How to Get Rid of Cockroaches in your House

Whether you are in the country or the city, unfortunately, cockroaches are a way of life. Even the cleanest of homes can be subject to an infestation of roaches. Remember, there is never just one roach. Here are some steps you can take to rid your home of roaches forever.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Boric acid
• cleaning supplies
• patience

1. The first step to riding your home of roaches is to clean. Roaches aren't picky about what they eat and they don't need a lot to survive. Roaches are active at night, so you might never know exactly what they've gotten into. Put away all food and keep counters clean. Pull away your stove and fridge and clean behind them and the sides of the appliances.
2. Roaches like garbage. Get a tightly covered garbage can for your kitchen and take out the trash frequently. Rinse all of your recyclables. Wipe down all the shelves and cupboards in your kitchen and bathrooms.
3. Seal any cracks and holes in the walls and floor. Caulk drains and fix any leaks in the bathroom and kitchen. Roaches love drains and water! Use drain covers to keep drains closed when not in use.
4. Clean up areas outside of the house like lumber piles, animal droppings and garbage piles. Roaches will nest in anything, so get rid of old boxes, paper, clothing or anything else not in use.
5. Boric acid is your friend! You can get boric acid powder at many stores, such as the pharmacy and home improvement store. Sprinkle this powder very lightly in all secluded areas where roaches might be; behind the stove, the fridge and under cabinets. Use a very light dusting. If there is too much powder, the roaches won't walk through it.
   
   Boric acid gets on the roach's feet and he tracks it back to his nest, giving access to the other roaches who live there. When they lick the powder off their feet, they dehydrate and die. This is a very effective way to get rid of roaches. It is not as poisonous to humans and animals as other insecticides.
6. For areas where pets and children are present, plastic coated roach bait traps placed in hard to reach areas like under the sink can help.

Tips & Warnings

• If you see a roach, it means you have a problem. Act fast!
• Keep the house exceptionally clean until you know the problem has been removed.
• Adhere to all warnings on roach bait and boric acid containers.