Photo: depositphotos.com
Bed bugs are an unpleasant home pest that can contaminate mattresses, sheets, couches, and chairs and cause itchy and painful welts on the skin when they feed on the blood of their subjects. They’re also difficult to get rid of, often causing people to throw away any surface the bugs have infiltrated.
Because of bed bugs’ persistence, it’s important to hire the best bed bug exterminator to rid spaces of these pests. Exterminator services use a combination of chemical and non-chemical treatments to clear the infested areas of the bed bugs and prevent them from returning. Here are the picks for the best bed bug exterminators and some tips to keep in mind when hiring these professionals.
- BEST OVERALL: Orkin
- RUNNER-UP: Terminix
- BEST FOR PREVENTION: Ehrlich Pest Control
- BEST FOR BUSINESSES: Rentokil
Photo: depositphotos.com
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Bed Bug Exterminator for You
Customers who search online for “best bug exterminator near me” will need to consider certain factors before partnering with an exterminator. Every infestation has its own unique challenges, so customers should know their specific circumstances and the different treatment methods each exterminator employs.
Service Area and Scheduling
Many customers will type the term “bed bug treatment near me” in a search engine and select a provider based on those results. However, customers need to ensure that the exterminator they’re hiring works in their area.
Another major factor to consider is how to schedule bed bug treatment exterminator services. A bed bug infestation needs to be dealt with immediately, as it directly impacts a customer’s ability to live and function in their home. Customers should be able to contact the exterminator’s office instantly and schedule someone to come out within the day. Bed bug exterminators who do not respond quickly or are unavailable to survey the area in an acceptable time frame should not be considered for the job.
Treatment Methods Used
Generally, there are two different types of bed bug treatments: chemical and non-chemical. Bed bug exterminators typically use a combination of the two when treating a house, as pesticides alone do not eliminate bed bugs. The pesticides used will depend on where the bed bugs are and what type of material needs to be treated. According to the EPA, the pesticides most commonly used for bed bug control are:
- Pyrethrin
- Pyrethroids
- Desiccant
- Biochemicals
- Pyrroles
- Neonicotinoids
- Insect growth regulators
Exterminators also use non-chemical treatments to treat a house and prevent future infestations fully. Many methods involve heat treatments. Bed bugs cannot live above 118 degrees Fahrenheit (48 degrees Celsius), so they and their eggs will die instantly at 122 degrees Fahrenheit (50 degrees Celsius). Bed bug exterminators will often do a whole room heat treatment that raises the room’s internal temperature for 6 to 8 hours to kill the bed bugs. Steam treatment and freezing are other options available for killing bed bugs.
Technician Licensing, Certification, and Insurance
Technicians exterminating bed bugs need to be certified by every state and territory they operate in under federal law. Those who use restricted-use pesticides (RUPs) must be certified in accordance with EPA regulations and standards on a federal, state, and local level. The EPA establishes the minimum standard for competency for those using pesticides to exterminate bed bugs at all levels.
Most bed bug exterminators are technically licensed for all manner of pest control, including cockroaches, fleas, and rodents. They are also typically insured, so in the case of any on-site incidents, the customer is not liable. When customers are looking to hire a bed bug exterminator, they need to make sure that their chosen professional’s licensing, certifications, and insurance are all up to date.
Guarantee
Many bed bug exterminators will guarantee that their services are completed in a timely and efficient manner. Typically, the guarantee is that if bed bugs return to a home within a certain period, the exterminator will come back and treat the house at no extra charge to the client. The best bed bug services will be so confident in their treatment ability to completely rid a house of bed bugs that they will offer this guarantee as a display of customer service.
Bed bug service providers may only provide a guarantee for a specific area they’ve treated. For example, if they treated a bedroom for bed bugs, and then the bed bugs appear in the living room, not every provider will guarantee its treatment process. Additionally, these guarantees also may not apply to customers living in multiunit dwellings as opposed to single-family homes.
Customer Support
A bed bug infestation is incredibly upsetting to a customer, so exterminators should offer a positive customer experience throughout the process. Providers should have the ability to answer any client questions and concerns, as well as respond in a timely fashion. Even if they cannot get to a house immediately, exterminators should have 24/7 customer support availability so homeowners can find a resolution. If a bed bug technician is not immediately available, the company should provide the homeowner with DIY options to begin to alleviate the issue.
Our Top Picks
After examining the different bed bug exterminators on the market, here are our top picks for the best providers.
Photo: orkin.com
Why It Made the Cut: Orkin has high and transparent standards for its technician training and certification, meaning customers will get quality service and effective bed bug treatment.
Orkin is a national pest control provider with over 100 years of experience in the field. The company’s team of nearly 8,000 members is required to participate in a minimum of 160 hours of pest control training. Technicians are National Pest Management Association QualityPros, a third-party certification that signifies a high level of competence and skill. Technicians also receive ongoing education from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on pest-related diseases. This level of transparency instills confidence so customers know that the technician is competent and will do a thorough job.
There are over 400 Orkin locations nationwide, so the company can service most potential customers. Technicians use an integrated pest management approach to both treat and prevent pest activity with minimal reliance on chemical treatments. Customer service is only available by phone; however, it is available 24/7, so customers can get support whenever they discover a bed bug infestation.
Specs
- Service area: Nationwide
- Scheduling: Online, phone
- Certification: National Pest Management Association QualityPro, state and locally certified
- Guarantee: 30-day money-back guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone
Pros
- Integrated pest management approach to prevent pest activity and minimize dependency on chemical treatments
- Technicians receive 160 hours of award-winning training
- National Pest Management Association QualityPro–certified technicians
- Technicians receive annual education from the CDC on pest-related diseases
- More than 400 locations nationwide
Cons
- Customer service only available by phone
Photo: terminix.com
Why It Made the Cut: Terminix has over 90 years of experience providing excellent service by protecting homes from pest infestations and eliminating them for good.
Terminix is a nationwide exterminator provider and widely recognized name in pest management. Terminix does not require any preparation, like bagging up infested items, before its technicians arrive, which can alleviate some stress for many customers. The company also offers a generous 6-month retreatment guarantee so customers know their homes will be protected in the future.
Terminix’s online scheduling feature can be a bit difficult for users to find and use. However, homeowners can always call the company directly to quickly and easily schedule treatment. Customers can also reference Terminix’s extensive online pest management resources from experienced entomologists to learn more about pest control and prevention.
Specs
- Service area: Nationwide
- Scheduling: Online, phone
- Certification: State and locally certified
- Guarantee: 6-month retreatment guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone and live chat
Pros
- Customer not required to prepare home for technician’s arrival
- Generous 6-month retreatment guarantee
- Comprehensive pest management resources and blog
Cons
- Online scheduling can be difficult
Photo: jcehrlich.com
Why It Made the Cut: Ehrlich Pest Control has specialized plans for customers looking to prevent bed bugs and other pest infestations.
Ehrlich Pest Control uses advanced detection and prevention methods to ensure customers get rid of bed bugs and keep them away for good. Customers can only schedule appointments over the phone; while customers can submit an email request for service, an Ehrlich representative will call back to schedule the appointment. Technicians use passive, active, and canine detection methods when treating a home. Ehrlich’s multifaceted detection process ensures that all bed bugs in the home are located and can be efficiently eradicated. Ehrlich also offers a pestfree365 plan that treats and prevents 36 of the most common household pests year-round, including bed bugs. Technicians are National Pest Management Association, GreenPros meaning they have received training on environmentally responsible products.
Specs
- Service area: 20 states
- Scheduling: Phone
- Certification: National Pest Management Association GreenPro, state and locally certified
- Guarantee: Customer satisfaction guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone, email, and live chat
Pros
- The pestfree365 plan treats and prevents 36 of the most common household pests year-round
- In-depth bed bug detection process that employs active, passive, and canine methods
- National Pest Management Association GreenPro–certified technicians
Cons
- Scheduling only available by phone
Photo: rentokil.com
Why It Made the Cut: Rentokil is equipped to tackle bed bug infestation and prevention in various commercial markets, from hotels to health-care facilities.
Rentokil is a large parent company for other subsidiary companies, including Ehrlich Pest Control on the East Coast, Western Exterminator on the West Coast, and Presto X in the Midwest and South. The Rentokil family of brands is equipped to handle larger, commercial jobs that residential exterminators can’t handle. The exterminators use the PROTECT+ system, which is the company’s custom mix of products and processes for extermination and ongoing protection. Technicians focus their bed bug treatment methods by industry so that every business can get the most efficient treatment without compromise. It’s unclear if the company has any third-party certifications, but concerned customers can reach out to a support representative for this information. Rentokil technicians have access to ongoing webinars and educational materials, so it’s clear that there is an emphasis on ongoing education for exterminators.
Specs
- Service area: Nationwide
- Scheduling: Phone
- Certification: State and locally certified
- Guarantee: Customer satisfaction guarantee
- Customer support: 24/7 by phone and email
Pros
- PROTECT+ system delivers proprietary mix of products and protocols for ongoing protection
- Targeted bed bug and pest control services for various commercial industries
- Comprehensive industry-specific library of resources such as webinars, checklists, infographics, and more
Cons
- Third-party certification status is unclear
Our Verdict
Homeowners looking to hire a professional bed bug exterminator can’t go wrong with hiring either Orkin or Terminix. Orkin has been offering its services for over a century and has established itself as a standout for its nationwide range of services and easy booking process. Terminix is another excellent option. The company offers customized treatment plans by its on-staff entomologists, who have a combined 560 years of experience in pest control.
How We Chose the Best Bed Bug Exterminators
To determine the best bed bug exterminators, we extensively researched companies nationwide and evaluated their customer service, eco-friendliness, the extent of their offerings, and more. Our list is composed of companies that have highly respected brand reputations, proper certifications, and are established within their industry.
All companies that made the list offer excellent customer service to their clients, with 24/7 contact options to get help anytime, day or night. Each boasts a wide service range, with locations spread across the country. Additionally, each provider’s technicians back their work by offering guarantees for their services.
Before You Hire the Best Bed Bug Exterminator for You
Before hiring a bed bug exterminator, customers should ensure the chosen company offers the right services for their specific problem, as each infestation will require a different solution. The professional should have the proper certifications and credentials for the job and offer a guarantee or warranty to back their services. Before committing, customers can ask friends and family members for recommendations and check reviews online.
Although exact extermination methods will depend on the scope of the infestation, an exterminator should be able to provide an idea of the treatment they’ll use. Be aware that the problem may not be resolved in one visit; the exterminator may have to come back to conduct multiple treatments to get rid of the infestation.
To prepare for an exterminator, make sure all furniture is pushed at least 2 feet from the walls and doesn’t have anything piled on it—a professional may need to inspect or take apart furniture during the inspection. All food should be put behind closed cabinets and pets should be removed from the house.
Cost of Hiring the Best Bed Bug Exterminator for You
Hiring bed bug exterminators typically ranges between $300 and $5,000, based on the services required. For example, a small home with minimal pests will likely be cheaper than a large apartment building with a bed bug outbreak because of the number of chemicals used and the time the treatment takes. Some exterminators will offer a quote for the entire job, while others charge a flat fee per room.
Many factors go into determining the price of a bed bug treatment. The more bed bugs you have, the more expensive your treatment will be. However, other factors impact the price as well, such as the size of the space and the kind of treatment needed (thermal treatments cost less than fumigation, steam, or freezing). Other costs could impact the price as well, such as necessary renovations due to removing or replacing carpeting or disposing and replacing furniture.
The Advantages of Using the Best Bed Bug Exterminator for You
While a DIY approach may seem like the most cost-effective option, it often winds up costing more than using a professional service. Therefore, customers will benefit from using one of the best bed bug exterminators rather than taking matters into their own hands.
A professional can ensure that pests are removed from the home safely and effectively without unnecessary chemicals or ineffective treatments. In addition, professionals are trained to determine and address problem areas that the average person wouldn’t be able to spot, helping to keep pests out long-term. Their foresight means customers can save money and feel better in their homes, knowing they’ve taken precautions to avoid future infestations.
- Bed bug exterminators can catch problems before they get worse, ultimately saving money and helping to avoid future infestations.
- Professionals have powerful equipment and have been trained on how to safely fumigate a home and exterminate bed bugs without causing damage.
- Experts understand the dangers of pesticides and have methods to avoid using the dangerous chemicals unless necessary.
FAQs
Bed bugs are difficult pests to eradicate. Having the right help is critical in removing bed bugs and keeping them away. Here are some frequently asked questions for those who may have additional queries before choosing to work with a bed bug exterminator.
Q. How long does it take for an exterminator to get rid of bed bugs?
The typical length of time it takes for an exterminator to remove bed bugs from the premises is between two and four treatments over a 3- to 6-week period.
Q. How do you get rid of bed bugs permanently?
Permanently getting rid of bed bugs usually requires the help of a professional for the best results. To prevent these pests from returning, homeowners should conduct additional upkeep tasks such as frequent vacuuming, washing clothing in temperatures over 120 degrees, and freezing items unable to handle the heat needed to kill bed bugs.
Q. Should you call an exterminator for bed bugs?
An exterminator is a great option for ridding a home of pests including cockroaches, ants, wasps, and bed bugs. However, not all pest exterminators offer bed bug extermination, making it crucial for homeowners to do their research when searching “best bed bug exterminator near me.” Call a bed bug exterminator at the first sign of bed bugs before the infestation gets out of control.
Q. Why is bed bug treatment so expensive?
Bed bugs are resilient creatures, making it difficult to kill them with common pesticides. Bed bug treatment requires specialized equipment and chemicals to get the job done right and keep bed bugs away for good.
Q. What is the fastest way to get rid of bed bugs?
The fastest way to get rid of bed bugs is to utilize a steam-cleaning method. Bed bugs and their eggs are killed at 122 degrees Fahrenheit. Steaming equipment reaches temperatures of 212 degrees Fahrenheit or higher which will immediately incapacitate bed bugs. The best bed bug traps or best bed bug sprays can also be effective complements to steam cleaning.
Q. What kills bed bugs naturally?
A natural way to kill bed bugs is to use very cold temperatures (such as freezing infested bedding or pillows for several days) or hot temperatures (such as washing clothing or bedding in extremely hot water).
