How To:

1. 1

   Determine if you have a cockroach infestation in your kitchen. Yes, we know cockroaches are elsewhere in the home, but start your search in the kitchen. They’re attracted to that area of the home because of food and standing water. If you’ve seen one roach, there’s a good chance there are more. They hide during the day, so search at night in the areas you believe are infested. Look for clues of infestation like droppings, slimy brown stains, and gnawed paper and cardboard.

2. 2

   Seal up obvious holes and entryways. Cockroaches can also get in through pipes and drains, so you will not be able to seal all entryways.

3. 3

   Use cockroach bait to kill the roaches. Be careful – most cockroach baits contain boric acid, which is deadly if ingested by pets and children. Unfortunately, kid-friendly baits don’t typically kill the roaches; they actually end up dragging the bait back to their young to feed them. Be sure to keep pets and children out of the infested area.

4. 4

   Tip: Outdoor cockroach spray works better than indoor spray. Spray outdoor spray in the kitchen, then open the windows and leave the house for a few hours.

5. 5

   If you live in a drier climate, you can create a non-toxic trap with water and soap. Pour water and soap into the bottom of a large jar. The water will attract the cockroaches, but they won’t be able to get out, and the soap will kill them.

6. 6

   Prevent re-infestation. Be sure to keep the kitchen clean, especially the stove and oven. Cockroaches love grease. Also, take the trash out regularly, keep food sealed, and keep the kitchen dry. Water is the number one thing that attracts cockroaches.

7. 7

   If you believe cockroaches are entering through your drain, regularly pour bleach down the drain.

8. 8

   Cockroaches are hard to get out of the house. So, if all else fails, call a professional.