Understanding Bed Bugs in NYC

Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on human blood, usually at night. They hide in mattresses, bed frames, furniture, cracks in walls, and even electrical outlets. Contrary to popular belief, bed bugs are not caused by poor hygiene they can infest even the cleanest apartments.

In NYC, bed bugs often spread through:

• Shared walls and hallways

• Used furniture

• Luggage from travel

• Laundry rooms and elevators

Confirm the Infestation

Before taking action, make sure you’re dealing with bed bugs and not another pest.

Signs of bed bugs include:

• Small red or itchy bites (often in lines or clusters)

• Tiny blood stains on sheets

• Dark spots (fecal matter) on mattresses or walls

• Shed skins or live bugs in mattress seams

If you’re unsure, NYC pest control professionals can inspect and confirm the infestation.

Notify Your Landlord Immediately

In New York City, landlords are legally required to address bed bug infestations. As a tenant, you must report the problem as soon as possible.

NYC Bed Bug Laws You Should Know

• Landlords must provide annual bed bug disclosure reports

• They must hire licensed pest control professionals

• They are responsible for treatment costs in most cases

Notify your landlord in writing (email or certified letter) to create a record.

Prepare Your Apartment for Treatment

Proper preparation is critical. Whether your landlord hires a professional or you arrange treatment yourself, prep work determines success.

What to Do Before Treatment

• Wash all clothing, bedding, and linens in hot water

• Dry items on high heat for at least 30 minutes

• Seal clean items in airtight plastic bags

• Vacuum mattresses, carpets, and furniture thoroughly

• Dispose of vacuum bags in sealed plastic bags

⚠️ Do not move infested furniture into hallways this can spread bed bugs to other apartments and may violate building rules.

Choose the Right Treatment Method

Professional Heat Treatment (Most Effective)

• Kills bed bugs at all life stages

• Usually requires 1 day

• Higher cost but fastest results

Chemical Treatment

• Uses EPA-approved insecticides

• Requires multiple visits

• More common in NYC apartments

Integrated Pest Management (IPM)

• Combines heat, chemicals, monitoring, and prevention

• Often recommended by NYC exterminators

Avoid DIY foggers (“bug bombs”) they don’t work on bed bugs and can make the problem worse.

Prevent Reinfestation

Getting rid of bed bugs is only half the battle. Prevention is crucial, especially in NYC’s shared living spaces.

Bed Bug Prevention Tips for NYC Apartments

• Use mattress and box spring encasements

• Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding spots

• Inspect used furniture before bringing it home

• Be cautious with secondhand items

• After traveling, wash clothes immediately

• Place bed bug interceptors under bed legs

Know When to Call NYC Pest Control Professionals

If the infestation persists or spreads, professional help is essential.

Look for exterminators who:

• Are licensed in New York State

• Have experience with multi-unit buildings

• Offer follow-up inspections

• Provide written treatment plans

Many NYC pest control companies specialize specifically in apartment buildings and understand city regulations.

What Not to Do

• Don’t throw away furniture without sealing it

• Don’t sleep in another apartment (you may spread bugs)

• Don’t rely on home remedies like vinegar or essential oils

• Don’t ignore the problem it will get worse