How to deal effectively with cockroaches

Why cockroaches appear

Cockroaches look for three things: food, water and warm, dark shelter. Kitchens, bathrooms, drains and the spaces behind appliances offer ideal conditions.

They often enter through cracks, pipes and drains, or are carried in inside cardboard boxes and groceries.

Signs of an infestation

Cockroaches visible at night, small dark droppings (like pepper grains), egg cases (oothecae) and a distinctive smell in heavy infestations.

If you see cockroaches during the day too, it usually points to a large population.

5 prevention steps

1. Keep surfaces dry and fix any leaks — moisture attracts them.

2. Store food in airtight containers and clean up residue and crumbs.

3. Empty the bins regularly and keep them closed.

4. Seal cracks, joints and gaps around pipework.

5. Clean behind and under the fridge, cooker and cupboards.

Prevention, identification and professional treatment

Insecticidal gel baits combine an attractive food with a slow-acting active substance. A cockroach that eats the bait returns to its harbourage, and the active substance can pass to other individuals through its droppings or the dead insect (secondary action). The population therefore declines gradually; the result depends on the species, the extent of the infestation and correct bait placement.

Monitoring traps help locate the sources. Avoid general-purpose sprays, which scatter the population without eliminating the nest.

When you need professional pest control

If the infestation persists, returns or is extensive, professional pest control with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the most reliable solution.

A licensed professional locates the sources, applies targeted products and designs a prevention plan tailored to your space.