German Cockroaches

It is important to do a visual inspection first when trying to control a German cockroach population. You will need a good flashlight to help you see into small cracks and crevices that these pests like to hide in. Once you have found where they are nesting, you can begin to treat the area with a pesticide. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the product.

starts in the kitchen

The first step in German cockroach control is to clean up the kitchen. This means removing all food sources and sanitation. All food should be properly stored in airtight containers and the kitchen should be kept clean. Cockroaches are attracted to food, so the less food available, the less likely they are to infest your home. The second step is to identify and seal all potential entry points. Cockroaches can squeeze through very small cracks and crevices, so it’s important to check around doors, windows, and pipes for any gaps. Caulk or seal these openings to prevent cockroaches from getting inside. The third step is to set up cockroach traps. There are many different traps available, so choose the one that best suits your needs.

If you see these pests during the day, it’s likely you have an infestation. At night, use a flashlight to look for them in dark, hidden areas like behind the refrigerator or stove. 

• Droppings. German cockroaches leave small, dark feces everywhere they go. Look for these droppings in areas where you’ve seen cockroaches or where you think they might be hiding.
• Egg capsules. Female German cockroaches can lay up to 50 eggs at a time. These eggs are contained in a small, brown capsule that the female will drop in a hidden, safe place.
• Smear marks. Cockroaches secrete a substance that leaves behind brown smear marks. These marks are often found near areas where cockroaches are hiding or where they’ve been traveling.
• Unusual smells. Cockroaches emit a musty, unpleasant smell. If you notice this smell in your home, it could be a sign of an infestation.

German cockroaches are attracted to the bait, so the trap should be baited with something that will attract them. Once the cockroach enters the trap, it will be unable to escape and will eventually die. The fourth step is to use a residual insecticide. Residual insecticides are designed to kill cockroaches that come in contact with the treated surface. These products can be applied around doors, windows, and other potential entry points to create a barrier that cockroaches cannot cross. The fifth and final step is to maintain cleanliness. Even if all the other steps are taken, cockroaches will still be attracted to dirty environments. Be sure to regularly sweep and mop your floors, and vacuum any carpets to remove any food or crumbs that might attract cockroaches. By following these steps, you can effectively control German cockroaches in your kitchen and keep them from coming back. (Related: Home Pest Control)