How to eliminate cockroaches
IDENTIFY PROBLEM AREAS WITH FLASHLIGHT AND GLUE STRIPS
When considering what cockroach control method to use, it is best to first examine your home for possible roach infestation sites. Do this by using a flashlight to search popular roach hiding spots, including behind the refrigerator, under the sink, crevices in cabinets and shelves, closet door corners, bathroom cabinets and closets.
Use roach glue strips to locate large infestations. Based on your flashlight inspection, decide on the most strategic areas to place strips. Monitor those areas for a few days to a week. Strips in high-traffic areas will catch the most roaches, and these areas will need the most treatment.
USE CAULK TO CLOSE GAPS TO PREVENT FURTHER INFESTATION
Traps can be effective in reducing existing roach populations, but they won’t get rid of roaches on the outside trying to break in. To prevent a roach infestation from expanding, use caulk to fill possible entry points, including gaps between walls or tile, small crevices and entry holes. It will also help to use weather stripping on doors and window seals.
PLACE GEL BAIT BAIT STATIONS TO EFFECTIVELY REDUCE ROACH POPULATION
Gel bait can be an effective roach killer. Gel bait usually comes in the form of a tube and can be applied under baseboards, in cracks and crevices, and near areas that are most likely to attract roaches. While gel bait can be effective in getting rid of roaches, it can also result in a number of dead roaches lying around your home.
Another popular method when deciding how to kill cockroaches is the use of bait stations. Bait stations work by attracting roaches into stations to feed on poison. The poisoned roach then travels back to its home location, dies and is eaten by the other roaches, further passing on the poison. Bait stations work partially to get rid of roaches, but do not target all roaches in a home. They also pose an issue because they contain poison and look unappealing when scattered around your home. Some roach hotels only contain glue to trap the roaches, not bait and poison them.
BORIC ACID POWDER FOR ADDED EFFECTIVENESS
Boric acid, a substance found in products like clothing detergent and toothpaste, can be one of the best roach killers. Unfortunately, it is also easily misapplied and subject to displacement by air currents, sending the material into areas where children and pets can come into contact with it. Made by chemically combining boron and water, boric acid is low in toxicity to people and pets but deadly to cockroaches. When used incorrectly, boric acid will lose effectiveness and is not typically recommended as the sole method for getting rid of cockroaches.