of these cities or suspect that bed bugs might be an issue, here are some tips to help prevent an infestation:
- Regularly Inspect Your Home: Look for signs of bed bugs, including small blood stains, dark spots, or tiny eggs around seams and cracks in furniture or mattresses.
- Use Protective Mattress Covers: Encasing your mattress in a bed bug-proof cover can help prevent infestations from taking hold.
- Be Cautious When Traveling: Inspect hotel rooms, public transportation, and other high-traffic areas where bed bugs can spread. Keep your luggage elevated off the floor and away from upholstered furniture.
- Act Fast if You Spot Bed Bugs: If you see any signs of bed bugs, don’t wait. Call a professional pest control service to address the issue before it becomes a full-blown infestation.
- Wash and Dry Bedding Regularly: Bed bugs thrive in warm environments, so washing and drying your bedding at high temperatures can kill any bugs or eggs hiding in fabrics.
Bed bugs may be a growing problem in many areas across Maryland, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can protect yourself and your home.
Baltimore, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Hyattsville, and College Park are among the hardest-hit cities, but other areas may also experience infestations.
Be proactive—keep an eye out for signs of bed bugs and take action as soon as you suspect an issue. By staying vigilant, you can avoid the headache and expense of dealing with a full-scale bed bug infestation.
