There are several effective methods.
Chemical Means
Insecticides are the most effective means of combating cockroaches. They contain one or more toxic substances. Preparations with multiple active components are more reliable, as the colony quickly adapts to one of them. These means are available in various forms, but sprays and aerosols show the best results. Among the popular options are:
“Raptor”;
“Combat”;
“Doctor Klaus”;
“Raid”.
There are also pastes and gels that are applied along the paths of cockroach movement. They carry the toxic substance back to their nests, leading to the infection of the entire colony.
The most economical option is chalk made from insecticidal powder. It is also applied along the paths where cockroaches move. By crossing the line of chalk, the insect gets poisoned and dies. Chalks are safe; however, they should not be used in areas where there is contact with food and dishes. Use in homes with pets and children should be avoided.
Folk Methods
If the cockroach colony is still small, folk remedies that are safe for humans can be used.
Ammonia has a sharp smell that is unbearable for insects. To prepare the solution, one teaspoon of ammonia should be diluted in one liter of water. This solution should be used to treat infested areas. If possible, floors can be washed with the solution. The procedure is recommended to be repeated every 2-3 days, remembering to wear a mask and gloves.
With boric acid, baits for cockroaches can be made. For this, small balls should be rolled from the powder and raw yolk, adding powdered sugar or vanillin for attractiveness. Such baits, treated with boric acid, will be deadly for insects, as the substance erodes the walls of their stomachs. However, safety should be kept in mind — baits should be placed in areas where cockroaches have been seen, but in such a way that children and pets cannot reach them.
A simple method is traps. For this, a jar, box, or another container with sufficient depth can be used. The walls of the glass jar can be smeared with grease so that the cockroach cannot escape, or the inner walls of the box can be lined with double-sided tape — the effect will be similar. Traps should be checked regularly, emptied, and bait added.
Some smells are unpleasant for insects. If items with sharp odors are placed around the house, cockroaches will try to leave your dwelling. Such smells include garlic, geranium, lemon balm, eucalyptus essential oil, gasoline, varnish, kerosene, and tansy. However, with some of them, such as gasoline, it is better not to linger — its smell can become tiresome for people as well.
General Tips
In addition to all the means listed, do not forget about simple recommendations that will help make your home less attractive to cockroaches.
First, remove food. Grains, flour, sugar, and other products should be stored in airtight containers. The trash can should have a lid to prevent access to waste. If you have pets, their food should also be put away at night.
Limit cockroaches' access to water. If pipes are leaking somewhere, this can become a habitat for the colony. All wet areas in the kitchen and bathroom should be dried after use. Toothbrushes, sponges, and other items should be stored in airtight bags and containers.
Conduct a thorough cleaning. Look under cabinets, especially in the kitchen, behind the microwave and refrigerator. Remove all crumbs. Do not leave dirty dishes in the sink; wash them immediately.
Seal entry and exit points. Cockroaches should not have places to hide. They like to hide in appliances, so it is worth checking them from the inside and, if possible, sealing openings. All cracks in the bathroom and on the floor should be filled with foam or putty.
Don’t forget to inform your neighbors. Cockroaches tend to move, so if you have gotten rid of them in your apartment, it does not mean they have disappeared. Most likely, they will move to your neighbors, and after some time, when you forget about them, they will return. For effective cockroach control, it is not enough to treat just your apartment — it is recommended to carry out disinsection throughout the stairwell or even the building.
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