Rise of the Resistance

Pesticide resistance in bed bugs is a problem. The industry is somewhat to blame for this, said Raymond VanderLouw.

“I have seen resistant populations of insects way more than I ever have previously. I’ve seen people treat with the same product over and over and over again and still not be able to take care of the bed bug issue. Like, what are you doing?” said VanderLouw, a former technical director who now works for Helena Agri-Enterprises.

According to the 2024 PCT State of the Bed Bug Control Market survey, 21 percent of PMPs said bed bug resistance was a problem they can manage. Most (42 percent) had not encountered resistance in their markets, while 33 percent found it on occasion.

More than half (54 percent) of pest control company locations have not implemented a resistance treatment protocol. Among the 45 percent that have, 83 percent are rotating product use. This involves switching to products with different active ingredients and modes of action every three months or so.

VanderLouw said continuing education is essential to beating resistance. “You’ve got to always, always keep learning. Keep up with the experts. It’s important to keep up on your skills. The way I treated bed bugs 10 years ago is not the way I treat bed bugs now,” he said.

Greg Agapie, Romans Pest Management, urged PMPs to “research what chemicals you’re using.” Give new products a try. You might find a more effective solution. “I’m looking at everything. I’m constantly trying new materials,” he said.