How to Control a Cockroach Infestation
You know that feeling when you watch cockroaches scampering for safety after you flick on the kitchen lights at midnight? If yes, then you need not explain further. Cockroaches elicit negative feelings thanks to their notoriety in spreading diseases and multiplying quickly in any house or building. They’re unpleasant to look at, and if you spot several in your home or business, you likely have an infestation.
What Are Roaches?
Cockroaches, also known as roaches, are insects with flat bodies, a pair of antennae, and wings folded over their backs. Most cockroaches walk fast instead of flying. While there are more than 4000 species of these insects, only around three species commonly invade American homes- the American, German and Oriental cockroaches.
German cockroaches are the most popular cockroach pests. They are light brown with dark stripes running on the side of their bodies. These cockroaches are around 0.6 inches long. American cockroaches are red-brown and also the largest. They can grow up to 3 inches in length and can also fly. Oriental cockroaches love damp environments. They are around 1.25 inches in length and have a glossy dark brown appearance.
Are Cockroaches Dangerous?
Roaches are a nuisance in any home or business area. Their presence is associated with unsanitary environments and diseases. However, this doesn’t mean that cockroaches avoid clean homes. These insects are drawn to food and water sources. Some people develop allergic reactions to cockroaches and their droppings. Also, because cockroaches move through filth, they contaminate food and water. They can spread diseases such as dysentery, diarrhea, typhoid, and cholera.
Signs of a Roach Infestation
Cockroaches are nocturnal insects, which is why you’ll likely encounter them at night. If you find them lurking in the open during the day, then the cockroach infestation may be severe. There are several signs you can use to spot a cockroach infestation.
- Cockroach droppings: Cockroaches usually leave their black droppings on surfaces. The droppings are less than 1 mm in width and oval-shaped. Sometimes, the most you will find are stained surfaces.
- Cockroach eggs: Female cockroaches lay their eggs (oothecae) in hidden crevices of the house. The eggs look like small brown casings with ribbed sides.
- Shed skin: As cockroaches mature into adults, they shed their old skins and get harder exoskeletons. You can check for skins in areas where you suspect cockroaches hide.
- Unusual damage: Cockroaches don’t only attack food in the kitchen. They also damage organic products such as books and leather.
- Live cockroaches: If you often bump into cockroaches in your basement or bathroom, kitchen, and drains, you most likely have an infestation.
- Lingering smells: Cockroaches leave a musty odor, especially on the items they come into contact with.
Where Do Cockroaches Hide?
Each cockroach species has a preferable habitat. However, these are some of the most common areas.
Bathroom
Check behind your bathroom cabinet or medicine cabinet, especially if it’s full of toiletries. You should also check the areas with plumbing behind the tub, sink and toilet. Cockroaches love to hide in concealed places away from the light.
Kitchens
All areas behind your kitchen cabinets and appliances are suitable habitats for cockroaches. You may also find them inside the cabinets hanging upside down or hiding behind food packets and under plates and cups. Areas with moisture such as kitchen drains are also popular hiding spots.
Laundry Rooms
Check the plumbing under sinks, the cupboards, behind cleaning supplies, and the areas behind the tumblers and dryers.
Near Bins
If you have a bin with food in it, you may find cockroaches inside or around it.
How to Control Cockroaches
- Clean all your kitchen appliances to remove all food spills. Remember to clean the surfaces frequently to prevent an infestation. Move the fridge, oven, and freezer and clean behind them too.
- Empty your kitchen cabinets and clean any spilled food and crumbs.
- Store all your food in tightly sealed containers.
- Eliminate food consumption inside bedrooms and other parts of your house that you may forget to clean after eating.
- Empty all pet food and water containers before going to bed and clean any crumbs left.
- Take all your trash out every day and keep it in a sealed container far from the house entrances.
- Eliminate all water sources by fixing leaking taps and pipes.
- Keep all surfaces in the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room dry, including the tubs and sinks.
- Ensure that all your wipe towels are dry before leaving them in the kitchen.
- Seal all the cracks and crevices in your house using cement or caulk.
- Make sure all your windows and door seals are airtight.
- Spray insecticide in places where cockroaches reside.
- Pest Prevention is the key
Do You Have a Cockroach Infestation?
Effective cockroach pest control starts with identifying the cockroach species.
Cockroaches are resilient pests, and cockroach exterminator is the best way to eliminate them and also prevent their return. These pests spread illnesses and can cause business loss if not managed immediately. For more information on managing a cockroach infestation with Pest Control, contact SafeHaven Pest Control today.
