Kansas is facing an escalating bed bug crisis, with several cities reporting persistent and widespread infestations. According to the 2025 Terminix ranking of the top 50 bed bug-infested cities in the U.S., Kansas City stands out as a major hotspot, but the problem extends to other urban centers across the state. Here’s a look at five Kansas cities actively battling bed bug outbreaks and the strategies being deployed:
1. Kansas City
Kansas City consistently ranks among the nation’s top cities for bed bug infestations, with local pest control companies reporting a surge in cases across homes, apartments, hotels, schools, hospitals, and even public transportation. The city has seen libraries, such as the Shawnee branch, temporarily close due to infestations, and public spaces like airports and movie theaters have also been affected. Kansas City is responding with:
- Aggressive professional pest management, including heat treatments and fumigation.
- Public education campaigns during Bed Bug Awareness Week to promote prevention and early detection.
- Routine inspections in schools and multi-unit dwellings to curb cross-unit spread.
2. Overland Park
As part of the Kansas City metropolitan area, Overland Park faces similar bed bug challenges. Local pest control branches offer comprehensive inspection and treatment services, including customized plans for residential and commercial properties. The city emphasizes:
- Early intervention through professional inspections.
- Community outreach to inform residents about prevention and reporting.
3. Shawnee
Shawnee, a suburb of Kansas City, has been in the spotlight after its public library was forced to close for deep cleaning following a bed bug discovery in returned books. The city’s response includes:
- Enhanced inspection protocols in public facilities.
- Collaboration between library staff and pest control experts to prevent recurrence.
4. Olathe
Olathe, another Kansas City suburb, is not immune to the bed bug surge. Local pest management companies report frequent calls from apartment complexes and hotels. The city’s strategies involve:
- Integrated pest management (IPM) combining heat, chemical, and non-chemical treatments.
- Partnerships with landlords and property managers to address infestations in multi-unit housing.
5. Lawrence
Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence faces unique bed bug challenges in student housing and dormitories. The transient student population increases the risk of introduction and spread. Efforts here focus on:
- Regular inspections in campus housing.
- Educational initiatives for students on identifying and preventing bed bug infestations.
Common Strategies Across Kansas Cities
- Professional Extermination: Most cities rely on licensed pest professionals who use a combination of heat treatments, fumigation, and targeted insecticides to eradicate bed bugs.
- Public Education: Cities are ramping up awareness campaigns to help residents recognize signs of infestation and take preventive measures, such as inspecting second-hand furniture and luggage after travel.
- Routine Inspections: Schools, libraries, and multi-unit dwellings are conducting regular checks to catch infestations early and prevent spread.
- Community Collaboration: Effective bed bug control involves cooperation between residents, property managers, and public health officials.
Kansas’s bed bug battle is being waged on multiple fronts, with Kansas City and its surrounding communities leading the charge through professional pest management, public education, and proactive inspections. The message is clear: vigilance, early intervention, and community cooperation are key to stemming the bed bug tide in the Sunflower State.
Sources
[1] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[2] https://www.milbergerpestcontrol.com/kansas-city-bed-bug-pest-control/
[3] https://zipzappestcontrol.com/2025/05/bed-bug-awarenesspreventing-and-managing-bed-bugs/
[4] https://www.soskc.com
[5] https://www.pinnsolutions.com/blog/2022/june/kansas-city-school-officials-complete-guide-to-e/
