Cockroaches are persistent pests, but there are multiple effective methods to eliminate them. This guide explores a variety of approaches, from simple home remedies like baking soda and citrus spray to professional extermination, providing you with the knowledge to choose the best solution for your situation.
1. Stepping on Them

Stepping on cockroaches is a straightforward and immediate method of elimination. While this approach can be effective for visible cockroaches, it’s not a practical solution for infestations. Physical contact is needed, making it unsuitable for large or hidden populations. It’s also important to clean the area thoroughly afterward to prevent the spread of any bacteria or eggs that might be left behind.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda, when mixed with a bait like sugar, can be an effective cockroach control method. Cockroaches are attracted to the sugar and ingest the baking soda, which causes internal disturbances leading to their demise. This method is safe for use around pets and children, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. However, it requires patience, as it may take a while to see results, and is best used for smaller infestations.
3. Boric Acid
Boric acid is a highly effective cockroach control agent. When applied to areas frequented by cockroaches, such as under sinks and behind appliances, boric acid acts as a poison when ingested by the insects. It’s important to use boric acid carefully, as it can be harmful to pets and humans if ingested or inhaled. This method is best for persistent infestations but requires careful application and may need to be reapplied periodically for continued effectiveness.
4. Citrus Spray
Citrus spray can act as a natural deterrent against cockroaches. The strong scent of citrus, particularly from lemon, is disliked by cockroaches, making it an effective repellent. You can create a homemade spray using lemon juice or essential oils mixed with water. Spray it around areas where cockroaches are frequently spotted. This method is eco-friendly and safe for use in homes, but it’s more of a preventive measure rather than a solution for severe infestations.
5. Peppermint Spray
Peppermint spray is another natural method to repel cockroaches. The strong scent of peppermint oil is off-putting to cockroaches and can keep them at bay. Mix a few drops of peppermint essential oil with water and spray in areas prone to cockroach activity. This method is non-toxic, making it ideal for households with children and pets. While effective as a repellent, it may not be sufficient for eliminating an existing large infestation.
6. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a potent substance for controlling cockroach populations. This fine powder, made from fossilized algae, works by damaging the exoskeleton of cockroaches, leading to dehydration and death. Spread a thin layer in areas where cockroaches are seen, such as under appliances and in cupboards. It’s safe for humans and pets but should be used with caution to avoid inhalation. Diatomaceous earth is effective for moderate infestations but may take time to show full results.
7. Call an Exterminator
Calling an exterminator is a highly effective method for dealing with cockroach infestations. Professional cockroach exterminators have access to powerful insecticides and the expertise to identify and treat all infestation hotspots. This method is particularly advisable for large or persistent infestations that home remedies cannot control. While it’s the most costly option, it offers a thorough and often quick resolution to the cockroach problem, along with professional advice for preventing future infestations.
8. Baits and Traps
Baits and traps are effective tools for managing cockroach populations. These devices attract cockroaches with food bait and then trap or poison them. They can be placed in areas of high activity, like kitchen corners and under sinks. This method is good for monitoring and reducing populations over time. Baits and traps are relatively safe for use around humans and pets, but they should be placed out of reach of children and animals.
9. Sticky Glue Traps
Sticky traps are a simple and non-toxic way to catch cockroaches. These traps use a sticky surface to catch cockroaches as they walk over them. Place them in areas where cockroach activity is high, such as under sinks, in cupboards, and along walls. Sticky traps are safe for use in homes with children and pets and are useful for monitoring infestation levels, but they may not be effective for large infestations.
10. Gel Baits
Gel baits are a targeted and effective method for eliminating cockroaches. These baits contain insecticides mixed with attractants, drawing cockroaches to consume the poison. Gel baits can be applied in small amounts in areas where cockroaches are active, like under appliances and in cabinets. They are particularly useful for treating hard-to-reach areas. Safety precautions should be taken to keep the baits away from children and pets.
11. Insecticidal Sprays or Powders
Insecticidal sprays or powders are a common method for cockroach control. These products contain chemicals that kill cockroaches on contact. Sprays can be used in areas where cockroaches hide, like cracks and crevices. Powders can be dusted in areas of frequent cockroach traffic. While effective, they require caution during application, as they can be harmful to humans and pets if inhaled or ingested.
12. Insecticidal Dust
Insecticidal dust is a fine powder that contains chemicals effective against cockroaches. It works by clinging to the bodies of cockroaches, who then ingest the poison while grooming. This method is ideal for treating hidden areas like wall voids and under baseboards. Insecticidal dust is effective for long-term control but should be used cautiously to prevent inhalation and keep away from pets and children.
13. Thermal Aerosol Fog
Thermal aerosol fog is a method used to treat severe cockroach infestations. This approach involves using a fogging device to disperse a fine mist of insecticide throughout an infested area. The fog penetrates cracks, crevices, and other hard-to-reach places where cockroaches hide. It’s essential to vacate the area during and after treatment and to follow all safety instructions. This method is typically used as a last resort due to its extensive coverage and the need for professional application.
14. Fipronil and Imidacloprid Gel Baits
Fipronil and Imidacloprid gel baits are highly effective against cockroaches. These insecticides disrupt the nervous system of cockroaches, leading to their death. A study in the Journal of Entomological Research titled “Efficacy of gel baits against American cockroaches (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae) under laboratory conditions” showed that Imidacloprid gel bait is more effective than fipronil and chlorpyrifos gel baits for controlling American cockroaches under laboratory conditions.
Apply the gel in small amounts in areas where cockroaches are seen, such as cracks, crevices, and hiding spots. These gels are potent and can provide long-term control, but they should be used carefully to avoid contact with pets and children.
15. Combine Rodent Bait With Boric Acid
Using a combination of rodent bait and boric acid compounds can be effective in controlling cockroach populations, according to a study in Laboratory animal science titled: “A boric acid-rodenticide mixture used in the control of coexisting rodent-cockroach infestations”. The bait attracts cockroaches, while the boric acid acts as a poison when ingested. This method can be applied in areas where cockroaches are prevalent. It’s a versatile approach but requires caution to ensure safety, especially in households with pets and children.
16. Essential Oils
Essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender, and tea tree oil can act as natural repellents against cockroaches. Mix these essential oils with water and spray in cockroach-prone areas. While they won’t kill cockroaches, they can deter them from entering treated areas. This method is safe, environmentally friendly, and ideal for use in homes, but may not be effective for large or existing infestations.
17. Soap and Water Solution
A soap and water solution can be a quick method to kill visible cockroaches. Mix soap with water in a spray bottle and spray directly on cockroaches. The soap clogs their pores, leading to suffocation. This method is immediate, safe, and cost-effective but is only practical for dealing with cockroaches that are visible and accessible.
18. Cucumber Peels
Cucumber peels are believed to be a natural deterrent for cockroaches due to their scent. Placing fresh cucumber peels in areas of cockroach activity can help keep them away. This method is safe, non-toxic, and easy to implement, but its effectiveness is anecdotal and it may not work for all infestations.
19. Bay Leaves
Bay leaves are another natural repellent for cockroaches. The scent of bay leaves is said to be unpleasant to cockroaches. Place crushed bay leaves in problem areas. This method is non-toxic and easy to use, but like cucumber peels, its effectiveness is not scientifically proven and may vary.
20. Catnip
Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that is a natural repellent to cockroaches. Placing small sachets of catnip in areas where cockroaches are seen can help deter them. This method is safe and non-toxic but is more of a preventive measure and may not be effective in controlling large infestations.
21. Ammonia
Ammonia can be used as a cleaning agent to deter cockroaches. Mix ammonia with water and use it to clean surfaces where cockroaches are frequent. The strong smell of ammonia is unappealing to cockroaches and can help keep them away. This method requires caution, as ammonia fumes can be irritating and harmful if inhaled in large quantities. It’s more suitable as a preventive measure than a solution for existing infestations.
22. Garlic, Onion, and Pepper Solution
A homemade solution of garlic, onion, and pepper can be used as a natural cockroach repellent. Blend these ingredients with water and let the mixture sit for a few hours before straining. Spray the solution in areas prone to cockroaches. The strong odors of garlic, onion, and pepper are believed to repel cockroaches. This method is safe and eco-friendly, but its effectiveness may vary and it’s primarily a preventative measure.
23. Cedar
Cedar wood and cedar oil are known for their insect-repelling properties, including against cockroaches. Place cedar blocks or chips in areas where cockroaches are a problem, or use cedar oil in a diffuser. The scent of cedar is a natural deterrent for many pests. This method is non-toxic and pleasant-smelling but may not eliminate an existing infestation.
24. Alcohol Spray
Alcohol spray can be used as a contact insecticide against cockroaches. Mix rubbing alcohol with water and spray directly on the cockroaches. The alcohol works by dehydrating the insects upon contact. This method is fast-acting and effective for visible cockroaches but may not be practical for large infestations and requires repeated application.
25. Borax
Borax is an effective cockroach killer when used properly. Mix borax with a food attractant like sugar, and sprinkle the mixture in areas where cockroaches are common. When ingested, borax kills cockroaches by disrupting the digestive system. While effective, borax can be harmful if ingested by pets or children, so it should be used with caution.
26. Roach Bombs or Foggers
Roach bombs or foggers release a pesticide mist to kill cockroaches. They are designed to penetrate hard-to-reach areas where cockroaches hide. However, they require vacating the area during and after use and may not reach deeply into nesting areas. They can also leave harmful residues, so they should be used with caution and in compliance with safety instructions.
27. Mothballs
Mothballs are sometimes used as a cockroach repellent due to their strong odor. However, their effectiveness against cockroaches is debatable. Mothballs contain chemicals that can be harmful if inhaled or ingested, so they should be used cautiously, especially in homes with pets and children.
28. Bleach
Bleach can be used as a cleaning agent to deter cockroaches. It can be diluted with water and used to clean floors and surfaces. The strong odor and cleaning action of bleach can help to remove food residues and scents that attract cockroaches. However, bleach is a harsh chemical and should be used with care, as it can be harmful if inhaled or if it comes into contact with skin.
29. Vinegar
Vinegar, especially white vinegar, is often touted as a natural cleaning agent that can help deter cockroaches. Its strong scent is believed to be unattractive to cockroaches. Use diluted vinegar to clean surfaces. While vinegar is safe and eco-friendly, its effectiveness as a cockroach repellent is not scientifically proven and may vary.
30. Lysol
Lysol can be used to clean surfaces and kill germs that may attract cockroaches. Its strong scent and cleaning properties may help deter cockroaches. However, Lysol is not a cockroach killer and should be used as part of a broader pest control strategy. It’s important to use Lysol according to safety guidelines, as it contains chemicals that can be harmful if misused.
For a step-by-step visual guide on eliminating cockroaches, check out this YouTube video for expert tips and proven methods to ensure your home stays pest-free:
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches at Home
Eliminating cockroaches requires a tailored approach for each area of your home. Whether it’s the kitchen with its food sources, an apartment’s shared spaces, the damp environment of a bathroom, or even the confined space of a car, understanding the unique challenges of each setting is key.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in a Kitchen
Cockroaches are particularly drawn to kitchens due to the abundance of food, water, and hiding places. By taking a strategic approach to cleaning, sealing entry points, and using targeted control methods, you can effectively eliminate and prevent cockroaches from taking over your kitchen. Eliminate cockroaches in the kitchen by:
- Maintaining a clean kitchen: Wipe down counters, sweep floors, and clean up crumbs or spills immediately. Pay special attention to hidden areas like under appliances, where food debris can accumulate.
- Storing food in airtight containers: Keep all food, including pet food, in sealed containers to prevent cockroaches from accessing food sources.
- Removing water sources: Fix leaky faucets, sinks, and pipes. Cockroaches need water to survive, so eliminating moisture helps make your kitchen less hospitable.
- Emptying trash regularly: Use trash bins with tight-fitting lids, and take out the trash daily to avoid attracting cockroaches with food waste.
- Cleaning under and behind appliances: Cockroaches love to hide in warm, dark places like under refrigerators, stoves, and microwaves. Regularly clean these areas to remove potential food sources.
- Sealing cracks and crevices: Seal gaps around doors, windows, pipes, and any other potential entry points with caulk or weather stripping to prevent cockroaches from entering your kitchen.
- Using baits and traps: Place gel baits or sticky traps in corners, under cabinets, and near entry points. Baits lure cockroaches, who then bring the poison back to their nest, helping to eliminate the entire colony.
- Keeping drains clean: Pour boiling water or a cleaning solution down kitchen drains regularly to prevent cockroaches from using drains as entry points or hiding places.
- Limiting clutter: Reduce clutter in kitchen drawers, cabinets, and countertops, as cockroaches are more likely to thrive in disorganized spaces.
- Inspecting groceries and packaging: Before bringing new groceries or items into the kitchen, inspect packaging for cockroach eggs or signs of infestation to avoid accidentally introducing them to your home.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in an Apartment
Cockroach infestations in apartments can be especially challenging due to shared walls, communal spaces, and multiple entry points. A thorough approach that includes sealing entryways and coordinating with neighbors is essential to effectively eliminate cockroaches from apartment complexes.
Address cockroach infestations in apartments by:
- Sealing cracks and crevices: Inspect walls, floors, and ceilings for any small openings or cracks. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal gaps around windows, doors, baseboards, and pipes to block cockroach entry points.
- Ensuring doors and windows are tight-fitting: Install weather stripping or door sweeps to ensure doors and windows close tightly, preventing cockroaches from sneaking in through gaps.
- Coordinating with neighbors: Cockroach infestations can spread between apartments, so it’s important to communicate with neighbors and building management. Work together to implement building-wide treatments and pest control efforts for maximum effectiveness.
- Using gel baits in key areas: Apply gel baits in areas with high cockroach activity, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and utility closets. Gel baits are particularly effective in apartments, as cockroaches carry the poison back to their nest, helping eliminate the colony.
- Spraying insecticidal sprays in hidden areas: Use insecticidal sprays in cracks, behind appliances, and under sinks where cockroaches like to hide. Be mindful of safety precautions, especially if children or pets are present.
- Setting sticky traps: Place sticky traps near doorways, under sinks, and in corners to monitor cockroach activity and capture any stragglers.
- Keeping communal areas clean: Ensure that shared areas, such as hallways, laundry rooms, and garbage chutes, are kept clean and free of food debris or garbage. These areas can be breeding grounds for cockroaches if not properly maintained.
- Taking out trash regularly: Use tightly sealed trash bins in your apartment and take out the trash daily to reduce cockroach attractants.
- Storing food in sealed containers: Keep all food, including pantry items and pet food, in airtight containers to minimize access to food sources.
- Requesting professional pest control: If the infestation persists, notify your landlord or building management and request a professional exterminator to assess and treat the entire building.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in Bathroom
Cockroaches are often attracted to bathrooms due to the availability of moisture and dark hiding spots. To effectively eliminate them, you need to remove water sources and keep the bathroom clean and dry.
Combat cockroaches in the bathroom by:
- Fixing leaky faucets and pipes: Cockroaches are drawn to moisture, so it’s essential to repair any leaking faucets, pipes, or showerheads to remove potential water sources.
- Ventilating the bathroom: Use an exhaust fan or open windows to reduce humidity and prevent condensation from accumulating on surfaces, as cockroaches thrive in damp environments.
- Cleaning regularly, focusing on hard-to-reach areas: Clean areas like behind the toilet, under the sink, and in corners where cockroaches are likely to hide. Regularly wipe down floors, walls, and tile grout to eliminate grime and bacteria that attract pests.
- Sealing cracks and gaps: Inspect the bathroom for cracks around tiles, baseboards, and plumbing. Seal any gaps with caulk or sealant to prevent cockroaches from entering and nesting.
- Using cockroach baits: Place gel baits or bait stations near moist areas like under sinks, behind the toilet, and around pipes. The cockroaches will take the bait back to their nest, helping eliminate the infestation.
- Setting traps in damp areas: Sticky traps can be placed in dark, damp areas like behind the toilet or under cabinets to catch cockroaches and monitor activity levels.
- Cleaning the drains regularly: Pour boiling water or a cleaning solution down bathroom drains to flush out any cockroaches that may be using them as entry points.
- Storing personal care items properly: Keep soaps, lotions, and other toiletries sealed and stored properly. Avoid leaving items like toothbrushes or washcloths in areas where cockroaches may crawl.
- Clearing away clutter: Reduce bathroom clutter by keeping items like extra toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and grooming tools stored in sealed cabinets to minimize cockroach hiding spots.
- Using insecticidal sprays carefully: In case of heavy infestations, use insecticidal sprays in cracks and crevices around the bathroom, but follow safety guidelines to ensure it’s safe for use in enclosed spaces like bathrooms.
How to Get Cockroaches Out of a Car
Cockroaches can easily find their way into your car, especially if food or crumbs are left behind. To eliminate them and prevent future infestations, a thorough cleaning and targeted control measures are essential.
Remove cockroaches from a car by:
- Thoroughly vacuuming the interior: Vacuum all carpets, floor mats, and upholstery, paying close attention to crevices between seats and under floor mats where crumbs and debris accumulate. Use a vacuum attachment to reach tight spaces where cockroaches may be hiding.
- Cleaning all surfaces: Wipe down the dashboard, cup holders, door panels, and under seats with a cleaning solution. Remove any residue that might attract cockroaches, especially around food or drink spill areas.
- Removing all food scraps and wrappers: Make sure there are no food particles left behind in the car, including snack wrappers, crumbs, or pet food. Empty out all compartments like glove boxes and console storage spaces.
- Placing small bait traps under seats: Use gel baits or bait stations specifically designed for small spaces, placing them under the seats and in other concealed areas like the trunk. The baits will attract cockroaches and help eliminate them.
- Using sticky traps for monitoring: Set sticky traps on the car floor, under the seats, and in the trunk to monitor and catch cockroaches. This will help gauge the extent of the infestation.
- Cleaning air vents and ducts: Use compressed air or a vent cleaner to blow out any dust or crumbs that may have accumulated in air vents, as these areas can be prime hiding spots for cockroaches.
- Sealing any gaps or entry points: Check for small openings around doors, windows, and the trunk where cockroaches could be entering. Ensure all seals are intact and that doors and windows close tightly.
- Removing unnecessary items from the car: Declutter the interior by removing unnecessary items like bags, old papers, or clothing, which could serve as hiding places for cockroaches.
- Parking away from infested areas: Avoid parking near dumpsters, heavily wooded areas, or any locations known to have cockroach infestations. Cockroaches can easily enter cars parked in infested areas.
- Using natural repellents like essential oils: For a non-toxic option, you can place cotton balls soaked in essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus under the seats and in the car’s storage compartments to help repel cockroaches.
How to Prevent Cockroaches
To effectively prevent cockroach infestations, adopting specific strategies is essential. In our comprehensive guide on cockroach prevention, we cover crucial tactics:
Prevention Method | Action | Why It Works | Frequency |
---|---|---|---|
Seal Cracks and Crevices | Caulk gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards | Blocks common entry points for cockroaches | Once per year or as needed |
Keep Kitchen Clean | Wipe counters, clean up crumbs, and avoid leaving dirty dishes overnight | Eliminates food sources that attract cockroaches | Daily |
Store Food in Sealed Containers | Use airtight containers for food, pet food, and pantry items | Prevents cockroaches from accessing food supplies | Always |
Fix Leaky Pipes and Faucets | Repair any leaks in sinks, bathrooms, or basements | Reduces moisture, which cockroaches need to survive | As needed |
Take Out Trash Regularly | Use trash bins with tight-fitting lids and empty them frequently | Removes food scraps that attract cockroaches | Daily |
Reduce Clutter | Declutter rooms, cabinets, and closets | Eliminates hiding spots for cockroaches | Monthly |
Clean Drains | Flush drains with boiling water or use a drain cleaner | Removes food particles and potential nesting areas for cockroaches | Weekly |
Use Cockroach Baits | Place gel baits or bait stations in areas where cockroaches are likely | Prevents infestations by targeting cockroaches before they multiply | As needed |
Install Door Sweeps | Add door sweeps to exterior doors | Prevents cockroaches from entering through gaps under doors | Once per year or as needed |
Ventilate Humid Areas | Use fans or dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and bathrooms | Reduces moisture that attracts cockroaches | Regularly |
These targeted measures are designed to create a hostile environment for cockroaches, ensuring long-term protection for your home. Explore our detailed prevention guide for more insights.