While all pests are an unwanted guest in your home, there is just something about cockroaches that can often get your skin crawling and you running for the bug spray. If you have discovered a few roaches in your home, there’s probably many more that you haven’t seen and you’ll want a solution fast. Here are some quick ways you can stop or prevent a roach infestation in your home.
Just like with any pest, prevention (rather than control), is the best method. To do this, you’ll want to do all you can to make your home an uncomfortable lodging for roaches. This with include getting rid of any food particles on the floors and cleaning regularly.
Anyone who has dealt with roaches knows how much they love to hide. By getting rid of the clutter in your home you prevent becoming a bug magnet. For roaches, pay particular attention to stacks of papers and cardboard boxes. Cockroaches love paper as they use it for a pheromone that communicates with their friends. You should also make sure there are no piles of laundry or stacks of other items on the floor.
If your prevention efforts still result in an invasion, it is important to act fast to control the situation. It is important to know that cockroaches can live for up to a month without food but only around a week without water. While it’s important to ensure all foods are sealed properly and spills cleaned immediately, cutting off their water source is essential. Wash and dry dishes straight away and wipe out sinks, baths, and showers to get rid of excess water.
When you encounter the pest you may want to reach for the nearest bug spray and get spraying. If you do want to use sprays, make sure and check the label to ensure they are suitable for indoor use and safe for your pets and children if you have any. Did you know cockroaches can hold their breath for 40 minutes?! We’re not so lucky, so go easy on the spray!
If you prefer to catch and release them, there are a number of ways you can do this such as homemade traps using food and jars. There are also adhesive tapes that will stop them in their tracks. If you do prefer to catch them, just remember you may not be able to catch them all and the infestation might remain.