Roaches look a little bit like large beetles. Their bodies have a hard shell, they are usually a reddish-brown color, they are an oval shape, and they have six legs. They can be anywhere in size from 1 1/4" to over 2" in length as adults. These pests aren't overly friendly and try their best to avoid humans and light whenever possible. If you have cockroaches in your home, you need to get rid of them immediately before an infestation occurs. Read on for some extermination tips you can try on your own, as well as prevention tips.
Extermination Tips
- First and foremost, you need to figure out if you have a cockroach problem. If you have spotted dead cockroaches in your home, seen live cockroaches scurry when you turn on the lights, or you've seen their droppings, which look very similar to rodent droppings, then you most likely have a problem with roaches.
- Once you've determined that roaches are the problem, you need to take precautions around your home to prevent more roaches from coming in. Take a look around at the seals on your doors and windows to be sure they aren't coming in from there. Also, look for any gaps or openings along your foundation. Make any necessary repairs to prevent these and other pests from coming in.
- After you've made repairs, you need to begin killing off the pests still living in your home. Setting off an insect bomb can help, and one should be used on every level of your home. Make sure all of your pets (and family members) are out of your home before you use any type of insect bomb in your home. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using this type of product.
- Remove all of the dead roaches you find and dispose of them properly. Look in dimly lit areas for any dead roaches as well, as this is usually where you'll find them.
- After you've removed the dead roaches, keep an eye out for any other new signs of these or other pests in your home.
Prevention Tips
Prevent roaches from coming into your home in the first place by getting rid of their food and water source. If you have any water leaks in your home, make the necessary repairs. Put all food in air-tight containers and clean up your kitchen after each and every meal. Don't leave dishes in the sink and always empty the drain stop after doing the dishes, as roaches can find a good meal in these areas as well. Never leave garbage out and take your full garbage bag out to the garbage can, making sure it has a secure lid to prevent roaches or other pests.
If you have roaches in your home and you aren't sure how to get rid of them on your own, call an exterminator service.