Have you seen a cockroach in your home? If so, more are likely hiding nearby. Cockroaches multiply quickly, and a small problem can quickly become an infestation.
Getting rid of them takes more than just spraying insecticide. You need a proper plan and the right techniques.
If you’re dealing with cockroaches, knowing the dos and don’ts is important. Let’s go over the best ways to eliminate them.
Do: Identify the Type of Cockroach
Before starting treatment, identify the cockroach species. Different species behave differently and have unique hiding spots. Knowing what you’re dealing with helps you choose the best method.
Common Cockroach Types in Homes
- German Cockroaches: Small and light brown. Found in kitchens and bathrooms.
- American Cockroaches: Large and reddish-brown. Usually enter from sewers or outside.
- Oriental Cockroaches: Dark brown or black. Prefer damp places like basements.
- Brown-Banded Cockroaches: Small with bands across their bodies. Like warm, dry spaces.
Identifying the species helps improve your New York Cockroach Pest Control efforts.
Don’t: Flush Cockroaches Down the Toilet
Flushing cockroaches may seem like a quick fix. But it doesn’t always work. Cockroaches can hold their breath for 40 minutes. They may survive underwater. They can even crawl back up. Instead, dispose of them properly. Seal them in a plastic bag. Throw them away outside.
Do: Keep Your Home Clean and Clutter-Free
Cockroaches love dirty, cluttered spaces. They are drawn to food scraps, moisture, and dark hiding spots, and keeping your home clean makes it harder for them to survive.
Cleaning Tips for Cockroach Prevention
- Wipe kitchen counters daily.
- Sweep and mop floors regularly.
- Store food in airtight containers.
- Take out the trash often. Keep garbage bins sealed.
- Fix leaky pipes and remove standing water.
- Get rid of clutter, especially cardboard and newspapers.
A clean home is key to New York Cockroach Pest Control.
Don’t: Rely Only on Baits
Cockroach baits help, but they work best with other methods. If roaches have access to food, they might ignore the bait.
How to Make Baits More Effective
- Remove other food sources.
- Place baits in common hiding spots. Behind appliances is a good choice.
- Use multiple bait stations.
A mix of baits, sealing entry points, and cleaning works best for New York Cockroach Pest Control.
Do: Seal All Possible Entry Points
Cockroaches enter homes looking for food and shelter. Even if you remove them, they will return if they find a way inside. Sealing entry points prevents this.
Ways to Keep Roaches Out
- Seal cracks and crevices in walls and floors.
- Install weather stripping around doors and windows.
- Close gaps around pipes, vents, and drains.
- Use door sweeps to block entry under doors.
Roaches can squeeze through tiny spaces. Sealing gaps is essential for New York Cockroach Pest Control.
Don’t: Overuse DIY Treatments Like Boric Acid
Boric acid is a common DIY cockroach killer. It works, but only if used correctly. If you apply too much, cockroaches will avoid it.
Using Boric Acid the Right Way
- Apply a thin, even layer in problem areas.
- Keep it away from children and pets.
- Use it along with other treatments.
Boric acid alone won’t solve the problem. A full New York Cockroach Pest Control strategy is needed.
Do: Use Traps to Monitor Activity
Sticky traps help track roach movement. They don’t eliminate infestations. But they can show where roaches are most active.
How to Use Cockroach Traps
- Place traps in dark, warm areas. Under-sinks are a good option.
- Check traps regularly. Look for signs of activity.
- Use them with other control methods.
Traps help measure the success of your New York Cockroach Pest Control efforts.
Don’t: Ignore Signs of a Growing Infestation
Cockroaches reproduce quickly, and a small problem can become a major infestation. If you notice these signs, take action.
Signs You Have a Roach Infestation
- Seeing live cockroaches, especially during the day.
- Finding egg cases (oothecae) in cabinets or under furniture.
- Discovering droppings. They look like black pepper or coffee grounds.
- Smelling a strong, musty odor.
Act quickly. You’ll get better New York Cockroach Pest Control results.
Final Thoughts: Take Control Before It’s Too Late
Cockroach infestations get worse if ignored. Following these dos and don’ts helps keep your home roach-free.
If the problem continues, professional help may be necessary. VJ Pest Management offers expert New York Cockroach Pest Control services.
Contact us today for fast and effective treatment.