10 Tips on How to Stop Cockroaches Fast
Everyone hates cockroaches.
Not only do they look daunting, but they also have the ability to spread diseases and trigger allergies.
The good news is that there are simple and effective steps you can take today to stop cockroaches right in their tracks. In this post, we will share 10 effective tips on how to stop cockroaches and fast.
#1 Understand Cockroach Behaviour
It's important to have a basic understanding of cockroach behaviour if you want a chance to stop them. Knowing the typical places where cockroaches like to hide gives you the upper hand when you are trying to remove them. Cockroaches are nocturnal and like to hide in damp, dark places during the day, most commonly emerging at night to feed. Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid environments such as in your kitchen, bathroom and basement.
#2 Eliminate Food Sources
Cockroaches are attracted to food and water sources. This means that keeping your home tidy and clean at all times is critical. Remove any food debris right away, always use sealed containers, clean up spills immediately, and regularly dispose of any rubbish in sealed bins. Eliminating food sources, makes your home less appealing to cockroaches.
#3 Seal Entry Points
Cockroaches can enter your home through tiny cracks and gaps. This includes everything from cracks around your doors and windows to drain pipes coming from your bathroom. Always inspect your home thoroughly, especially around doors, windows, and walls. When you do identify a potential entry point, seal it carefully with caulk or weather stripping. This will help keep cockroaches out and prevent them from finding a new home in yours.
#4 Reduce Moisture
Reducing moisture makes your home less attractive to cockroaches. They love moist, damp spaces. Identify and fix any leaky pipes, dripping taps, or other sources of water. Ensure that kitchens and bathrooms are well-ventilated and dry. You may find it useful to regularly air your home and turn on any extractor fans to vent excess moisture outdoors.
#5 Use Boric Acid
Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound that is especially toxic and effective when used on cockroaches. Sprinkle boric acid in areas where cockroaches are likely or known to travel, such as under appliances and along baseboards. Just be sure to keep it well away from pets and children.
#6 Apply Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a common alternative to boric acid. It is a fine powder that is safe for humans and pets but lethal to cockroaches. When cockroaches come into contact with it, the powder damages their exoskeletons, making them dehydrate and die. We recommend applying it in thin layers in areas where cockroaches are know to be active or likely to be.
#7 Set Up Bait Stations
Cockroach bait stations can be an effective way of controlling cockroach populations. The stations use a bait to attract cockroaches. The poisonous bait is then carried back to their nests, killing others in the colony. We recommend placing bait stations in areas where cockroaches or known or most likely to be active, such as under sinks and behind appliances.
#8 Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Regularly wipe down all surfaces with a disinfectant. This will help remove any remaining cockroach droppings, eggs, or pheromones (chemical substances cockroaches release to communicate). This will not only clean your home but also remove the scents that attract more cockroaches.
#9 Regularly Inspect and Maintain Your Home
Stay vigilant by regularly inspecting your home for signs of any cockroach activity. You should check regularly for droppings, egg casings and physical sightings. Regular maintenance and cleaning will help you catch infestations early and prevent them from spreading.
#10 Consider Professional Help if Necessary
If you are unable to get your cockroach infestation under control despite your best efforts, it may be time to call in the professionals. Pest control services can offer more powerful solutions as well as customised advice to ensure your infestation is handled quickly and effectively.
Final Word
By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of a cockroach infestation in your home. Taking swift and decisive action not only helps to stop cockroaches fast but also ensures a safe and healthy living environment for you and your family.
We go to great lengths to ensure that all our DIY cockroach control products are effective, safe, and easy to use. You may also find our expert guide useful if you want to learn more about getting rid of cockroaches from your home.
We go to great lengths to ensure that all our DIY cockroach control products are effective, safe & easy-to-use. You may also find our expert guide useful if you want to learn more about getting rid of cockroaches from your home or workplace.
