How To Get Rid Of Cockroaches

Cockroaches are an instantly recognisable insect pest that can be both terrifying and difficult to remove.

In the UK there are only a few species of cockroaches found. German cockroaches and Oriental cockroaches are the most common, although American and brown-banded cockroaches are also found.

Whatever cockroach species you’re dealing with, it’s important that you don’t panic. Having provided cockroach control services throughout Cheshire for many years, the team at Pest In Peace understands how to get rid of cockroaches and keep them away, which is why we’ve put together this guide.

How Do Cockroaches Get Inside?

Cockroaches are flexible and can get through even the smallest of gaps in your property’s facade. While both German and Oriental cockroaches have wings, they can’t really fly, but can occasionally glide for short distances.

As such, they might also enter your space through an open window or door. Additionally, cockroaches can be carried inside in infested items, such as packages, shopping or secondhand items.

If you live in a flat or terraced house, cockroaches may gain entry through gaps in shared walls, drainage systems or air vents.

Cockroaches are looking for shelter and food, and prefer damp, humid environments. If they find a leaking tap or a damp area, and a regular supply of food, such as crumbs or dirty dishes, cockroaches reproduce quickly to turn just a few roaches into a major cockroach infestation.

Also, cockroaches use pheromones to attract other roaches, which means what starts as a few can soon become a significant cockroach problem.

Signs Of A Cockroach Infestation

Compared to other insects, such as ants, bed bugs and fleas, cockroaches are relatively large. Still, it can be hard to see them, so some other signs of cockroach activity include:

  • Cockroach Droppings: If you notice what looks like coffee grounds in cupboards or near kitchen appliances, this could be cockroach droppings.
  • Smear Marks: Cockroaches thrive in damp areas, which means they can leave behind smear marks on walls and skirting boards from where moisture mixes with their droppings.
  • Shed Skins: Shed skins look like translucent versions of cockroaches and are shed by young roaches as they grow.
  • Cockroach Eggs: Cockroach eggs are found in egg cases, or oothecae, which look small, brown, oval pouches.
  • A Musty Smell: A large infestation can cause an oily smell and trigger allergies or asthma symptoms.

How To Prevent Cockroaches

It can be difficult to prevent cockroaches, as they they are flexible and can easily get inside through even the smallest of gaps. Like with most pests, the key to keeping cockroaches away and reducing the likelihood of a cockroach infestation is to cut off their access to shelter, food and water sources.

That means ensuring your property is kept clean and that you don’t leave dirty dishes lying around for a long time. Hoover regularly to remove crumbs and wipe away food residue.

Make sure you store dried food inside sealed containers, instead of paper or plastic packaging that can easily be accessed by cockroaches.

It’s also important that you limit damp areas in your homes, as these can be potential breeding grounds for cockroaches. Check for leaks from pipes and make sure these are fixed promptly.

If you do notice any signs of cockroaches, you need to act fast. Cockroaches are hardy and can survive most over-the-counter cockroach treatments. They can cause health risks if left in your space, and can be particularly damaging for the reputation of commercial kitchens and hospitality providers.

How To Get Rid Of Cockroaches: Conclusion

Ultimately, while DIY cockroach control products might seem more affordable than professional pest control, these solutions are ineffective. They often don’t work against roaches, but can be toxic to children and pets.

For safe, fast and effective cockroach control, you need a professional service. Pest In Peace has extensive experience carrying out cockroach pest control throughout Cheshire, Wilmslow, Congleton, Handforth, Macclesfield and beyond.

Alongside domestic cockroach control, we also get rid of cockroaches from commercial premises as part of our commercial pest control contracts, with ongoing solutions that will protect commercial kitchens and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Our team are RSPH level 2 certified, meaning they have access to cockroach traps and insecticides that aren’t available to the general public. These cutting-edge solutions, combined with our expertise and understanding of cockroach behaviour, ensures that we eliminate cockroaches quickly.

To book your cockroach control appointment and stop these hardy insects from causing distress, contact us on 07980 597423.

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