They're creepy, they're crawly, they're microscopic, and they're sweet on your skin. Bed bugs are gross, and new research shows New Jersey is surrounded by them.

The red/dark brown nocturnal insects come out at night to feast on your live and dead skin cells. Ew. They're primary food source is BLOOD! Yours! Worst of all, they're so hard to spot.

Orkin, the pest/termite control and prevention people, recently conducted a year-long study to determine the Top 50 Bed Bug Cities in America.

via GIPHY

The list is based on data from metro cities where Orkin exterminated bed bugs in both residential and commercial spaces.

Unfortunately, you might want to think twice the next time you're planning a sleepover at hotel, motel, or home rental in Philadelphia. According to Orkin, Philly is the THIRD MOST INFESTED bed bug city in the U.S., bested only by New York City (#2) and Chicago (#1).

via GIPHY

Nearby Baltimore, Maryland and Washington D.C. land at #8 and #9 on the list.

SoJO 104.9 FM logo
Get our free mobile app

Orkin calls bed bugs 'resilient' and 'hard to control' but visible if look REALLY closely. Sometimes on sheets and pillowcases, you'll see tiny little brown and red spots. That's a sign bed bugs may be calling your sleeping spot home.

During the day, bed bugs can reportedly hide on mattress tags, on baseboards, even on picture frames and electrical outlets.

via GIPHY

Reducing clutter around your home, especially in your bedroom, can keep bed bugs at bay. Also, if you're buying furniture second hand, examine it closely. And when traveling, try not to put your suitcase on the floor. Use a luggage rack or other hard surface so you don't bring the bed bugs home with you.

5 Bugs You Should Kill On Sight in Pennsylvania

These insects are NOT your friends.

Gallery Credit: Kayla Thomas

Classic Rockers Who Have Their Own Hot Sauce Brands

Whether it is needing a sauce to cover bland food on tour or wanting a vegan option to adhere to their diet, these classic rockers have taken their love for hot sauce to the next level. From Alice Cooper to Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top, rockers are lending their names and their music to help market their favorite hot sauces.

Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll

More From SoJO 104.9 FM