When you think of a household pest, you probably think of a cockroach. And when you think of a cockroach, you think about the best way to get rid of them, and fast! Since cockroaches have existed between 354 and 295 million years, humans have had a long and horrible relationship with them. Cockroaches are part of the Blattaria family and of the 4,500 types, 30 are associated with humans, and fortunately only 4 of them are common pests. These 4 are known as the American cockroach, the German cockroach, the Asian cockroach, and the oriental cockroach. The word ‘Cucaracha’ comes from a Spanish word that’s a bit fun to say, ‘Cucaracha’ which means Crazy Bug.
Now that we know their history, how do we kill them? There are many ways, some cleaner, some more effective, and some more organic than others. Here is a list to remember, because sooner or later, you will probably need it.
Eliminate roaches organically:
Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder that is used for a number of things, such as cat litter, dynamite stabilizer component, pool filters, and killing roaches. They are actually the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae that has a hard shell. When sprayed around the area where roaches live, this brittle shell cuts through the roach’s shell, dries it out, and ultimately kills it. It may take some time, but it is effective and safe.
Wasps are a predatory insect that feed on roach eggs and even attack and eat roaches. Wasps have a stigma attached to them, but like most stinging flying insects, if you leave them alone, they will leave you alone and hopefully eat all of your roaches. It may not be the most effective, but it sure is organic.
Low toxicity cockroach removal methods:
Boric acid is another widely used pesticide. When mixed with different mixtures of sugar, water, and flour, it becomes a bait ball that attracts roaches. They will eat it, carry it back to its nest, and eventually die of dehydration, just like the other roaches that share the bait.
Common dish soap is one of the best pesticides, it works with all kinds of pests. One cup of water for one teaspoon. of soap, mix, in a bottle of water, spray cockroaches. The soapy solution dries up, dehydrates the pest, dies. It’s that easy. Note that this method is not for a massive infestation. For that, read below.
High toxicity roach removal products:
When the roaches take effect, it’s time for chemical warfare. Most commercial grade poisons can be purchased at almost any type of store. Poisons can come in many forms, such as spray, nebulizer, gel, and bait ball. The problem with an atomizer and nebulizer is that it covers large areas but is not really controllable. It’s safe to say that you don’t want the pesticide to cover all of your belongings, especially if you have children. The safest alternative that is still very effective is gels and bait balls. Some of the best brands are:
Combat Fountain Killing for Large Roaches – Easy to use child proof baits. Well for up to three months, they eat it and die.
Grants Kills Ant and Roach Bait Syringe – placement exactly where you need it, in cracks and crevices. The bait is returned to the nest and shared by all, for indoor and outdoor use.
Chalk to kill cockroaches and black flag ants – forms a barrier that, when used correctly, kills cockroaches within minutes of contact. The chalk barrier is visible to the naked eye so you know where you are going.
