Experts weigh in on what to learn from bed bug encounters

In the June 2026 edition of Pest Management Professional magazine, we asked the PMP Editorial Advisory Board:

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned from a challenging bed bug job?

Dr. Hamilton Allen, BCE

Fox Pest Control

“Surprisingly, the lesson wasn’t related to pesticide application. Instead, I learned the importance of customer communication, training and empathy. After three services, we eliminated the bed bugs, but the customer’s identity was impacted several months after the service. The customer called in on a weekly basis with bed bugs on his mind. Having bed bugs can be a traumatic experience for some. Instead of dismissing the customer’s concerns, we had to train our management team and office staff to listen and provide solutions even though the insects were essentially absent.”

Dr. Mohammed El Damir, BCE

Adam’s Pest Control

“Success depends entirely on thorough inspection and precise treatment execution. Because bed bugs are resilient and often hide deep in voids, even small details matter. For example, pesticidal dust must be applied carefully; excessive amounts can actually repel bed bugs and cause them to avoid treated areas.”

Michael Broder

BHB Pest Elimination

“Consider the customer’s emotions and mental state. Bed bugs, more than nearly any other pest we deal with, can deeply affect a person physically, mentally and emotionally. Knowing they are living with bed bugs can cause sleep loss and impair their rational thinking.”

Doug Foster

Burt’s Termite and Pest Control

“More than any other pest, our clients really are depending on us to help them. Bed bugs create such an emotional response and trauma for those affected that you must give your best effort every time.”

Scarlett Nolen

Truly Nolen Pest Control

“A lesson my dad instilled: An educated customer is the best customer. Knowledge is power. Partnering with the customer at the beginning is the path to success, particularly with bed bugs.”

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from Pest Management Professional https://www.mypmp.net/experts-weigh-in-on-what-to-learn-from-bed-bug-encounters/
Sacramento CA