Banish Cockroaches for Good: Tips and Tricks

First, some background: Around the world, there are about 4,500 species of cockroaches, but only 30 are found in human habitats. In the U.S., the most common is the American cockroach, and if you're (un)lucky, you might also encounter the German cockroach.

Size matters: The largest species are in Australia, with some reaching up to nine centimeters in length.

Survival experts: Cockroaches have incredible survival abilities. They can consume anything, including books and walls, and can detect movements of air molecules, allowing them to scurry away when you approach. They're also sensitive to light, fleeing as soon as it's turned on.

Don’t need food: Trying to starve them won't work. Cockroaches can survive without food or water, even in radioactive environments, and in temperatures below freezing. A cockroach with a crushed head can, in some cases, continue moving for about a week.

Home invaders: Cockroaches typically enter our homes through sewer systems. If you spot them indoors, check the plumbing and the areas around sinks, as there may be a small crack they're using to get in.

Not dangerous: Generally, cockroaches don’t cause harm beyond their repulsive nature, but they can transmit diseases if they roam in food areas.

Prepare for Battle

Shoe Combat: If you're dealing with just a few, you can easily squash them with a shoe. This is the most effective solution against a single or a small number of cockroaches.

DIY Pest Control: If a shoe doesn’t suffice, consider pest control, but you don't need to immediately hire a professional. Start with traps or over-the-counter pesticides that are easily available.

Professional Pest Control: If those methods fail, it may be time to call in a professional exterminator. Before hiring, ensure they have a license from the health and environmental authorities. You'll need to vacate your home for a few hours during treatment, following the exterminator’s instructions. Upon return, check for any special guidelines.

Sprays or Gel: Exterminators might apply gel (suitable for narrow places like cabinets, wall cracks, or drains) or use sprays (for entire rooms). If only gel is applied, evacuation isn’t necessary. However, the downside is that gel is effective for only three months, so it's advisable to combine it with spraying.

Still seeing roaches? If cockroaches persist, you might need another treatment, as their eggs are resistant to pesticides and may eventually hatch.

Breathing Easy: The longevity of the treatment depends on the chemicals used. Some can provide up to two years of protection after several applications. Ask for low-toxicity options that offer extended effectiveness.

Pro tip: Installing screens on windows, keeping doors closed, and sealing cracks can effectively prevent cockroaches from entering in the first place.