Banish the Bugs: How to Get Rid of Cockroaches

Learn how to get rid of cockroaches with these effective control methods, including DIY solutions and preventative measures. Discover what attracts roaches and how to keep them away for good.

Are cockroaches making themselves at home in your house? You’re not alone. Roaches are a common household pest, but with the right approach, you can effectively control them. This guide will help you understand what attracts roaches and provide practical methods to eliminate them.

What Attracts Roaches?

While the myth persists that roaches only infest dirty homes, they can thrive in any environment that provides them with food, water, and shelter. Key attractants include:

• Food debris: Crumbs, spills, and improperly stored food are major attractants.
• Moisture: Leaky pipes, damp areas, and standing water provide essential hydration.
• Clutter: Cluttered spaces offer hiding places and nesting sites.
• Garbage: Unsecured garbage cans and overflowing trash attract roaches.

Effective Roach Control Methods

Getting rid of roaches requires a multi-pronged approach. Here are some effective methods:

Boric Acid

Boric acid is a known roach killer. Mix it with equal parts sugar (to attract roaches) and sprinkle it in areas where roaches frequent, such as under sinks, behind appliances, and along baseboards. Caution: Boric acid can be harmful if ingested, so keep it away from children and pets.

Baking Soda and Sugar

A mixture of equal parts baking soda and sugar can also be effective. The sugar attracts the roaches, and the baking soda disrupts their digestive system. While less toxic than boric acid, it’s still best to keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Fabric Softener Spray

A diluted fabric softener spray can kill roaches on contact by blocking their breathing pores. This is best for immediate control of individual roaches rather than a full infestation. Mix equal parts fabric softener and water in a spray bottle.

Natural Repellents (Prevention)

While these may not eliminate an existing infestation, certain scents can deter roaches:

• Bay leaves: Crushed bay leaves can be scattered in areas where roaches are seen.
• Peppermint oil (and other essential oils): Diluted peppermint, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil sprays can act as repellents. Mix a few drops of essential oil with water in a spray bottle.
• Cucumber: Some people believe the scent of cucumber repels roaches, but the evidence is anecdotal.
• Pepper, onion, and garlic: While some suggest a spray made from these ingredients, it’s unlikely to be effective for serious infestations and can create unpleasant odors in your home.
• Neem: Neem leaves or neem oil diluted in water can also act as a repellent.

Professional Pest Control

For serious roach infestations, professional pest control is often the best solution. When choosing a company, get multiple estimates and make sure they’re licensed and insured. A thorough inspection and detailed treatment plan are essential. Costs vary based on infestation severity, home size, and treatment methods, but expect to pay $200 to $600 for a single treatment, with follow-ups costing $100 to $300. Ask about guarantees and what you can do to prevent future problems. Following the technician’s instructions post-treatment and maintaining good sanitation are crucial for long-term roach control.

Prevention is Key

Here are important guidelines for preventing cockroaches in the first place:

• Cleanliness: Regularly clean your home, paying attention to kitchens and bathrooms.
• Food storage: Store food in airtight containers.
• Eliminate moisture: Fix leaky pipes and address any sources of moisture.
• Reduce clutter: Keep your home clutter-free to eliminate hiding places.

Seal cracks and crevices: Seal any cracks or crevices in walls, floors, and around pipes to prevent roaches from entering.