Bed bugs have become a persistent and growing problem across Iowa, with several cities ranking among the worst in the nation for infestations. The issue affects homes, apartments, hotels, and public facilities, prompting both residents and local authorities to take action.
Top Iowa Cities Battling Bed Bug Infestations
Based on recent Orkin reports and local news, the following five Iowa cities are at the forefront of the fight against bed bugs:
| City | 2024 National Bed Bug Ranking | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| Davenport | #29 | Problem worsening, moved up 8 spots from last year. |
| Cedar Rapids | #39 | Problem improving, fell 8 spots from last year. |
| Waterloo | N/A (but notable) | Senior living complex facing years-long infestation and a class-action lawsuit. |
| Sioux City | Previously ranked | Year-round infestations, professional exterminators report ongoing issues. |
| Marshalltown | Not nationally ranked | Local pest control companies report frequent infestations and offer treatments. |
1. Davenport
Davenport is currently Iowa’s most bed bug-infested city, ranking 29th nationally. The situation has worsened in the past year, with the city moving up eight spots in Orkin’s annual list.
2. Cedar Rapids
Cedar Rapids ranks 39th nationally. While still a significant problem, the city improved its ranking by dropping eight spots compared to the previous year.
3. Waterloo
Waterloo has faced a particularly severe and prolonged outbreak, highlighted by a class-action lawsuit from residents of a senior living complex who claim the infestation has persisted for years without adequate response from management.
4. Sioux City
Sioux City has been previously recognized among Iowa’s most bed bug-infested cities. Local exterminators confirm that infestations are a year-round concern, often spiking after travel-heavy seasons.
5. Marshalltown
While not on the national top-50 list, Marshalltown’s pest control services report frequent calls for bed bug treatments, indicating an ongoing local battle against these pests.
How These Cities Are Responding
- Professional Extermination: Cities like Sioux City and Marshalltown have specialized pest control companies offering discreet, effective, and often eco-friendly treatments, including heat remediation and chemical options.
- Legal Action and Tenant Advocacy: In Waterloo, tenants have resorted to legal action to force property managers to address infestations, especially in vulnerable populations like seniors.
- Public Awareness and Prevention: Local health departments and pest control experts emphasize education on prevention, early detection, and the importance of not bringing secondhand furniture or mattresses into homes without inspection.
- Community Resources: Cities provide resources through public health departments and housing authorities to support residents in identifying and eradicating infestations.
Prevention Tips for Residents
- Inspect hotel rooms and secondhand items for signs of bed bugs.
- Use protective covers on mattresses and box springs.
- Reduce clutter to eliminate hiding spots.
- Report any signs of bed bugs to landlords or property managers immediately.
Davenport, Cedar Rapids, Waterloo, Sioux City, and Marshalltown are among the Iowa cities most affected by the ongoing bed bug invasion. Through a combination of professional pest control, legal action, and public education, these communities are actively working to combat and contain the spread of bed bugs. However, vigilance and cooperation remain essential to prevent future outbreaks.
Sources
[1] https://eagle1023fm.com/several-iowa-illinois-cities-among-the-worst-for-bed-bug-infestations/
[2] https://www.foxnews.com/health/raging-bed-bug-infestation-iowa-senior-living-apartment-complex-leads-lawsuit-attention
[3] https://siouxcitybedbugs.com
[4] https://www.schendelpestcontrol.com/bed-bug-control/
[5] https://www.calhouncounty.iowa.gov/document_center/Public%20Health/Bed%20Bugs/Preventandcontrolinmultihousing.pdf