The NPIC specialist explained that cockroaches can survive anywhere they are able to find food, water,
and shelter.
Cockroaches get into homes by:
- sneaking in on grocery bags or other containers
- crawling inside from outdoors
- moving from one apartment, duplex, or condo unit to another through the plumbing and other holes
in shared walls.
Once inside homes, cockroaches remain hidden by:
- finding shelter in narrow cracks and crevices, such as behind refrigerators, under sinks, and dark
drawers or cabinets
- foraging for food at night, eating a wide variety of foods and non-food materials. This allows them
to survive even in tidy homes.
Peggy learned that some pesticide sprays repel cockroaches rather than killing them. That's why many
experts recommend using an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. IPM uses a combination
of methods to prevent and eliminate pests in the most effective and least hazardous manner.
Prevention is the key to avoiding a cockroach infestation:
- Check bags and other containers for cockroaches before bringing them into the home.
- Seal visible cracks and holes around doors, windows, baseboards, pipes, and electrical outlets.
If a cockroach makes its way into your home, maintenance and good housekeeping are essential:
- Fix any water leaks in the kitchen or bathroom.
- Cover food (including pet food) and garbage containers with lids.
- Inspect your home for signs of cockroaches (eggs, cast skins) regularly.
Pesticide products may also be used in an IPM plan if necessary, However, remember to always read
the label first! Consider starting with the least-toxic options available. Peggy was given the telephone number for her cooperative extension service and the NPIC website about "Cockroaches" to learn more handy tips about roach control in her home.