If you’re dealing with cockroaches in your home, it’s a serious matter. These insects are large, have a bad reputation, and are both unsanitary and potentially harmful. They’re also notoriously difficult to squash underfoot. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with tips on how to get rid of cockroaches in this article.

What Are Cockroaches?

Cockroaches are scavenger bugs that often invade homes. They have flat, oval-shaped bodies, long antennae, and spiny legs. These omnivorous creatures will eat anything from food scraps to each other. Cockroaches go through three stages in their life cycle: egg, nymph, and adult. Adults are larger, have wings, and lay egg cases with 10 to 50 eggs each. This rapid reproduction can lead to a serious infestation.

Identifying Cockroaches
There are various types of cockroaches. German cockroaches are small and light brown with two stripes on their backs. American cockroaches are large, reddish-brown, and can be over two inches long. Smokybrown cockroaches are dark brown or reddish, excellent flyers. Asian cockroaches resemble German cockroaches but have longer wings. Brown-banded cockroaches are small, hide in furniture, and have light brown bands on their bodies.

What Do Cockroaches Look Like?

Cockroach species vary, but they generally have shiny wings, flat oval bodies, long antennae, and spines on their legs. They come in shades of brown, tan, or reddish-brown.

What Do Cockroach Droppings Look Like?

Identifying cockroach droppings is unpleasant but crucial. Small cockroaches and nymphs leave small black flakes resembling ground coffee or pepper. Large cockroaches drop dark cylinders with ridges. Cockroach smears are liquified poop, appearing as greasy discolorations.

Where Are Cockroaches Found?

Cockroaches hide in dark spaces like drawers, cabinets, and under appliances. They thrive in damp environments like basements and closets. Kitchens and bathrooms are common places due to the availability of food and water. Cockroaches can also be found in outdoor landscaping or may enter the home through packages.

Signs of Cockroach Infestation
Signs include finding droppings, egg cases, shed skins, foul odors, smear marks, and damage to leather or cardboard items. The most telling sign is seeing roaches scurrying for cover when you turn on the lights.

Damage Caused by Cockroaches
While cockroaches may damage cardboard or leather items, the greater concern is the spread of diseases. Cockroaches can carry and transmit diseases such as salmonella, cholera, dysentery, giardia, and more. Their droppings can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks.

How to Get Rid of Cockroaches

There are several DIY-friendly methods to get rid of cockroaches:

1. **Step on Them:** Although it may seem obvious, squashing cockroaches is a good idea. Ensure thorough cleaning and disinfection afterward.

2. **Baking Soda:** Mix baking soda with sugar to entice cockroaches. Ingesting it causes gas to build up, leading to their demise.

3. **Boric Acid:** Create a mixture of boric acid, sugar, and water as a lethal bait. This can eliminate multiple generations of roaches.

4. **Citrus or Peppermint Sprays:** Cockroaches dislike these scents. Use essential oils or lemon juice/mint oil in water to deter them.

5. **Diatomaceous Earth (DE):** Apply a thin layer of DE on surfaces where cockroaches crawl. It’s safe for humans and pets.

6. **Professional Services:** For large infestations, consider professional services like Orkin, which uses various treatments to control and kill cockroaches.

How to Prevent Cockroaches

To avoid cockroaches:

1. **Keep the House Clean:** Cockroaches thrive on food scraps and spills, so maintain cleanliness, especially in the kitchen.

2. **Seal Gaps:** Seal any gaps around doors, windows, and the foundation to prevent cockroaches from entering, especially during colder temperatures.