how to keep cockroaches out of your house

15 Foolproof Ways to Keep Cockroaches Out of Your House and Live Pest-Free!

Cockroaches are one of the most common pests in the world, and they can be a real nuisance in your home. They’re not only unsightly, but they can also carry diseases and trigger allergies. If you’re dealing with a cockroach infestation, don’t despair! We’ve put together a list of 15 proven ways to keep these pests out of your house for good.

1. Seal Up Entry Points

Cockroaches can enter your home through the tiniest cracks and crevices. To keep them out, seal up any gaps around windows, doors, pipes, and vents with caulk or weatherstripping. Pay special attention to areas where utilities enter your home, such as where the cable line or gas line comes in. You can also install door sweeps on the bottom of exterior doors to prevent cockroaches from crawling under.

2. Keep Your Home Clean

Cockroaches are attracted to food and water, so one of the best ways to keep them out is to keep your home clean. Be sure to sweep and mop regularly, and don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink or food scraps on the counter. Store food in airtight containers, and keep pet food in a sealed container as well.

3. Fix Leaky Faucets and Pipes

Cockroaches need water to survive, so they’re often attracted to leaky faucets and pipes. Fix any leaks as soon as possible to eliminate a potential water source for cockroaches.

4. Use Cockroach Bait

Cockroach bait is a highly effective way to kill cockroaches. Place bait stations in areas where cockroaches are likely to travel, such as under sinks, in cabinets, and behind appliances. Be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully, and keep bait out of reach of children and pets.

5. Vacuum Regularly

Vacuuming regularly will help to remove cockroach eggs and feces, which can attract other cockroaches. Be sure to vacuum under furniture, in closets, and in other areas where cockroaches might hide.

6. Use Essential Oils

Certain essential oils, such as peppermint oil and tea tree oil, have a strong scent that cockroaches hate. Diffuse these oils in your home or apply them to cotton balls and place them in areas where cockroaches are likely to enter.

7. Try Borax

Borax is a natural mineral that is toxic to cockroaches. Sprinkle borax around areas where cockroaches are likely to travel, such as under sinks and in cabinets. Be sure to keep borax out of reach of children and pets.

8. Use Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms. It is sharp and abrasive, and it can kill cockroaches by dehydration. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around areas where cockroaches are likely to travel, such as under sinks and in cabinets. Be sure to keep diatomaceous earth out of reach of children and pets.

9. Call a Pest Control Company

If you’re unable to control the cockroach infestation on your own, call a pest control company. A professional pest control technician can assess the problem and recommend the best course of action.

10. Keep Your Yard Clean

Cockroaches are often attracted to clutter and debris, so keep your yard clean and free of potential hiding places. Cut the grass regularly, trim bushes and trees, and remove any piles of leaves or other debris.

11. Fix Damaged Screens

Damaged screens can provide an easy entry point for cockroaches. Inspect your screens regularly and repair any tears or holes.

12. Check Packages Before Bringing Them Inside

Cockroaches can sometimes hitch a ride into your home on packages or boxes. Always inspect packages before bringing them inside, and be sure to shake them out to dislodge any cockroaches that may be hiding inside.

13. Avoid Using Cardboard Boxes for Storage

Cardboard boxes can provide a hiding place for cockroaches and their eggs. If you need to store items, use plastic or metal containers instead.

14. Use a Dehumidifier

Cockroaches thrive in humid environments, so using a dehumidifier can help to make your home less appealing to them.

15. Keep Food in the Fridge

Cockroaches are attracted to food, so keeping food in the fridge will help to deter them. Be sure to clean up any food spills immediately, and don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink.

Conclusion

Keeping cockroaches out of your house doesn’t have to be a chore. By following these tips, you can create a pest-free environment for you and your family.

If you’re still having trouble with cockroaches, don’t despair! There are many other resources available to help you get rid of these pests for good. Check out our other articles on cockroach control, or contact a pest control company for professional help.

FAQ about How to Keep Cockroaches Out of Your House

How do I identify if there are cockroaches in my house?

• Signs of roaches: Roach droppings (small, black specks), egg casings (brown capsules), shed skin, or a musty smell.

What attracts cockroaches to my house?

• Food sources: Food crumbs, pet food, spills, or garbage.
• Water sources: Leaky faucets, condensation, or pet water bowls.
• Shelter: Cardboard boxes, clutter, or dark, damp areas.

How can I make my house less inviting to cockroaches?

• Eliminate food sources: Store food in sealed containers, clean up spills, and dispose of garbage regularly.
• Remove water sources: Fix leaky faucets, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and empty pet water bowls at night.
• Declutter and clean: Remove boxes and unnecessary items, vacuum regularly, and clean up pet waste.

What are some effective traps I can use for cockroaches?

• Sticky traps: Place them in areas where roaches are likely to travel, such as under sinks or behind appliances.
• Bait traps: These contain a sweet-smelling bait that attracts roaches, which are then trapped inside.

Can I use boric acid to kill cockroaches?

• Yes: Boric acid is toxic to cockroaches. Sprinkle it lightly in areas where roaches have been seen, but keep it away from pets and children.

Are there any natural ways to repel cockroaches?

• Essential oils: Peppermint, lavender, and tea tree oil have been shown to repel roaches.
• Bay leaves: Place a few bay leaves near entrances or in cabinets.
• Citrus peels: Leave orange or lemon peels in areas where roaches are active.

What can I do if I have a serious cockroach infestation?

• Call a professional pest control company: They can identify the source of the infestation and recommend effective treatments.
• Use roach baits: Place baits in strategic locations to attract and kill roaches.
• Seal entry points: Inspect your home for cracks or gaps and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.

How can I prevent cockroaches from coming back?

• Maintain good hygiene: Keep your house clean and free of food and water sources for roaches.
• Seal entry points: Regularly inspect and seal any gaps or cracks around pipes, doors, and windows.
• Use repellents: Keep essential oils or other natural repellents around areas where roaches are likely to enter.