Best Management Practices for Controlling Bed Bugs: An Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach

Pesticides alone should not be used to control bed bugs. The most effective program for eliminating bed bugs is one that utilizes Integrated Pest Management (IPM). IPM is the use of all possible methods in a logical combination that minimizes risk of pesticide exposure, safeguards the environment, and maximizes effectiveness. Facilities should have a pest management plan in place, to deal with pests including bed bugs, before they are a problem.
IPM methods include:
• Inspect infested areas, plus surrounding living spaces
• Correctly identify the pest
• Keep records, including dates when and locations where pests are found
• Clean all items within a bed bug infested living area
• Reduce clutter where bed bugs can hide through storage and/or disposal of items
• Eliminate bed bug habitats
• Physically remove bed bugs through cleaning
• Pesticide use, careful and according to the label directions
• Follow up inspections and possible treatments
• Raise awareness through education on prevention of bed bugs
A facility may need several cycles of inspection, cleaning, and pesticide use before bed bugs are fully eliminated. IPM also includes prevention through education of clients, residents, facilities managers, and landlords.