It’s bad enough seeing a cockroach running across the street but finding one in your kitchen is enough to send a shiver down your spine. The problem is, if you’ve seen one, there’s a good chance there are several more.
The good news is that despite there being 4,600 species of cockroach, only 30 have been linked to human habitats. That means they’re not all out to get you!
But, if you do have a problem you should contact your local pest control service quickly. While the following natural solutions can help, it’s important to verify that the infestation is gone. The experts can also help you to protect against them returning. Click here to contact your local expert and protect yourself in the future.
Don’t forget, cockroaches carry a variety of diseases, none of which you want to contract.
1. Boric Acid
Cockroaches are incredibly resilient but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a natural remedy. You’ll need to mix some boric acid with powdered sugar and place it in a small bowl, near where you’ve seen the cockroaches.
The sweetness of the sugar will attract the roaches but, when they eat it, the boric acid will kill them.
It’s also good to know that boric acid isn’t toxic to pets or children. However, it can be irritating to your skin so it is still a good idea to keep the trap away from people and other animals.
2. Diatomaceous Earth
This natural powder is actually created from fossils and is fantastic against all manner of insects. The diatomaceous earth effectively dehydrates the roach, all they have to do is breathe in the dust as they pass through it. There are also tiny sharp pieces in the earth that will cut the hard outer skeleton of the roach. These two effects combine to effectively kill the bug in a very short space of time.
You should note it can also irritate human airways, wearing a mask while putting it down is a good idea!
3. Clean Up
Roaches, and most other pests, are attracted to food sources. One of the best ways of keeping the roaches out or eliminating them is to deprive them of any food. This means deep-cleaning your home and ensuring all foods are kept inside sealed containers.
Work surfaces should also be washed down and the floor cleaned regularly. If there is no food, there will be nothing to attract the pests.
4. Essential Oils
Cockroaches are not keen on peppermint, citrus, and cypress. Combine a few drops of these essential oils onto a cotton ball and then place it in areas of your home where you’ve seen cockroaches.
They will steer well clear of them and you can use this effect to stop them from gaining access to your home.
5. Bay leaves
You may be surprised to learn that bay leaves deter cockroaches. Simply crush the leaves and sprinkle them around potential entry points. The cockroaches detest the smell and will stay well away.
Of course, you’ll need to replenish your natural remedies regularly to ensure they remain effective.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
