To kill a cockroach effectively, you have several options ranging from homemade remedies to commercial products:
Homemade Methods
- Baking Soda and Sugar Trap: Mix equal parts sugar and baking soda and place the mixture in shallow bowls where cockroaches frequent. The sugar attracts them, and the baking soda causes fatal digestive issues
- Dish Soap and Water Spray: A mixture of dish soap and water sprayed directly on cockroaches suffocates them by clogging their breathing pores
- Boric Acid: Sprinkle boric acid powder in dark, damp corners. It dehydrates and kills cockroaches on contact. Combining boric acid with an attractant like raw egg yolk can increase effectiveness
- Sticky Traps: Place sticky traps in areas where cockroaches hide. They catch and kill roaches that come into contact with the adhesive
Commercial Products
- Aerosol Sprays: Roach killer sprays (e.g., Raid or Harris Roach Killer Aerosol) kill cockroaches quickly on contact by affecting their nervous system. Aim and spray directly on the roach
- Gel Baits: Apply gel bait near feeding areas. Roaches consume the bait and carry poison back to their nest, killing others over time
- Foggers: Insecticide foggers fill a room with pesticide fog to kill cockroaches in hard-to-reach places. Use with caution and follow instructions carefully
- Pre-packaged Baits: Products like Mortein Powergard Cockroach Baits are effective, discreet, and mess-free. Place them in dark, humid areas to reduce roach populations over about a week
Additional Tips
- Combine methods for best results, such as using sprays for immediate kills and baits or traps for longer-term control
- Maintain cleanliness by removing food and water sources to discourage roach infestations
- Be patient, as complete eradication can take time
In summary, quick kills can be achieved with sprays or soapy water, while baking soda traps, boric acid, and commercial baits provide effective ongoing control
