How To Get Rid Of Large Roaches

How to Get Rid of Roaches Fast and Effectively

Roaches are one of the most common household pests that you might encounter. These pesky insects are known to carry diseases and can cause allergies, making them a nuisance to deal with. Fortunately, there are several ways you can get rid of roaches from your home. In this article, we will discuss 12 effective ways to get rid of roaches fast and keep them from coming back.

1. Know the Signs of a Roach Infestation

The first step in getting rid of roaches is to know if your home has an infestation. Look for the following signs:

– Roach droppings: These look like small black pepper flakes and can be found in areas where roaches dwell, such as under appliances or in cabinets.
– Egg casings: Roaches lay egg casings, which are small and dark brown. You may find them in hidden areas like cracks and behind furniture.
– Foul smell: Roaches emit a distinctive odor that is unpleasant and easy to notice when there are a lot of them.
– Shed skins: Roaches shed their skins as they grow. You may find these in areas where they hide, such as under appliances or in cabinets.

2. Keep Your Home Clean

Roaches are attracted to dirty and cluttered environments. Therefore, the first step in preventing a roach infestation is to keep your home clean and tidy. Here are some tips:

– Vacuum regularly: Make sure to vacuum your floors and carpets regularly, especially in areas where food is prepared.
– Clean dishes promptly: Rinse and wash dishes promptly after meals, and wipe down counters with a disinfectant cleaner.
– Take out the trash: Ensure that your trash cans have tight-fitting lids and take out the trash regularly.
– Eliminate standing water: Roaches require water to survive, so fix any leaks and ensure that standing water is eliminated.

3. Seal Your Home

Roaches can enter your home through cracks and crevices. Therefore, the next step in preventing a roach infestation is to seal your home. Here are some tips:

– Seal cracks and holes: Use caulk to seal any cracks or holes in your home’s exterior, especially around windows and doors.
– Seal gaps under doors: Install door sweeps to seal any gaps under doors.
– Repair damaged screens: Make sure to repair any holes or gaps in screens on doors and windows.

4. Use Bait Stations

Bait stations are an effective way to get rid of roaches. These stations contain a poison that roaches eat and carry back to their nest where other roaches will consume it. Here are some tips:

– Place bait stations in areas where roaches are likely to dwell, such as under appliances or in cabinets.
– Do not spray insecticide near bait stations, as this may repel roaches and make them less likely to eat the bait.
– Keep bait stations out of reach of children and pets.

5. Try Cockroach Traps

Cockroach traps are sticky traps that trap roaches. These traps can be purchased at most hardware stores. Here are some tips:

– Place traps in areas where roaches are likely to roam, such as under appliances or in cabinets.
– Check traps regularly and replace them when they become full.

6. Use Boric Acid

Boric acid is an inexpensive and effective way to get rid of roaches. Here are some tips:

– Sprinkle boric acid in areas where roaches are likely to dwell, such as under appliances or in cabinets.
– Make sure to keep boric acid out of reach of children and pets.

7. Use Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that can be used to get rid of roaches. This substance is made up of fossilized diatoms, which are tiny aquatic organisms that have sharp edges that can puncture the exoskeleton of roaches. Here are some tips:

– Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in areas where roaches are likely to dwell, such as under appliances or in cabinets.
– Make sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth, as the industrial grade can be harmful.

8. Use Essential Oils

Essential oils, such as peppermint, lemongrass, and cedarwood, can be used to repel roaches. Here are some tips:

– Mix a few drops of essential oil with water and spray in areas where roaches are likely to dwell.
– Make sure to use pure essential oils.

9. Use Bay Leaves

Bay leaves are a natural repellent for roaches. Here are some tips:

– Place bay leaves in areas where roaches are likely to roam, such as in cabinets or under appliances.
– Replace bay leaves every few weeks.

10. Use Catnip

Catnip is known to repel roaches. Here are some tips:

– Place catnip in areas where roaches are likely to dwell, such as under appliances or in cabinets.
– Replace catnip every few weeks.

11. Hire a Pest Control Professional

If DIY methods are not effective, you may want to consider hiring a pest control professional. A professional can assess the infestation and recommend the appropriate treatment. Here are some tips:

– Look for a reputable pest control company with good reviews.
– Make sure the company is licensed and insured.
– Ask for a quote before hiring them.

12. Prevent Roaches from Returning

Once you have got rid of the roaches, it is important to prevent them from returning. Here are some tips:

– Continue to keep your home clean and tidy.
– Seal any cracks or holes in your home’s exterior.
– Use bait stations and/or traps to monitor the situation and catch any roaches that return.

FAQ

Q: Can roaches fly?
A: Some species of roaches can fly, while others cannot.

Q: Do roaches carry diseases?
A: Yes, roaches are known to carry diseases and can cause allergies.

Q: How long does it take to get rid of a roach infestation?
A: The time it takes to get rid of a roach infestation varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the treatment method used.

Q: Are DIY methods effective in getting rid of roaches?
A: In some cases, DIY methods can be effective in getting rid of roaches. However, if the infestation is severe, it may be necessary to hire a pest control professional.

Conclusion

Roaches are a common household pest that can be a nuisance to deal with. Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of roaches from your home. The first step is to keep your home clean and tidy. You should also seal your home and use bait stations, traps, and natural deterrents like boric acid, diatomaceous earth, essential oils, bay leaves, and catnip. If DIY methods are not effective, you may want to consider hiring a pest control professional. Remember to continue to keep your home clean and tidy to prevent roaches from returning.