How to Keep Cockroaches Out of Your Home for Good

Cockroaches have survived for 300 million years by being incredibly adaptable. They can live for a week without their head, survive on glue or soap, and squeeze through gaps thinner than a coin. Keeping them out requires a multi-layered approach.

Seal Every Entry Point

Inspect the perimeter of your home for cracks around pipes, vents, and door frames. Use silicone caulk to seal gaps. Pay special attention to where utility lines enter the building — a 3mm gap is all a cockroach needs.

Eliminate Food Sources

Store all food in airtight containers. Clean up crumbs and spills immediately. Don't leave pet food bowls out overnight. Take the rubbish out every evening rather than letting it sit until morning.

Fix Moisture Problems

Cockroaches need water more than food. Fix dripping taps, dry out under-sink areas, and use a dehumidifier in damp basements. A dry home is a cockroach-resistant home.

Declutter Hiding Spots

Stacked cardboard boxes, piles of newspapers, and cluttered storage rooms provide perfect harbourage. Switch to plastic bins and keep storage areas tidy and elevated off the floor.

Use Preventive Gel Bait

Apply small dots of professional gel bait behind appliances, under sinks, and inside cabinet hinges every 3 months. Unlike sprays, gel bait targets the entire colony through secondary poisoning.

Know When DIY Isn't Enough

If you see cockroaches during the day, find egg cases, or smell a musty odour, the infestation is significant. At that point, professional treatment is far more effective and economical than store-bought products.