Cockroaches are some of the most widely feared household pests, both for their creepy appearance and how quickly they can infest a residential space. Cockroaches also carry bacteria that can be dangerous to humans, and they can also be an allergen trigger to people with asthma.
When it comes to preventing cockroaches from entering your home or treating an active infestation, there are several measures we recommend to all of our clients to protect you and your family.
5 Popular Home Remedies for Cockroaches
1. Boric Acid
Boric acid is commonly used as a DIY cockroach solution, as it clings to cockroaches and attacks their nervous systems. However, it is important to note that boric acid can only kill adult cockroaches, not roach eggs, so it may not be an effective long-term solution for you.
2. Neem Oil
Neem oil is a seed oil that is commonly used as a more natural cockroach remedy. It is said that the strong scent of neem oil is overwhelming to cockroaches and can make them flee the area. To try the neem oil method, simply mix water and several drops of neem oil in a spray bottle and apply the mixture to your desired area.
3. Baking Soda
Another popular DIY method to get rid of cockroaches is using baking soda. Use a 1:1 ratio and combine baking soda and sugar in a shallow dish and place in areas where you have seen cockroaches. In most cases, a cockroach will die a few hours after ingesting the mixture.
4. Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a popular natural and DIY method for killing cockroaches, and you likely already have peppermint oil in your house! To try this solution, add your desired amount of peppermint oil to a spray bottle and add water to dilute. Next, simply spray in the places cockroaches are most active in your home.
5. Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural and environmentally-safe insecticide that can be used to get rid of cockroaches. When cockroaches walk on top of diatomaceous earth, the powder sticks to their bodies and absorbs the key nutrients from their exoskeletons, killing the insects. To try this method, simply sprinkle diatomaceous earth anywhere cockroaches travel, including walls, corners, and cracks in your home.
Do Home Remedies for Cockroaches Work?
While many home remedies can effectively kill cockroaches, it is always best to contact a pest control company to assess and treat the problem. Cockroaches are notoriously difficult to get rid of and can quickly re-infest a home, so be sure to reach out to a professional as soon as you suspect a cockroach infestation.
Plus, you will save money on pest control prices the earlier you can wrangle in an infestation.
When Should You Call an Exterminator
You should reach out to a pest control company at the first sign of a cockroach infestation. Even if you only see one cockroach, there are likely others roaming around your home in places you can’t see, so it is imperative to be proactive.
A cockroach control company can perform an inspection and identify ways to help safely put an infestation to rest.
Cockroach Prevention Tips
While many people may encounter a cockroach or two in their lifetime, there are certain preventative measures you can take to deter these pests from entering your home:
- Keep a clean home
- Store food properly
- Eliminate possible food sources, such as grease and garbage
- Remove hiding places from the floor
- Inspect items before bringing them into your home
- Limit dining to one room
Cockroaches are notoriously pesky creatures, so practicing proper prevention is your best tip to get rid of them.
FAQs
What kills cockroaches overnight?
There are several things that can kill cockroaches quickly, including baits, traps, and sprays. However, it is important to keep in mind that there is no guarantee that every cockroach will be killed instantly, as some infestations are larger than others and can be more difficult to treat. A trusted pest control company will be able to inspect your home to determine the severity of the infestation and create a unique plan of action to eliminate these pests for good.
What smell keeps cockroaches away?
Several scents have been known to deter cockroaches, including bay leaves, cinnamon, garlic, coffee grounds, and citrus. These scents are safe to use in the home and will not harm humans, but can effectively turn cockroaches away.
Will bleach keep cockroaches away?
The strong smell of bleach has also been shown to keep cockroaches away, which is why keeping a clean home is one of the most effective ways to get rid of these pests. Regularly cleaning your living space, especially your kitchen or other areas of your home where you eat, is imperative to making sure cockroaches stay away from your home.
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