Cockroaches are not only a nuisance. They are also carriers of harmful bacteria and allergens that can make you sick. For those who live in Meridian, Idaho, cockroach control is crucial to keeping their homes healthy and comfortable.
The unique climate and growing neighborhood in the city create the best setting for cockroaches. However, there are ways to kick them out and prevent them from entering your home again. Click here to find a reliable company to turn to if you have an active roach infestation. Below are cockroach control methods that work:
Know Your Enemy
The most common types of roaches in Meridian are German and American cockroaches. German cockroaches are smaller and light brown. They love to hang out in kitchens and bathrooms. American cockroaches are larger and reddish-brown. They often live in basements, crawl spaces, and drains. These insects are quick breeders and experts at hiding, which means a small problem can quickly turn into a full-blown infestation. Spotting one or two might mean there are many more hiding in the walls or under appliances.
Keep Things Clean
Cockroaches are scavengers. They will stick around if they can find a few crumbs or drops of water. This makes it important to cut off their food supply. You can do this by wiping down kitchen counters and tables after every meal. Also, you should not leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight. Sweeping and mopping floors regularly can help make your home less appealing to these pests. Make sure your food is stored in sealed containers and take out the trash frequently.
Eliminate Water Sources
Roaches need water to survive, and they’ll travel far to find it. Summers in Meridian can get dry, so roaches are especially drawn to leaky pipes and moist spaces. To ensure they don’t stick around, check your home for, dripping faucets and leaky pipes under sinks, condensation around windows or on pipes, and damp rags or sponges left near the sink. Also, pet water bowls left out overnight can offer them the hydration they need to survive. Fix any leaks you find and try to keep areas as dry as possible. A dehumidifier can help in basements or other damp parts of your home.
Seal Up Entry Points
Cockroaches do not need much room to get inside. Cracks, gaps, and holes allow them to enter your home easily. So, seal up these entry points to prevent roaches from establishing themselves inside your house. Start by inspecting doors and windows for gaps and using weatherstripping to seal them. Use caulk around pipes, especially where they enter walls. Also, use mesh screens over vents and drains. Repair any holes in walls, especially near the kitchen or bathroom.
Use Baits and Traps
Baits work by attracting roaches with food that is mixed with poison. They eat it, go back to their nest, and spread it to others. You can find these in most hardware stores or online. Gel baits are especially effective and can be placed under sinks, behind appliances, and in other hard-to-reach areas. Sticky traps are also useful for monitoring. Place them along walls and behind furniture to see how bad the problem is and where the roaches come from.
Try Natural Remedies
There are natural methods that can help if you prefer to avoid chemical options. They can still be effective, especially as a prevention measure.
- Boric acid. This powder can be sprinkled in areas where roaches travel. It is toxic to them but should be used carefully if you have kids or pets.
- Diatomaceous earth. This is made from crushed fossils. It cuts into a cockroach’s body and dries them out. It is safe for humans and pets but messy, so use it in hidden spots.
- Essential oils. Some people swear by peppermint or eucalyptus oil. Mix the oil with water and spray in problematic areas. This will not kill roaches, but it might repel them.
