10 Ways to Eliminate Cockroaches from Your Home Forever!

Cockroaches. Just the sight of them scurrying across your kitchen floor can send shivers down your spine. These resilient pests aren’t just unpleasant to look at—they carry harmful bacteria and allergens, posing a serious threat to your health and home hygiene. Getting rid of them might feel like an uphill battle, but with the right approach and some persistence, you can kick them out for good.

At Rentokil PCI, we know just how frustrating and worrying a cockroach problem can be. With years of experience in pest control, we’ve put together ten practical and effective ways to deal with these stubborn pests and take back your home for good.

How to get rid of Cockroaches at home: 10 Easy Ways

1. Maintain Impeccable Kitchen Hygiene: Starve Them Out

Cockroaches are mostly drawn to food. So, cutting off their supply is the first and most important step in keeping them away.

• Clean Spills Immediately: Even a few crumbs can be a feast for roaches, so wipe up food and liquid spills as soon as they happen.
• Store Food Properly: Keep all your food—yes, even pet food—in airtight containers. Avoid leaving anything uncovered on countertops or tables.
• Wash Dishes Promptly: Don’t let dirty dishes sit overnight. Make a habit of washing them right after meals.
• Clean Under Appliances: Roaches love the greasy, hidden areas behind stoves, fridges, and dishwashers. Clean these spots regularly.
• Empty Trash Regularly: Use bins with tight-fitting lids and make sure to empty them often.

2. Eliminate Water Sources: Deny Them Hydration

Like any living thing, cockroaches need water to survive. Cut off their access to moisture and you’ve already won half the battle.

• Fix Leaky Faucets and Pipes: Don’t ignore dripping taps or leaky pipes—roaches rely on these for water.
• Wipe Up Spills: Clean up water spills right away, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Dry Sinks and Bathtubs: Try to leave sinks and tubs dry when not in use.
• Address Condensation: Use dehumidifiers or improve ventilation if you notice moisture build-up, especially in bathrooms or basements.

3. Seal Entry Points: Block Their Access

Roaches can slip through the tiniest of cracks. Sealing those off can go a long way in keeping them out.

• Seal Cracks and Crevices: Use caulk to close up gaps in walls, floors, windows, and door frames.
• Check Around Pipes and Wires: Seal up holes where cables and pipes enter your home.
• Repair Damaged Screens: Make sure window and door screens are in good condition.
• Inspect Groceries and Boxes: Roaches can hitch a ride in cardboard boxes and grocery bags—always check before bringing them in.

4. Utilize Baits Strategically: Target the Colony

Baits work by taking out the whole colony. They contain slow-acting insecticides that the cockroaches carry back to their nests.

• Place Baits in Strategic Locations: Focus on places where you've seen activity—under sinks, behind appliances, and dark corners.
• Don’t Spray Over Baits: Insect sprays can deter roaches from the bait, making it ineffective.
• Replace Baits Regularly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to keep the bait fresh and working.

5. Employ Traps: Monitor and Reduce Populations

Sticky traps help you keep an eye on where roaches are most active and reduce their numbers.

• Place Traps in High-Traffic Areas: Set them where you often spot roaches.
• Monitor Trap Activity: Regularly check the traps to identify hotspots and track progress.
• Dispose of Traps Properly: Once they’re full, toss them out carefully to avoid spreading germs.

6. Boric Acid: A Natural Insecticide (Use with Caution)

Boric acid is a naturally derived substance that can be effective, but it needs to be used responsibly.

• Apply Lightly in Cracks and Crevices: A light dusting in hiding spots—behind appliances or along baseboards—can be effective.
• Keep Away from Food and Water: Never apply it near food prep areas or water sources.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: It’s toxic if ingested, so handle it with care.

7. Diatomaceous Earth: A Non-Toxic Option

Diatomaceous earth (DE) works by drying out a cockroach’s exoskeleton, eventually killing it. It’s safe to use when handled correctly.

• Sprinkle in Problem Areas: Dust a thin layer in areas where roaches are active.
• Avoid Wetting: DE only works when it’s dry.
• Use Food-Grade DE: Make sure it’s labeled food-grade for safe indoor use.

8. Natural Repellents: Supplement Your Efforts

These won’t kill roaches, but they can help keep them away when used alongside other methods.

• Bay Leaves: Roaches dislike their scent—tuck some in cabinets and corners.
• Citrus Peels: Place fresh peels in problem areas to deter them.
• Essential Oils: Oils like peppermint or cypress can be diluted with water and sprayed around infested spots.

9. Maintain a Clutter-Free Home: Reduce Harborage

Cockroaches love to hide in clutter. The less mess you have, the fewer places they’ll find to hide.

• Declutter Regularly: Especially in storage areas like closets and basements.
• Organize Belongings: Keep things tidy and off the floor.
• Store Cardboard Boxes Properly: Roaches thrive in cardboard—use sealed containers instead or dispose of boxes quickly.

10. Seek Professional Pest Control: The Ultimate Solution

If you’re dealing with a serious or recurring infestation, your best bet is to call in the pros.

• Expert Identification: Our trained technicians will identify the species and assess the problem thoroughly.
• Targeted Treatments: We use professional-grade solutions that go beyond what store-bought products can offer.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Our approach tackles the root of the problem for lasting results.
• Safe and Effective Solutions: All our treatments are carried out by experts with your family’s safety in mind.

Eliminate Cockroaches Forever with Rentokil PCI

Don’t let cockroaches rule your home. With these ten proven methods—and help from the experts at Rentokil PCI—you can get rid of them for good and enjoy a cleaner, safer living space.

Contact Us Today:

Need professional cockroach control? Call Rentokil PCI at 022-62604733 and book your service in Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, or any other top metro city in India. Take back your home with help from the trusted experts at Rentokil PCI!