Cockroaches – just thinking about these insects scuttling through your home is enough to make anyone’s skin crawl.
Unfortunately, roaches are one of the most common pests, and they are notoriously difficult to get rid of when you have an infestation. So, if you see one in your home, you need to act fast.
Read on to discover how to get rid of roaches and what you can do to prevent them from taking up residence in the first place.
About Cockroaches
Cockroaches thrive in warm and humid environments, and they seek shelter, water, and food at night.
There are two main types of common cockroaches in the U.S., the American cockroach, and the German cockroach. While both types of cockroaches are active year-round, American cockroaches are usually larger and darker in color.
Getting Rid of Cockroaches Yourself
When you spot cockroaches in your home, you have a few options to get rid of them. The first step is eliminating the food and water attracting them.
Once you’ve removed their food source, you should focus on exterminating the existing roaches and preventing any more from coming in.
Clean the House and Remove Their Food Supply
Because cockroaches are attracted to food and clutter, cleaning and decluttering your home is the best way to keep their populations at bay. Make sure your home isn’t a roach magnet by cleaning up any spills and food crumbs as soon as they happen, and do your dishes immediately and put them away.
Sweep, mop, and vacuum your house often, clean all your cabinets thoroughly (including under the sink), scrub all your appliances, and wash all your garbage cans. Don’t let trash accumulate, and invest in tight-fitting lids.
Because roaches can squeeze into cardboard boxes, keep all your food (cereal, sugar, and grains) in airtight containers. Store your pet food in a sealed container, and don’t neglect to empty and clean your pet’s bowls frequently.
Glue Traps
In areas where you have high cockroach activity, lay out glue traps so you can monitor the severity of the infestation and whether your cleaning efforts are working. The best places for glue traps are in the space between appliances and the floor, behind toilets, and under sinks.
The more roaches you find on the glue strips, the more severe the infestation.
Eliminate Clutter and Block Entry Points
Throw out all the clutter serving as the roaches’ shelter – cardboard boxes, stacks of paper, and accumulated junk.
Then, inspect your home for any possible entry points. Seal up any cracks or gaps in walls, window frames, and doors. While you’re at it, make sure you eliminate any standing water and don’t have any leaky plumbing.
Set Bait Traps
Bait traps for cockroaches are designed to attract roaches and trap them. Chemical cockroach bait stations contain an insecticide that resembles food. Roaches will take the bait, eat it, and return to their nests – taking the deadly insecticide with them.
Boric Acid
A popular home remedy for cockroaches is boric acid. Mix equal amounts of the boric acid with confectioner’s sugar and flour, then knead the mixture into dough. Place marble-sized balls of the mixture in strategic places around your home. The sugar and flour attract the cockroaches, and the boric acid kills them.
Professional Pest Control
If you have a severe infestation or are worried about how harmful commercial pesticides are for your family and pets, call a professional exterminator to deal with the problem for you.
A pest control specialist will conduct a thorough inspection, come up with an effective plan, and provide a long-term and ongoing solution.