10 effective tips to control cockroach infestation

With the increase in the temperature and humidity, its likely that houses especially kitchens get infested with cockroach. So, how can cockroaches be controlled in such situations.

Various natural, chemical, and practical methods can be used to eliminate cockroaches and control their infestation. Here’s a list of 10 effective tips to control cockroach infestation:

1. Regular cleaning

The main things that attract cockroaches are dirt and food residue. Therefore, keeping the house clean regularly is the first and most important step. Kitchen tables, areas where food falls or splashes, and the floor should be cleaned daily.

As cockroaches are active at night, preventing leftover food and waste from accumulating overnight helps stop them from being attracted to the kitchen. Garbage bins should be cleaned regularly, and if the day’s waste is not disposed of, the bin should be tightly covered.

2. Storing food properly

Cockroaches are attracted to the smell of food. So, food items should be stored in airtight containers or in the refrigerator. Open food, fruits, and vegetables should be covered to prevent cockroach infestation. Food scraps should be cleaned up immediately, and leftover food should be covered and stored properly.

3. Borax and sugar trap

Borax is a powerful chemical that kills cockroaches. Mix equal parts of borax powder and sugar. Sprinkle the mixture in areas where cockroaches are commonly seen—such as kitchen corners, drawers, or behind furniture.

Sugar attracts the cockroaches, while borax destroys their digestive system. Keep this mixture out of reach of children and pets.

4. Baking soda and sugar mix

Baking soda is a natural and safe option. Mix equal parts of baking soda and sugar and sprinkle it in cockroach-infested areas. When cockroaches eat the mixture, it creates gas in their stomachs, which kills them.

This method is ideal for those who prefer not to use chemical pesticides. It does not harm humans or pets.

5. Peppermint oil spray

Cockroaches dislike strong smells. Peppermint oil is a natural repellent. Mix 10–15 drops of peppermint oil with a cup of water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray it in areas where cockroaches are likely to hide. This method is safe and environmentally friendly.

6. Garlic, onion, and pepper spray

This natural mixture helps repel cockroaches. Boil one clove of garlic, one onion, and one tablespoon of pepper powder in a liter of water. Strain the mixture and store it in a spray bottle. Spray it in cockroach-infested areas. The smell keeps them away.

7. Waste management

Cockroaches prefer dirty environments. So, garbage bins must be managed properly. Dispose of waste regularly, and if that’s not possible, keep the bin tightly covered. Wash the bins frequently to prevent odors.

8. Control water sources

Cockroaches need water to survive. Eliminating water sources reduces their chances of survival. Do not allow water to stagnate, cover water containers, and keep kitchen sinks and bathrooms dry at night to deprive them of access to water.

9. Use sticky traps

Sticky traps available in the market are effective for catching cockroaches. Place them along the paths where cockroaches are commonly seen. Baiting the traps with food crumbs can attract cockroaches. Dispose of the caught cockroaches properly to prevent re-infestation.

10. Use of insecticidal sprays

If natural methods fail, cockroaches can be eliminated using commercial insecticidal gels or sprays. Products like HIT gel, Maxforce gel, or other cockroach-killing sprays can be applied in areas where cockroaches hide.

When using such chemicals, be cautious about their effects on human health. Keep food items safe from contamination. Always wear a mask while spraying, and store chemicals out of reach of children.

It is important to check whether the cockroach infestation has been controlled. Even if they are not visible outside, hidden cockroaches can reproduce again. Check and clean corners, behind furniture, and walls where they might have laid eggs.

Seal small holes or gaps in walls and furniture where cockroaches may hide to prevent re-infestation.

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Originally published on June 15, 2025.

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