Cockroaches are difficult pests to get rid of because of how adaptable they are. Urban myths about their ability to survive nuclear explosions often only increase this anxiety in many homeowners’ minds. And while it’s true that they can survive for long periods of time without food or water, it is completely possible to eradicate them. Here are some methods that people often use to get rid of cockroaches.
Prevention
Preventative maintenance can often be considered a form of passive pest treatment. If you find cockroaches in your home or business, the first step is to clean up the area (wipe down countertops and other surfaces, wash dishes, etc.), take out any trash, and cut off any potential water and food sources they might find. While cockroaches can live for up to a week without water and up to a month without food, regularly practicing these preventive measures can discourage a cockroach infestation from getting worse and potentially cause them to move on to another location.
Cockroach Traps
The idea of cockroach traps is quite similar to that of any other pest trap. They use bait stations to lure cockroaches and then trap them with a sticky substance that prevents them from moving or a toxic pesticide substance that kills them. Many of these kinds of traps can be found in hardware and department stores. However, the problem with them is that they are not thorough. They will only catch a few cockroaches at a time and will not eradicate them at their source. They may assist in getting rid of an infestation, but they are unlikely to take care of the issue all by themselves.
Powder Treatments
Many people who use DIY pest control techniques turn to different home remedies like store-bought insecticides and powders to treat a roach infestation, such as diatomaceous earth and boric acid. These treatment methods work under the assumption that the substance will injure or poison cockroaches because of the powders’ sticky or abrasive properties. In some scenarios, these solutions have been shown to work. However, there are still many risks, and like store-bought traps, they only have a localized effect and may only kill roaches one or two at a time. Plus, if you have pets or children in your home, laying out a powder trap could be dangerous.
Dodson Pest Control Cockroach Solutions
At Dodson Pest Control, we are skilled at getting rid of insect pests. With over 75 years of experience in the pest control business, we have the training and techniques necessary to eliminate your cockroach infestation at the source and prevent it from returning. We offer free inspections, and we will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your needs to help you get rid of roaches.