Cockroaches won't survive this killer recipe made with deadly Boric acid. The poison is natural and has a low toxicity to humans, but kills roaches when ingested.
In this "Roach-free recipe," you'll make a tasty (to roaches) poisonous dough that can be pressed into useful shapes and placed in areas roaches can find it.
Materials
½ Cup Sugar
½ Cup Flour
½ Cup Crisco Shortening
½ Cup Boric Acid Powder
Tools
Mixing bowl and spoon
Latex gloves
Work area separate from where food is prepared
Old jar lids or wax paper squares to keep greasy cookies off your floors and shelves.
Instructions
Cover your work area and put on latex gloves. While contact with small amounts of boric acid is generally considered safe for humans, it could irritate your skin.
Combine ingredients and mix into a thick dough.
Press into jar lids or roll into shapes and place on wax paper squares, then wipe down your work area and wash your tools.
Place on floor areas well away from pets and children: Under the stove, under and behind the fridge, under sinks and cabinets.
Place in elevated areas where kids can't reach: Pantry shelves, the tops of cabinets, and the top of the fridge.
Scout out other areas of cockroach signs or infestation, including corners and gaps or cracks in walls.
Check locations every couple of weeks, and replace when the dough dries out.
Use remaining boric acid as a light dust near areas of infestation. Roaches will die from walking through it, too.
Notes
For natural solutions, combine roach cookies with boric acid as a fine dust applied near roach hangouts. Certain essential oils may help, too.
For serious infestations, combine roach cookies with a gel cockroach bait approach or call in a professional.
American cockroaches (a.k.a. water bugs) are one of the biggest problem pests in the U.S. Before they can become a dangerous problem in your home, follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to get rid of American roaches like a pro by treating indoors and outdoors.
Use a flashlight and mirror to check kitchen cabinets and the spaces under and around appliances for signs of American roaches.
Focus on dark, damp places that are hard to reach but close to food sources.
Examine storage boxes thoroughly for eggs, foul odors and other signs of roach activity.
Check under rocks and in wood piles and the mulch around your house.
Look for tiny, purse-shaped egg cases. They’ll be reddish-brown, just like the roaches. Each egg case can contain over 15 eggs, so an infestation can get out of control quickly.
Exterminate: Use Insecticides to Kill Roaches
It’s time to exterminate like a pro. Start by placing glue traps in different areas of the house to see where the roaches are concentrated.
Once you’ve narrowed down the location of their nest, apply several drops of gel bait along nearby walls and surfaces. Gel bait is the most effective, low maintenance solution available. Just apply a few tiny drops, spread 2 to 3 feet apart.
To stand a better chance against large infestations, use an IGR—an insect growth regulator—that will stop them from reproducing and multiplying.
Finally, you can use a perimeter spray for ongoing protection against any American roaches still hanging around outside (some work inside, too).
Want a pet-safe solution for killing cockroaches? Check out our instructions for applying diatomaceous earth and borax powder—two natural pesticide dusts.
Prevent Roaches from Ever Coming Back
American cockroaches come from outside. Start by cleaning up any leaves, branches and piles of wood around the walls of your house.
Use a rake to spread mulch into a thinner layer to avoid trapping moisture and attracting American roaches.
Check the walls and foundation for cracks and crevices that can let roaches in. Seal them up with steel wool or caulking.
Don’t forget to seal the gaps around plumbing and wiring, too.
Inside, commit to regular cleaning habits.
Vacuum and sweep floors daily and wash dishes to eliminate roaches’ food sources.
Wipe the counter and stove top with all-purpose cleaner to scrub away grease stains and crumbs.
Use hard containers to store all leftovers, open food packages and pantry items.
Organize and declutter storage rooms.
American roaches love hiding in cardboard boxes—use plastic bins instead.
Protect Your Home
Maintain your defenses. To be a pro, it’s important to regularly inspect, repair and reapply cockroach treatments, if necessary.
Make sure storage rooms are well-ventilated and organized.
Repair any faucets that drip or pipes that leak (especially under sinks and along walls outside).
Notes
American cockroaches can fly. Use screens in all doors and windows that you tend to leave open. Don’t eat any food that smells musty or stale—it could have been contaminated by cockroaches. Read all warning labels and instructions before using insecticide products.
Cockroach Facts is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Can you ever completely get rid of roaches? That’s the question every homeowner who’s dealt with these dangerous pests in the past wants to know.
The answer… is yes!
Need Product Recommendations?
A handful of easy-to-use products can solve most cockroach problems.
We’ll show you how to get rid of cockroaches forever with a comprehensive, effective, powerful pest control solution that you can start in your home today.
Discovering Why You Have Roaches
“I keep my house clean, I keep a can of roach spray under the sink and I’ve already used a bug bomb in my kitchen… and I still have roaches!”
If that sounds like you, you’re probably wondering why you even have roaches in your clean house. You might think you’ve sealed up any food sources and killed most of the bugs with the spray. But roach bombs don’t work and those few roaches you’ve killed are signs that there are many more hiding.
To get rid of roaches forever, it takes a strategic, multi-step game plan—and we’ve put one together for you.
Let’s get to it!
The Game Plan: How to Get Rid of Roaches Forever
Our 4-step, highly effective system for killing cockroaches and keeping them out:
Pre-Game: Find the Roaches, Analyze the Opposition
1. Pre-Game: Find the Roaches, Analyze the Opposition
If you’ve seen one of the cockroaches, try to remember some details about it to help you identify the type of roach you’re dealing with. What color was it? How big or small was it? Did it have wings?
Then, try to pinpoint where they’re coming from. Some of the most common entry points include cracks in the walls, gaps around plumbing and spaces around window frames.
Sticky roach traps could help you determine which rooms have been hit the hardest. The traps that catch the most roaches will be those nearest their hiding place—their nest.
2. Offense: Gel Bait, Insecticidal Dust, IGR’s and Natural Approaches to Roach Control
You have a few good choices when it comes to killing cockroaches quickly and effectively at home. The first option is gel bait. We’ve put together a detailed guide to show you exactly how to use gel bait but here are the basics.
Suggested Products
To Find Cockroach Hiding Spots and Kill Roaches Fast When You Have Just a Few
Exterminator’s Choice Sticky Glue Traps
Used to measure and monitor a cockroach infestation and provide some supplemental control.
P.I. is a pyrethrin-based spray insecticide that kills roaches fast. Best when used as a supplement to other treatments, it’s not inexpensive, but far more effective than off-the-shelf sprays.
Insecticidal dusts like CimeXa work best when applied with a duster tool. This inexpensive diatomaceous earth duster works fine with CimeXa, Delta Dust, and other recommended dusts.
Advion first poisons the roaches that eat it, then others in a secondary kill. For the most effective indoor treatment, combine with CimeXa insecticidal dust and Gentrol IGR.
Gentrol is an insect growth regulator (IGR) that interferes with roach reproduction. It’s most effective used alongside Advion Gel Bait and CimeXa insecticidal dust.
When used on exterior foundations, entries, and walls, Suspend insecticidal liquid stops outdoor roaches before they get in. It requires a separate sprayer (see below), and works best alongside a granular outdoor bait like Intice and an outdoor crack and crevice treatment like Delta Dust.
InTice is a granular bait that kills roaches outdoors and in spaces like your garage or attic. Used alongside a spray treatment like Bayer Suspend and a crack and crevice treatment like Delta Dust, it can protect the entire perimeter of your home.
Waterproof and long-lasting, Delta Dust is a crack and crevice treatment effective in high-moisture areas such as attics, exterior walls, and plumbing lines. Delta Dust is regulated and unavailable in some areas.
Gel bait (which also comes in bait stations) brings cockroaches out of their hiding spots and then hits them with a powerful dose of insecticide. That poison is so potent, it gets passed onto more roaches within the colony that eat the first.
That effective roach-to-roach transmission is why gel bait can wipe out entire cockroach infestations. Only apply a few drops of roach bait at a time—that’s all it takes. For our more detailed Cockroach Gel Bait Guide look here.
Insecticidal Dust
Insecticidal dusts kill roaches by adhering to their bodies and damaging their shells. Roaches crawl through the dust and die of dehydration within several days. Extremely effective inside cracks and crevices, it’s a perfect complement to gel bait, giving you a powerful one-two punch when you use them both.
Insect Growth Regulator (IGR)
IGR’s deprive roaches of their ability to repopulate, leaving roach colonies that would otherwise explode on their own, to simply… fade away. Alongside baits and dusts, it brings you yet another level of control, for a nearly unbeatable (if you use them right) one-two-three punch.
Outdoor Roaches
Outdoor roach killers work in a similar way. There are special outdoor baits and dusts, and long-lasting waterproof sprays. Be careful with these products, though. They’re so effective, you may end up killing beneficial insects, too.
How to Kill Cockroaches Naturally
Gel bait is an incredibly effective roach killer but if you have young children or curious pets, you might not want to spread pesticides around your home.
DE is a fine powder that kills roaches by dehydrating them when they crawl through it, sticking to their legs and damaging their exoskeletons. Borax and Boric acid (which comes from the same mineral as borax), are similar solutions that are deadly to roaches when mixed with baits like sugar or peanut butter and eaten.
For the strongest offense, combine these solutions to hit cockroaches in the open and in their hideouts. And to eliminate any roaches that survive the baits and powders, add an insect growth regulator (IGR) so they can’t continue to reproduce.
With strategic placement and repeated treatments, these easily-accessible products could eliminate your cockroach problem in a month or less.
Does baking soda and sugar really kill roaches?
Yes, baking soda is toxic to cockroaches when enough of it is eaten. Mixing it with sugar attracts the roaches to the baking soda. Just place a little in a shallow dish and leave it out where they can find it. Don’t expect it to work as well as the products above, however.2
Does salt kill cockroaches?
This one’s a myth. Salt doesn’t kill cockroaches.1
However, epsom salt (a.k.a. magnesium sulfate) is toxic to roaches. Use it just like baking soda.3
Does lemon kill cockroaches?
Unfortunately, there’s no evidence that lemons kill or even repel cockroaches.
Does vinegar kill roaches?
Vinegar doesn’t kill cockroaches, either. However, you can use it to clean—a great way to battle roaches.
3. Defense: Seal, Repair and Repel
It’s a myth that roaches only infest dirty homes. Roaches will infest any home where they can find food and water and a dark, damp place to hide. Removing the things that attract roaches will help turn their attention away from your home.
For these pests, it’s all about finding a way in. The harder you make that, the lower the risk of a roach infestation.
Your defense starts outside, where you’ll have to seal up every crack, crevice, hole and gap you find in the exterior walls. That includes spaces where plumbing and wiring enter your house as well as vents from the bathroom or the kitchen.
Then, check for leaking faucets, blocked gutters, dripping pipes and other areas of poor drainage that could act as water sources for roaches. If possible, store your garbage away from the house. Roaches love to hide in mulch, too. By spreading your mulch in a thin layer—only about an inch deep—it’ll trap less moisture and attract fewer roaches.
If you’re still not happy with the results you’re seeing or you’re afraid there are just too many roaches to take on alone, call your local pest control service for help. They’ll do the dirty work so you can get back to enjoying your home, roaches not included.
4. Maintain: Keep Up the Good Work
Even after you’ve successfully eliminated a roach infestation, there’s always a chance more could find their way in if you’re not dedicated to your game plan. Defense is an ongoing project, so keep your eyes open for newly formed cracks, broken window screens or other potential entry points that’ll pop up from time to time.
Simple routines are all it takes to keep cockroaches away for good. That includes cleaning regularly, keeping storage rooms well-ventilated, decluttering cardboard boxes and protecting the outside of your house with caulking, steel wool or a perimeter spray.
In the kitchen, take a minute to clean out the toaster and wipe down the grease pans on the stove. Using drain covers prevents roaches from climbing up from the sewer. Finally, don’t forget to seal all food items in plastic, glass or metal containers—you don’t want roaches feasting on your leftovers or in your pantry.
Conclusion
Whether this is your first face-off against roaches or your fifth, don’t give up hope! We’ve broken down exactly how to get rid of cockroaches forever and with a little determination, you can do it!
Omg, Barb, et al. (2006) Cockroach Control Manual. University of Nebraska Extension.
How to Kill Roaches Naturally With Sugar and Baking Soda. Hunker. Retrieved from https://www.hunker.com/12137594/how-to-kill-roaches-naturally-with-sugar-and-baking-soda
Knott, Rota L. (2017) Epsom Salt Pest Control Mixture. Garden Guides. Retrieved from https://www.gardenguides.com/info_8673738_epsom-salt-pest-control-mixture.html
How to Get Rid of Roaches. Home Depot. Retrieved from https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/how-to-get-rid-of-roaches/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90c52d8e9f
Picard, Caroline and Amanda Garrity (2020) How to Get Rid of Roaches in 5 Easy Steps, According to Pest Control Experts. Good Housekeeping. Retrieved from https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/a47840/how-to-get-rid-of-roaches/
Your car might be the last place you expect to find roaches but they can hide and survive there just as well as in a house. In this printable step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to get rid of cockroaches in your car and keep them out for good.
Move the seats as far out of the way as possible, sliding them back and then forward to check underneath. Raising each seat helps, too. Use a knee pad to make kneeling on the ground more comfortable while you search.
Remove the floor mats in the front and back and check for roaches underneath. On light-colored fabrics, you might also find dark roach droppings or reddish-brown eggs or egg cases.
Empty the trunk and take out any removable storage covers. Use a flashlight to inspect the spare tire or tools compartment.
Clean and clear the entire car
Start by clearing out everything in your car, including clothes, bags, papers and garbage. Place it all in a large garbage bag. Empty the glove compartment, too.
Then, use a strong, portable vacuum to suck up dirt, crumbs and any roach droppings, eggs or body parts from all surfaces. If you don’t have a small vacuum, you can probably find one at your local car wash.
Don’t forget to wipe out cup holders, door pockets and other spaces that often collect dust, crumbs and spills.
Treat your car with effective insecticides
Apply 5 to 10 small drops of a good gel bait in different areas of the car. Using too much will cause the roaches to avoid it. Drops should be 2 to 3 feet apart.
Use sticky traps to help control a small number of roaches. However, gel bait is your best choice for killing the colony for good.
Try an application of Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) for stubborn cockroach problems.
Choose a natural cockroach killer, such as borax or diatomaceous earth, to avoid using chemicals (or in addition to a gel bait). Sprinkle a fine layer of the powder onto carpets and in the trunk.
Protect your car from roach invaders
Keep your car’s windows and doors closed while it’s parked, especially if you’re near the woods.
Check grocery and shopping bags for hidden roaches before loading them into your car.
Thoroughly inspect any garage or yard sale items, especially furniture, before transporting it. Roaches frequently hide in items long sitting in storage.
Check suitcases and laundromat clothes baskets for roach hitchhikers.
Carry firewood in bags. Sprinkle a small amount of borax or DE after you’ve carried any outdoor equipment in your car.
Clean regularly. Vacuum your car at least once a month. For a boost of freshness in your car, shampoo the mats once or twice per year. Use your favorite air freshener to take your mind off of pest control and put your focus back on the road.
Notes
The toxicity of gel baits, IGR, boric acid, and DE is low, but you don't want pets or children eating or touching it. If you transport children or pets, take precautions to keep cockroach killers out of reach.
It could take several gel bait treatments to eliminate a moderate infestation.
Avoid using roach foggers or bug bombs, as they’re ineffective and much more dangerous than the other methods discussed above.
Roaches are the last thing you should have to worry about in your car. Unfortunately, once these disgusting pests have settled in, what started as a small problem can often get much worse.
We’re going to show you exactly how to get rid of roaches in car interiors—permanently, and in a few simple steps.
Ready to quit riding shotgun with roaches and really make it stick?
Let’s go!
Print or Follow the Step-by-Step
For the step-by-step guide to print or follow on your phone
The Problem: How Do Roaches Get in Your Car, Anyway?
Let’s be clear. Cockroaches are the worst kind of passengers. They stink, go to the bathroom everywhere, and carry types of bacteria that could potentially make you and your passengers very, very sick.
Most people understand that, and while few of us would ever knowingly invite roaches into our cars, the fact is that they rarely end up there without some kind of human help.
How?
Roaches by nature are not only good at infesting our stuff, they’re also expert hitchhikers inside the things we tote around. They can hide in almost anything we buy, borrow, carry, or wear, and can hide their eggs in those things, too.
Shopping bags for example, can easily become an entry point, and if you’re unlucky enough to be handed an infested bag of groceries at the store, you could soon be in for a hideous, long-lasting surprise.
Roaches also ride in suitcases, yard sale boxes, purses and backpacks, clothes from the laundromat and other places—all of which usually make a pit stop in your car before you bring them home.
Once inside your car, roaches will stick around for the cereal your kids dropped under the seat, the hamburger wrapper you thought you threw away, and all the other tasty treats that eventually got lost inside your car.
Needing very little to survive, and delighting in all the delicious crumbs you’ve left them, roaches will happily settle in for the long term, and quickly start to breed.
How To Get Roaches Out of Car Interiors with the “Special Ops” Approach
When you get serious about ending a roach problem, there’s something that’s important to understand: roaches are extremely good at what they do, and they don’t go down without a fight.
For car roaches that means setting aside the illusion of instant or effortless solutions (we’re looking at you, worthless roach bombs), in favor of a targeted, tactical, (what we call) Special Ops approach.
A Special Ops approach hits roaches hard in a couple of different ways. It takes a little more work at the beginning, and yes—a little bit more time, but it kills roaches more completely and for the much longer term.
The first important step in Special Ops is finding where the cockroaches are hiding in your car.
Print or Follow the Step-by-Step
For the step-by-step guide to print or follow on your phone
Special Ops 1. How to Get Roaches Out of Your Car by Identifying Where They Hang Out
Finding the disgusting cockroach hideouts in your car does more than toughen up your character. It shows you exactly where you’re going to bring the fight.
The best way to begin this little task is with an exercise you’ll hear some exterminators refer to as “thinking like a roach.”
How to Think Like a Roach
Thinking like a roach is really pretty simple in a car, and sounds something like “Boy, I’m hungry. Where are all the crumbs?”
Thinking like a roach will probably lead you first to the space beneath the seats, where all crumbs, straw wrappers, empty water bottles and loose change fall, never to be seen again. You’d be surprised (unless you’re a parent) at just how much “food” collects down there —making it the perfect place for an ever-growing cockroach nest.
Next stop: the floor mats. Whether you’ve got plastic mats or fabric carpets, the stains and crumbs on top are typically only half the story. Underneath, check for tiny, car-loving German roaches or even tinier roach eggs. Flat and small, these bugs and the eggs they lay are perfectly designed to live and multiply, literally right underneath your feet.
The trunk holds plenty of areas where cockroaches like hiding, too. You might even have storage space or a spare tire compartment under the floor of the trunk that could be harboring them in large numbers.
Finally, roach thinking should lead you to areas like the tire-changing tool compartments, door pockets, glove compartment, air conditioning vents, and that fast-food-bag-turned-garbage-receptacle wedged between the seats.
Now that you’ve raided the roaches’ potential hideouts, it’s time to target those areas in two specific steps—
Special Ops 2. How to Get Rid of Roaches in Your Car by Hitting Target Areas Hard
The next part of Special Ops is taking what you learned about your tiny enemy’s comfy lifestyle and turning it against them: First taking away everything they love about your car, then killing them where they live.
Step 1: How to Make Your Car a Lousy Place For Roaches
While there’s nothing like a roach-infested car to turn one’s thoughts to murder, it’s not quite time to exterminate the little buggers yet.
What you’ll need to do first is to clean and clear out your car, removing anything and everything that could potentially provide a food source to a roach.
If you haven’t already removed the carpets, opened compartments and slid the seats out of the way, do it now. Then get in there with the best vacuum you can find and vacuum your car—every nook, cranny, crack and crevice.
If you don’t have a portable vacuum, drive to the nearest car wash. Most have powerful vacuums available for a few quarters. The vacuum is key because it’ll suck up even the tiniest crumbs from carpet fibers and let you reach into tight areas you wouldn’t be able to reach with your hand.
Then, clear out everything you could possibly live without.
Sure, if your car tends to look a little like a closet, you’re not alone. But all that clutter makes it easy for cockroaches to hide and breed. Empty your car of clothes, food containers, shopping bags and everything else that inevitably collects, piles up, and takes over.
Tip: If you use a van, truck or SUV to carry equipment, building supplies or cargo like mulch, firewood and recycling, you’re at high risk of a roach infestation. If your vehicle carries outdoor materials, be especially careful and clean as often as possible.
Step 2: How to Kill Roaches in Car Interiors Minus the Useless Bomb
We already mentioned that you shouldn’t use a bug bomb in your car, so we should probably tell you why.
For one thing, those bombs can stain and discolor your upholstery and headliner, leaving your car not only full of roaches, but looking worse than it did before.
And though a great big burst of fog might sound great for reaching every nook and cranny, it doesn’t always reach those places, or reach them with a lethal dose. The result is a car which still has roaches which have been driven more deeply in.
A better way to kill cockroaches in a car is a product called gel bait. Gel bait is a sort of sneaky secret weapon that’s applied in tiny amounts in or near the trouble spots you identified and vacuumed earlier. And it works in two exciting ways.
First, it entices roaches to eat it, slowly killing those that do. Then it spreads to others in the colony as they consume their fallen kin. A quality cockroach bait is so powerful that just a few drops can wipe out nearly every single cockroach in a car, often within a matter of days.
A suggested second step for a really bad infestation is an application of insect growth regulator (IGR) which not only attacks any cockroach nymphs that survived a round of baiting, but stimulates the entire colony to eat more bait. Pairing IGR with bait, you can completely eliminate even the worst car cockroach infestation within a single short-lived generation.
The Alternative Approach: How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in a Car Naturally
If you’re hesitant to start putting chemicals under your seats, you’ll be happy to know there are also a couple of effective natural ways to get rid of cockroaches in your car.
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is an excellent cockroach killing product and it’s virtually non-toxic. Simply sprinkle a thin layer onto carpets and under seats. It kills cockroaches when they walk through it—they don’t even have to eat it!
Borax is another natural powder that kills roaches. Boric acid, which is made from the same mineral, works too! Roaches have to eat this one though, so mix it with a little peanut butter to make it tasty, fill some bottle caps with the mixture, and slip them deep underneath your seats.
What Happens if my Pets Eat This Stuff?
Luckily, the products we suggest aren’t nearly as toxic to pets as they are to roaches. Most of the ingredients found in gel baits are food-based, IGR formulas haven’t been found to be dangerous for pets, and when borax and diatomaceous earth are used in the slight quantities recommended, they shouldn’t present any harm.
That being said, please take care to limit the amount of product that you use, and place them where pets or children can’t reach them.
Tips to Prevent Cockroaches in Your Car
Easy Mode: Close the windows.
Yes, cockroaches are hitchhikers, but some like wood roaches are little explorers, too. Many can climb steep surfaces. And some can fly. Keep car doors and windows closed to keep them out. Avoid parking near wooded areas if you can and be careful at the local dump.
Inspect after trips to a hotel, campsite or yard sale.
You can’t avoid carrying luggage, boxes and the occasional bag of mulch in your car but you can be proactive and take a good look in the trunk after you’ve dropped everything off.
Spa Day: Treat your car to a wash and vacuum.
Keep your car clean! And every few weeks take ten minutes to remove the mats, vacuum the carpets and toss any garbage that’s collected. For the finishing touch, fill a bag with all of the things that you’ve “been meaning to” take into the house and take it into the house (of course, checking everything for roaches first).
Starve Them Out
Really want to break a cockroach’s heart? Avoid eating in the car and ask others not to do it either. Without all those food crumbs raining down, roaches will have nothing left to eat but each other.
Conclusion
Somehow, our cars don’t always get the same careful treatment as our homes. But cars are still at risk for roach infestations and it’s just as important to protect them.
Now that you know how to get rid of roaches in car interiors, it’s time to get to work.
Let’s go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need a professional pest control service for my car?
It’s unlikely that a roach infestation will grow so large in your car that you’ll need professional help. Since it’s a confined space, there are only so many places where they can spread. Using a combination of cleaning, gel baits, IGR if necessary, or natural alternatives, you should be able to eliminate roaches in a car yourself.
Sources
Azuma, Tsukasa (2018) How To Get Rid Of Roaches Out Of Car – The Nifty Tricks. Car From Japan. Retrieved from https://carfromjapan.com/article/car-maintenance/how-to-get-rid-of-roaches-out-of-car/
If you find a cockroach in your home, you'll want to act fast. Cockroaches not only hide so well you're unlikely to ever see most of them, but multiply quickly. In this printable step-by-step guide you're going to discover how to find a cockroach infestation, beginning with kitchen and bathroom areas - two hot spots for roach infestations.
Use a strong, easily held flashlight to look behind and underneath the refrigerator. If possible, move the fridge to get an unobstructed view of the floor.
Inspect the back of the refrigerator, especially the coils and motor area where roaches often congregate around the warmth.
Look behind and underneath the stove. Lift the stove top and inspect the burner areas.
Look behind, underneath, and around the microwave, coffee maker, or other counter top appliances.
Look underneath the dishwasher and into any gaps on either side.
Using your step stool, remove food and other contents from your cupboards. Examine the surface of each shelf, including undersides and rear corners. Before putting items back, examine them closely, too.
Open all drawers and remove contents. Inspect all items and surfaces, including roller and slider fixtures.
Open up under-sink cabinets and remove any items stored there. Examine interior surfaces, pipes, the holes where pipes enter, and the underside of your kitchen sink.
In the Bathroom
Open your bathroom cabinets or vanity and remove the contents. Check surfaces, especially those with drips or condensation. Check water and drain pipes, especially where they attach to the sink.
Examine all other exposed pipes and gaps where they emerge from walls.
Examine sink and bathtub drains.
Check gaps, cracks, and holes around bathtubs, showers, and toilets.
Using your step stool, check bathroom vents, vent covers, and flaps.
Around the House
Check behind pictures, posters, wall hangings, and wall-mounted clocks.
Examine the surfaces of electrical outlets, light switches, and electric baseboard heaters.
Examine wall paper, especially areas that are loose, curled, or pulling free.
Check areas that have lots of paper - saved newspapers, magazine collections, collections of books, old photographs, or cardboard boxes. Really poke around.
Using your step stool, look inside overhead light fixtures and check around the motor areas of ceiling fans.
Notes
Use a paint brush to brush debris samples onto a white index card. This can help you isolate roach debris from typical dust, crumbs, or dirt. If you find a dead cockroach or a cockroach egg, place it in a Ziploc bag to either identify it later, or to show to a pest control professional.
Shopping for a roach bait gel? Congratulations! You’ve already caught onto what’s possibly the best, most effective way to kill cockroaches and eliminate infestations.
Now, you’re faced with a choice: which bait should you buy? Let’s take a look at how gel baits work and what goes into a good bait to help you choose the best product for your situation.
Remember, when using insecticides, the label is the law—read and follow the instructions carefully, not only for your own safety, but to make sure each treatment is as effective as possible.
Cockroach Gel Bait: An Overview
Gel bait (codename: cockroach killer gel, for its lethal potency) isn’t just used by homeowners. It’s used by professionals, beating out necessities like sprays and roach traps as exterminators’ favorite tool.
How cockroach gel works
Roach gel does more than kill the occasional roach scurrying across the floor; it attracts roaches to find and eat its poisonous ingredients, inviting them to their last meals.
Gel baits are more strategic weapons than roach killer sprays or the end of a broomstick. Their killer feature: they spread their pesticides from roach to roach and throughout the colony, reducing the population from within and resulting in a quicker kill.
How effective is roach gel?
Gel bait is extremely effective at killing both large and small roaches. It has transformed the pest control industry and brought serious power directly to consumers. It’s even successful against the most notorious small roach invader: the German cockroach.
In one study, a single application of an insecticide gel for roaches eliminated 99% of German cockroaches in one month. Even after just the first week, nearly 3/4 of the roaches had been killed!
Gel baits eliminate cockroaches in a variety of residential and commercial settings, including hotels, schools, hospitals, warehouses, restaurants and food handling facilities, supermarkets, commercial and industrial buildings.
How to Use Cockroach Gel Bait
But where cockroach gel really shines is in homes and businesses. You can use these products to deal with your cockroach problem just like the professionals.
Using a gel bait comes down to 3 simple steps:
Choose your gel bait.
Apply on surfaces and in cracks and crevices.
Monitor and reapply.
1. Choose your gel bait.
Good gel bait isn’t designed to kill on contact like a bug killer spray. Instead, baits have delayed effects to allow one roach to spread the insecticide to others.
Common active ingredients in gel baits include hydramethylnon, fipronil and imidacloprid. Most products work against all of the usual roach suspects. Research has shown imidacloprid to be especially effective against German cockroaches.
Gel bait comes in two forms: liquid gel and bait stations. Bait stations are small plastic cartridges that hold the gel inside them. Both forms are useful—bait stations avoid any mess but gel bait can be dropped into tiny spaces.
How do you know if your bait is going to work? Well, one exterminator has a good test but… you’re not going to want to try it:
“If you can hand-feed the cockroaches your bait, you are going to gain control.”6
Talk about getting your hands dirty! A better test is keeping a close eye on the amount of bait left after each night. The more bait that’s eaten, the better it’s working. On the other hand, if the bugs don’t seem to be eating the bait, it’s time to either try a different product, or take another look at where they’re coming from and try baiting a different space.
One of the most common (and highly regarded) bait brands is Advion. Among gel bait products, Advion cockroach gel bait is the most popular for a few reasons. It uses a non-repellent formula so it strongly attracts roaches with no hint of chemicals.
Additionally, the active ingredient, indoxacarb, was the first insecticide to remain toxic after being passed on to not one but two more cockroaches. For every one roach that dies from the bait, several more could ingest the insecticide by feeding on the excretions the poisoned roach leaves behind. That’s exponential pest control!
2. Apply the gel on surfaces and in cracks and crevices.
To pack the hardest punch, apply gel bait close to areas roaches frequent (such as the crevices where roaches hide). Each day, only some of the bugs will emerge to search for food, so the closer the bait is to them, the better.
When using roach killer gel, place small, pea-sized drops of the gel. That lets the roaches eat the bait without feeling threatened or confused by lots of strange goo.
If you’re facing a large infestation, place drops about 3 inches apart in several locations. For smaller colonies, drops can be 2 to 3 feet apart. 5 to 10 drops spread throughout a home should be enough to kill small to moderate roach infestations.
As long as the evidence is there, focus on the kitchen and bathroom—they’re the most likely cockroach hiding spots.
3. Monitor and reapply
Once you’ve applied the bait, the waiting game begins. During this time, it’s tricky to know if the bait is working. You shouldn’t see dead roaches lying around the bait; that’s a sign that the insecticide is killing them too quickly—not what you want.
Gel will have to be reapplied regularly (especially if it’s working well—i.e., being eaten). On the other hand, bait stations are fine to leave in place for months, as long as there’s still bait left inside.
How long does it take for roach killer gel to work?
You could start seeing dead roaches within a matter of hours, and should start to see significant results within a week. After a month, over 90% of roaches could be dead. At that point, you’ll see very few emerging from hiding. Still, you should continue to apply tiny drops of gel bait until you stop seeing roach activity.
How do I know if the roach bait is working?
The number one sign is fewer cockroaches out in the open. You should also find fewer droppings (if that’s been a problem).
Remember to keep an eye on the bait. At first, if it’s disappearing quickly, that’s a good sign—the roaches are taking it and it should be doing its job. Later, as it kills the pests, you should find more left over when it’s time to reapply.
Pro Tips: What Not to Do When Using Gel Bait
Although roach bait gel is extremely effective and fairly easy to use, there are a few ways you might step on your own toes.
Don’t use too much gel.
You shouldn’t apply cockroach gel bait as if it were caulk, spreading it in thick layers or packing holes with it. It’s potent stuff; you only need a little. Plus, roaches are sensitive to perceived danger. Too much bait might scare them away and spread the infestation further.5
It’s best to drop only very small amounts, spread out across the target area. This avoids spooking the roaches or causing them to move to avoid the bait altogether.
Don’t cancel out the bait with repellents.
When using other products in combination with a gel bait, it’s important not to counteract the attractive bait by using repellents or bad-tasting sprays. Additionally, don’t spray household cleaners near the bait. We know you’re dying to disinfect, but if a cockroach catches a whiff of chemicals instead of the smell of tasty bait, it’ll flee and never come back for more.
Don’t forget about cockroach eggs.
Roach eggs aren’t affected by baits because the bait has to be eaten. Until they hatch, eggs are perfectly safe from your secret weapon. It’s important to persist with the bait, even after it seems most of the roaches have died. There could be eggs lying in wait, ready to restart the whole roach problem.
Buy fresh bait.
Found an old, faded bottle of roach bait in the closet of the apartment you’re renting? It’s probably lost its strong odor and won’t be as effective as a fresh bottle. Remember, the roaches have to want it. You’re better off buying fresh, delicious-smelling bait that they won’t be able to resist.
Roach Bait Gel as a Part of Your Pest Control System
Successfully eliminating cockroaches is a multi-step process. First, you have to identify their entry points and hiding places. Then, try to locate the nest and determine what species of roaches you’re dealing with.
Next up is your roach bait, which will reduce the existing population. Diatomaceous earth is a fantastic natural roach killer that works great as a sidekick for your bait.
Finally, it’s important to keep roaches away with good prevention techniques: cleaning, organizing and sealing. Roaches enter homes for food, water and a hiding place. By sweeping, vacuuming and cleaning dishes, you remove their food sources. Make sure you’re sealing up pantry items, too.
Decluttering removes potential hiding places inside and outside: cardboard boxes, old paper items, woodpiles, fallen leaves and more. Sealing up any holes, cracks or spaces in the exterior walls of your home prevents roaches from getting inside and starting trouble.
You can kill roaches with a gel bait but if you skip the rest of what makes a pest control plan successful, there’s a good chance they’ll come back to try again.
Conclusion
When it comes to getting rid of roaches, bait gels are some of the most powerful products available. Pick up a good gel bait, follow our tips and your roach problems will be a distant memory in no time!
You’ve got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do roaches come back after extermination?
There’s always a chance that roaches could return, finding new entry points from outside or hatching from eggs you hadn’t known were there when you took care of the adults. If they do, add a few drops of gel bait to deal with the new invaders. Then, do an even more thorough inspection of the outside of your home—they’re finding a way in somehow. Finding and sealing that entry point is the key to keeping them out.
Does roach bait attract more roaches?
Roach bait won’t attract more roaches to your home. It might bring more out into the open as the bait makes the bugs want to feed on it but it will inevitably kill those that do emerge. If it seems to attract more from various hiding places, it only means it’s doing its job.
How long does roach gel last?
Gel insecticide for roaches remains effective even after the gel dries. You can expect it to remain effective for up to two weeks after application, after which if necessary, you can re-apply.
Written by Andrew Martin. Reviewed by James Miksanek, PhD.
Disclaimer: This page is strictly for informational use. When using insecticides, keep in mind—the label is the law. Insecticides should be applied correctly and safely when needed, and according to the laws of your state or country.
Andrew Martin
Writer/Publisher
Andrew writes for, and along with his daughter, publishes Cockroach Facts. You can read more about him here.
James Miksanek, PhD.
Science Editor
James is an entomologist and adjunct professor of biology. His background is in biological control, and he has a passion for ecology and environmental science. His research has addressed a variety of topics including pest control and the management of invasive species. You can learn more about our contributors here.
Sources
State of the Cockroach Market (2019) Zoecon/Central Life Sciences.
Wang, Changlu et al. (2013) Baiting for Success. Pest Control Technology: Annual Cockroach Control Issue. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265795191_Baiting_for_success
Pollick, Michael (2020) The best roach bait. Chicago Tribune. Retrieved from https://www.chicagotribune.com/consumer-reviews/sns-bestreviews-tools-the-best-roach-bait–20200319-zasr4ez75zhyliny2j6tld4tsy-story.html
Indoxacarb Insecticide Wipes Out Entire Cockroach Generations (2008) Science 2.0. Retrieved from https://www.science20.com/news_releases/indoxacarb_insecticide_wipes_out_entire_cockroach_generations
2019 State of the Cockroach Control Market. Syngenta.
2019 Cockroach Management Supplement. Pest Management Professional.
Baniardalani, Mojgan et al. (2019) Toxicity of imidacloprid and chlorpyrifos against German cockroaches Blattella germanica. International Journal of One Health. Retrieved from www.doi.org/10.14202/IJOH.2019.107–112
Eliminating cockroaches doesn’t have to mean using harmful chemicals and putting your family and pets at risk.
Instead, use all-natural, non-toxic diatomaceous earth! Roaches don’t stand a chance against this dust and all you have to do is sprinkle it wherever you’ve seen them. It’s safe, cheap and easy to use!
Ready to learn the “how-to’s” of diatomaceous earth roach control? Let’s get started.
Remember, when using insecticides, the label is the law—read and follow the instructions carefully, not only for your own safety, but to make sure each treatment is as effective as possible.
Diatomaceous Earth Basics: What It Is and Where It Comes From
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a fine dust created by grinding up the fossilized shells of diatoms, microscopic ocean organisms. It’s like sand but much finer and made of only one material.
Fun fact: If you thought there were a lot of cockroaches in the world, there are even more diatoms. They produce over 20% of all of the oxygen we breathe. Diatoms have existed for at least 200 million years—leave it to an organism that’s nearly as old as cockroaches themselves to be their weakness!
What do you use diatomaceous earth for?
DE is an ingredient in hundreds of products, from hardware and paint to personal care and even food. You’ll probably see the term “food grade” used with DE. Food grade diatomaceous earth is finer than other types—and it’s the kind you want to use.
Does Diatomaceous Earth Kill Roaches? Yes!
Diatomaceous earth kills a variety of insects, including cockroaches, fleas, ticks, bed bugs and more.
As both a preventative measure and an insecticide, it’s a fantastic home remedy for killing roaches. It seems too good to be true… but diatomaceous earth really works!
How Does Diatomaceous Earth Kill Cockroaches?
Diatomaceous earth powder is abrasive and breaks down the waxy layer of the cockroach’s hard exoskeleton, killing it through dehydration. When they walk through diatomaceous earth, roaches carry away some of the DE that clings to the tiny hairs on their legs. They typically die later, back at their nest.
Diatomaceous Earth & Cockroaches: Putting DE Powder to Use
One of the benefits of DE powder is its versatility. It’s easy to sprinkle or spray it behind appliances, under furniture, inside cupboards and even outside! Use food-grade DE in the kitchen on countertops and in cupboards. Since it’s easy to clean up with a vacuum, diatomaceous earth works for roaches in cars and trucks, too.
We recommend using a duster to apply diatomaceous earth. You don’t have to buy a specialized pest control duster, though; you can make your own duster by poking or drilling holes in the top of a 2-liter soda bottle. Then, simply fill it about halfway with DE dust, twist on the cap and squeeze to spray the dust through the holes.
Bonus: Do you like a dash of powdered sugar on your French toast or pancakes? Use that handy sugar shaker to sprinkle your DE mixture (but remember to wash it thoroughly after you’re done)!
In a pinch, you can also spread DE with a scoop. Maybe you have one for pet food or you got one with a bucket of ice melt—you can always use a spoon, (washing them later, of course) too!
How to Use Diatomaceous Earth for Roaches, Step-By-Step
Step 1: Clean and dry. DE needs to be dry to kill cockroaches. If you decide to clean before applying the DE, give the area a few minutes to dry. If the humidity is too high in your attic, basement or bathroom, use fans to reduce moisture before applying DE.
Step 2: Spread a thin coating. Apply a light coating of the DE dust on surfaces and in crevices where you’ve seen evidence of cockroaches. Focus on areas like the backsides of stoves, refrigerators, and other appliances where the bugs can find crumbs and other food sources. You can treat bathrooms and closets, too, if they’re not too humid.
Step 3: Hit roaches’ entry points. Dust inside of tiny spaces, including cracks, outlets and gaps around wiring. You’d be surprised at the number of places roaches can come from.
Step 4: Treat inside wall voids. If you find any cracks or holes leading into the walls, there’s a good chance roaches could be hiding in there. Luckily, your duster bottle makes it easy to blow the dust right through the hole. (If there’s no opening, drill a small hole near the ground or behind a decoration.)
Step 5: Try diatomaceous earth outside. Spread DE in the mulch, garden soil and grass around the perimeter of your house without worrying about damaging your landscaping! Just like you did inside, sprinkle a thin layer and let it do its job. Just try to pick out a few dry days from the weather forecast!
If you have a crawl space or similar space beneath your house (or under a deck, for example), roaches could nest there. One simple solution is to pour a pile of DE right at the entrance. Then, use a leaf blower or large fan to quickly dust the whole interior of the space. When spraying that much DE, wear a mask and goggles to avoid irritation (and to definitely avoid inhalation).
Step 6: Repeat and, hopefully, relax. Keep an eye on the places you’ve treated—the DE might need to be refreshed from time to time, depending on the conditions and the size of the cockroach infestation you’re fighting.
If it rains or seems too humid, you’ll have to reapply. If you’re facing a lot of roaches, try dusting twice per week. One study saw up to 80% effectiveness within 72 hours but a large infestation will take more ammunition.
Cleaning up DE is as easy as applying it.
Clean up diatomaceous earth by simply sweeping, wiping and vacuuming. Use a damp towel to wipe it off of surfaces and a broom and dustpan to sweep it off of wood and tile floors. Anywhere there’s carpeting, a vacuum will do the trick! Best of all, it doesn’t leave any dangerous chemicals behind.
Note: You don’t want to get DE into the air, so wipe and sweep gently. Also plan to switch out your regular vacuum cleaner bags for drywall or fine particle bags.
Make Diatomaceous Earth a Part of Your Total Pest Control Plan
Diatomaceous earth doesn’t have to be your only tool against cockroaches. It works even better in combination with other treatments.
Use gel baits along walls and save the DE for tiny cracks and crevices. Or, treat the inside of your home with DE and the outside with a residual spray.
Want another natural insecticide to use alongside DE? Boric acid (and the similar borax) is a similar-looking powdered roach killer that makes a solid sidekick for DE.
Boost your roach control plan further by using natural cockroach repellents in the areas where you’re not dusting with diatomaceous earth. Cockroaches will be driven away from these areas—possibly right into your DE minefields!
Finally, every pest control system has to include good cleaning and organizational habits to take away roaches’ food sources and some of their favorite hiding places. DE will eliminate your existing problem; your long-term game plan is prevention.
Caution: DE Can Still Cause Irritation and Shouldn’t Be Inhaled
Unlike filter-grade diatomaceous earth which contains 60% crystalline silica (a hazardous material associated with various lung diseases), food-grade DE contains less than 2% and is considered safe to use.
That said, you should keep the material away from small children and pets, and use goggles and a mask when applying it (the fine particles can irritate your lungs).
Conclusion
DE is a proven and easy-to-use part of a total pest control plan. With just a duster and some diatomaceous earth in your arsenal, roaches won’t know what hit them!
Good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use too much of a DE roach killer?
Too much DE in one area is bad—it could scare the roaches away and spread the infestation into other areas of your house. Only use a thin coating that they won’t detect.
How long will it take diatomaceous earth to work?
Diatomaceous earth isn’t an instant solution but you should start to see results within two weeks. DE doesn’t kill insects on contact so they might not die until they’ve returned to their nest. You might not see the dead roaches but you should notice fewer living ones.
Longer infestations will take more time to eliminate. Don’t forget to reapply!
Will diatomaceous earth kill roaches and their eggs, too?
Diatomaceous earth doesn’t kill roach eggs but it will kill the nymphs as soon as they hatch.
Are there special considerations when using diatomaceous earth for German roaches vs. American or Oriental roaches?
Luckily, DE works for all species of cockroaches. The only difference would be placement of the diatomaceous earth. German roaches for example, often collect in kitchens, while Oriental and American species may harbor more in bathrooms and basement areas.
Written by Andrew Martin. Reviewed by James Miksanek, PhD.
Disclaimer: This page is strictly for informational use. When using insecticides, keep in mind—the label is the law. Insecticides should be applied correctly and safely when needed, and according to the laws of your state or country.
Andrew Martin
Writer/Publisher
Andrew writes for, and along with his daughter, publishes Cockroach Facts. You can read more about him here.
James Miksanek, PhD.
Science Editor
James is an entomologist and adjunct professor of biology. His background is in biological control, and he has a passion for ecology and environmental science. His research has addressed a variety of topics including pest control and the management of invasive species. You can learn more about our contributors here.
Sources
Bunch, T. R. et al. (2013) Diatomaceous Earth General Fact Sheet. National Pesticide Information Center. Retrieved from http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/degen.html
Ogg, Barb et al. (2006) Cockroach Control Manual. University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension.
Hosseini, Seyyed Akbar et al. (2014) The insecticidal effect of diatomaceous earth against adults and nymphs of Blattella germanica. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4025297/
Looking for the best roach bomb to eliminate an infestation in your home? You’ll find dozens of these products in stores advertising themselves as cheap, quick, “no-mess” solutions to your cockroach problems.
What if we told you that roach bombs and foggers aren’t effective against cockroaches?
There’s a better, cleaner and safer way to get rid of roaches. It’s not a product; it’s a game plan.
Ready for a powerful and effective roach removal system that you can start today? Let’s go.
They have many names—roach foggers, bug bombs, insect foggers—and make many claims, from killing cockroaches fast to reaching deep into crevices and even neutralizing odors. They rarely meet expectations.
Some call themselves “no-mess” products that work just about anywhere—houses, garages, attics, basements. When you activate a roach bomb, it sprays pesticides up toward the ceiling, letting the poisonous chemical mist settle onto all surfaces in its range. Imagine that—a canister that literally sprays pesticides across a room being a “no-mess” product! Not likely.
Despite clever and determined marketing, research has found little evidence to back up these products’ claims.
3 primary downsides make them less than effective:
1. Bug bombs for roaches rarely reach into cracks, crevices and other hiding places.
Are roach bombs effective? Not really. Basically, they throw a bunch of toxic chemicals into the air and hope to reach the tiny holes, crevices, and enclosed spaces where roaches hide. Usually, it doesn’t work.
A 2019 study found that store-bought roach bombs were completely ineffective at reducing German cockroach populations. Indoor bug bombs fail because they’re not sufficiently deep-reaching, and don’t hit the problem at its source: the roach’s nest. Even if foggers manage to kill a few cockroaches caught in the spray, they won’t have a long term effect.
2. Pyrethrin, a common cockroach bomb ingredient, doesn’t kill many cockroaches.
Pyrethrin (the active ingredient in many bug bombs) works against mosquitoes, flies and some other flying insects but it’s not consistently toxic to roaches or similar household pests. While it might flush roaches out of their hiding places, it’s fair to assume the last thing you want after using a cockroach bomb is to come home to see dozens of roaches emerging from walls and scurrying around the house.
3. Roaches might be frightened into hiding by a bug bomb.
If the roaches don’t frantically evacuate after you bomb a house for roaches, they might run for their lives in the opposite direction: deeper into crevices. Some products’ ingredients end up repelling roaches, making the infestation more difficult to eliminate.
Other Downsides to Using Roach Bombs
Cockroach foggers aren’t quick and easy solutions, despite what their marketing says. You, your family and all of your pets will have to leave your house for several hours, at least. You can’t stay in the house, even if you’re only bombing one room.
The dream would be spending an afternoon at the park or the mall as a fogger kills bugs in every corner of your home. The reality, though, is you’re going to return to hours of cleanup and not much difference otherwise.
You’ll have to cover all of your clothes and delicate furniture before activating the roach fogger. After it’s safe to return home, you’ll need to clean everything within range—up to 7,000 cubic feet! That means washing kitchen supplies, living room fabrics, furniture, pet toys and supplies, floors, walls and everything in between. You should wash sheets if you fogged near a bedroom, too.
A Roach killer bomb is not safe for people or pets. It’s vital that you wipe away all of the insecticide residue that might have settled in areas where your pets can reach. Pyrethrin can be especially toxic to fish and other water pets.
As if the cleanup weren’t bad enough, roach bombs can be explosive. In several instances, roach bombs caused explosions in homes when pilot lights ignited the gasses they emit. Even lit cigarettes and cigarette lighters have ignited roach fogger fumes.
Overall, roach bombs and insect foggers have proven to be ineffective and unnecessarily dangerous. Some indoor fogger products advertise use in cars but that’s not a great idea, either.
Luckily, there is a much better, safer and cleaner solution that will get rid of cockroaches for good.
Introducing… your step-by-step roach elimination game plan!
The Best Roach Bomb is a Strategic Game Plan
We’re not selling anything; we only want to clear up the confusion surrounding bug bombs and recommend a system that works and that you can start using today.
Here’s the breakdown:
Trap and Bait
Natural Insecticides
Repel and Prevent
Call for Backup (If needed)
Let’s dig into the details.
1. Use traps to find roaches and baits to kill them.
Your game plan starts with an inspection. It’s important to search floors, walls and cupboards for crevices where roaches can hide. Using a flashlight and a handheld mirror can help you see behind appliances and under furniture.
Sticky traps are a good first step because they’ll help you measure the size of the infestation and find where most of the roaches are hiding. Place them along walls where roaches are likely to travel. Other signs include roach droppings (which look like coffee grounds) and foul, musty odors, which roaches produce.
Once you’ve narrowed down your target areas, you can start using a gel bait product to eliminate the roach colony efficiently and, more importantly, at the source.
The same 2019 study that showed the disappointing roach bomb results also found that gel baits caused “significant declines in the cockroach populations.”
Gel bait (and bait stations) attract roaches, deliver a dose of a pesticide, then linger on the roach’s legs and in its digestive system until it dies back at its nest. There, as other roaches are exposed to it, they eat some of the poison, too.
Baits are vastly better than roach bombs because they eliminate cockroach problems at the source.
2. Add natural cockroach killers for a one-two pest control punch.
You can try staying away from chemicals entirely or use natural roach killers alongside a gel bait to boost your offense. Natural solutions include food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) and boric acid, both of which are deadly to roaches.
Tip: While natural, boric acid and diatomaceous earth are not completely harmless. Both should only be used in isolated areas (like around pipes and behind refrigerators), kept away from children and pets, and applied according to label directions.
To use boric acid for example, you can mix it with equal parts of sugar or flour (to attract the roaches) and lightly sprinkle it in small areas roaches walk.
You should refresh the coating every day or several days, depending on the size of the infestation.
3. Build your defense with repellents and good cleaning habits.
Once you have the existing roaches under control, it’s vital that you stop any more from invading. That comes down to 2 things: repellents and prevention.
Repellents are the products and DIY solutions that will stop roaches in their tracks. There are chemical repellents (like residual sprays—the kinds you often see pest control companies using) and natural repellents. Both can be effective and, again, you can use a combination.
If you’re going the chemical route, you can use sprays or granular products to repel roaches (and kill the ones that try their luck). Natural repellents include certain essential oils, herbs and a few other surprising items.
Prevention starts with closing off your home from these outside invaders. You should seal any holes, cracks or vents that roaches can crawl through, clear clutter from around your house and make sure you’re wiping down floors and countertops as often possible.
By eliminating food sources, standing water and entry points, you can make your home a fortress against pesky cockroach invaders.
4. If there are simply too many roaches, call in professional backup.
You can do a lot on your own but, sometimes, the infestation seems too large. Or, maybe you just don’t want to go through so much trouble to face it on your own.
You’ve still got an option: call your local pest control service. They’ll do the dirty work, safely applying pesticides and making sure every entry point is sealed and every hiding place is treated.
You have a lot of options when dealing with cockroaches but there’s one you should avoid: the deceptively ineffective roach bomb. It might seem like a cheap and simple solution that kills roaches fast, but in the long run, it’s more likely to be a hassle that doesn’t actually eliminate your roach problem.
Instead, focus your energy on the game plan we’ve laid out for you—it’s proven to work and it’s based on how the professionals treat roach infestations. By following these steps, you can eliminate roaches and keep them out for good.
Go get ’em!
Sources
Potter, Michael F. (2018) Limitations of Home Insect Foggers (“Bug Bombs”). University of Kentucky Entomology. Retrieved from https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef643
Pesticide information: Active ingredient: Pyrethrin. University of California IPM. Retrieved from http://ipm.ucanr.edu/TOOLS/PNAI/pnaishow.php?id=62
DeVries, Z.C., et al. (2019) Exposure risks and ineffectiveness of total release foggers (TRFs) used for cockroach control in residential settings. BMC Public Health. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889–018–6371-z
Ogg, Barb eat al. (2006) Cockroach Control Manual. University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension.
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