Roaches are insects that are often considered dangerous due to their ability to carry and spread harmful bacteria that can cause diseases. These insects breed in sewers and drains and are often found in dark and secluded areas of the home. When they come into contact with kitchen utensils and surfaces, they contaminate them, increasing the risk of contracting diseases. So, it is important to identify roaches’ hiding places and get rid of them.
Ways to get rid of roaches
Roaches are resilient insects but not impossible to destroy. With consistent and continuous effort, one can get rid of them. Sometimes, these insects may develop resistance to certain techniques, which is when they breed, leading to an infestation. While eliminating them is an option, a wiser alternative would be to ensure there are no spaces for them to thrive. Keeping the home clean, removing debris, damp plants, and other waste materials from the premises, and clearing yards, attics, cabinets, bathrooms, or basements can reduce the chances of roaches breeding on the surface. Since these insects breed in dark, hidden spots, like drains and sewers, regular pest control and certain home remedies may be required to get rid of them quickly.
Targeted elimination for roaches
One should begin by identifying the places where roaches tend to breed. Start by checking places where one often spots the insects. For example, if they are often seen in the kitchen, they will most likely be breeding in the sinks and drains. After finding their breeding spot, one can apply an anti-roach solution, clean the areas, get rid of clutter along with any possible food sources, and ensure that all the roaches have been eliminated. Opting for insect growth regulators, baits, sprays, and foggers are some proven ways to prevent roaches from entering other areas of the home.
Home remedies to get rid of roaches quickly
1. Boric acid
This organic remedy has been used for a long time to target roaches. One can sprinkle boric acid in areas where roaches are frequently spotted. Once the acid comes into contact with roaches, it targets their nervous and digestive systems, eliminating them quickly.
2. Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is non-toxic and safe to use in living spaces with pets. This option lasts longer than chemical alternatives. Sprinkle some diatomaceous earth powder in areas where roaches appear. The product is more effective on dry surfaces. It targets the exoskeletons of roaches, dehydrating them and eventually eliminating them.
3. Baking soda
Baking soda can kill roaches within a day. Add equal amounts of baking soda and sugar and dust the mixture in areas frequented by roaches. They will be attracted to the sugar and end up ingesting baking soda.
4. Borax
Borax is a tested and effective remedy for killing cockroaches. Mix equal quantities of borax powder and sugar in a bottle and apply the mixture in small quantities in areas where roaches are often found. The scent of the sugar attracts the roaches, but they die once they eat the borax, as it targets their digestive system, causing dehydration.
5. Citrus repellants
Roaches do not like strong scents and fragrances. They also steer clear of limonene, a compound found in citrus fruits. So, one can scatter the peels of citrus fruits in places where roaches breed. Alternatively, add the juice of four of five lemons to a bucket of water and wipe the floor as well as the counters with this solution. The strong lemon scent will keep roaches from returning to the kitchen.
6. Essential oil sprays
Combine 15 drops of peppermint, citronella, lavender, tea tree, or rosemary oils with one cup of water. Spray the solution around areas where roaches are commonly found. Repeat the process after three days to see maximum impact.
7. Neem oil and powder
Neem oil and neem powder are pungent, bitter substances that are considered one of the most effective natural insecticides. So, one can spray neem oil in areas where roaches breed to kill them instantly.
8. Bay leaves
These leaves can repel roaches instantly, though they cannot eliminate them. Place bay leaves around areas where roaches frequent. Place them inside cabinets, under garbage bags, and around the house, and observe for a few days to see if the spaces are free from these pests.
9. Onion, garlic, and pepper spray
Make a paste of onion, garlic, and peppercorns. Mix it with water and spray the solution in the areas frequented by roaches. The pungent solution will ensure that they do not return to these areas.
10. Pine-sol and bleach
Boil Pine-Sol and bleach in water. Spray the solution on the affected areas in the home to repel the cockroaches almost instantly.
Professional pest control services
If these remedies are unable to control the spread of roaches, then one must contact a professional. Professionals can also address the unpleasant, musty, or pungent odor often caused by a cockroach infestation. If one spots more than one cockroach around the house, especially during the day, then one should call a pest control service to address the issue.
Cockroaches leave brownish-black droppings as they move. When one spots multiple droppings inside the house, it is a telltale sign of a significant roach infestation. DIY techniques can help with small infestations, but pest control services help identify threats, implement strategies to get rid of the infestation completely, and suggest ways to prevent such issues in the future.