How to Deal With Cockroaches in Your House?
Welcome to the sunny island of Gran Canaria, where beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine await. However, even in this paradise, there’s one unwelcome visitor that can turn your blissful abode into a nightmare: the notorious cockroach. These resilient pests are a common household problem, especially in tropical climates like Gran Canaria. But fear not! In this article, we will explore community recommendations for dealing with a cockroach infestation and ensuring that your island retreat remains a pest-free haven. From prevention to practical tips, we’ve gathered insights from fellow islanders to help you say goodbye to unwanted roommates and reclaim your home on this beautiful island.
Cockroach gel
Cockroach gel is a powerful tool for controlling cockroach infestations. It contains an insecticide, like fipronil, in a gel form. The gel is applied in small amounts in places where cockroaches hide or travel. Its scent attracts the cockroaches, and when they eat or come into contact with it, the gel kills them. This helps to eliminate the cockroach population by interfering with their breeding and foraging. Easy to use and effective, cockroach gel is a popular choice for both pest control professionals and homeowners who need a reliable way to get rid of these tough pests.
Cockroach gel works very well. I use it in combination with the spray, which I use around windows and doors to prevent them coming in. It lasts around a year but you can reapply earlier.
Buy cockroach gel and apply it in cracks and crevices. By the next morning, you’ll likely find dead cockroaches everywhere. Keep cleaning them up, and after a few days, you should be cockroach-free. I used Bayer’s gel, but any brand should work. Cockroach gel is effective because they are attracted to its scent and will eat it. It’s an affordable solution, and you can take the gel with you when you move out.
Cockroach Spray
Cockroach spray typically comes in a pressurized aerosol can. It contains active ingredients such as pyrethroids or other chemical compounds known for their effectiveness in killing and repelling cockroaches. The sprays are designed for direct application to cockroach-infested areas, allowing users to target the pests with precision. When sprayed, the fine mist or stream of insecticide quickly immobilizes or kills cockroaches on contact, while some sprays may leave a residual barrier to deter future infestations. This user-friendly and versatile solution is a popular choice for quick, on-the-spot control of cockroach populations in homes, businesses, and other settings.
We used Cucal Insecticida Aerosol Instant contra Cucarachas, Hormigas y sus Nidos (available at Hiperdino), and it worked quite well. After just a couple of days, we barely saw any cockroaches—only a few dead ones. Our landlady recommended this spray, saying she uses it every few months to keep pests under control year-round. You don’t need to spray it directly on the cockroaches; just applying it on surfaces where they travel will do the trick, as they die upon contact with the spray.
Calling An Exterminator
Fumigating your home with a professional exterminator is a thorough and effective way to tackle a cockroach infestation. The process starts with a detailed inspection to assess the infestation’s extent and identify cockroach hiding spots. Once the problem areas are pinpointed, the exterminator uses specialized equipment to release a powerful insecticidal gas. This gas reaches even the most hidden spots, like inside walls and crawlspaces, where cockroaches may be hiding. Fumigation targets all stages of cockroaches, including eggs, nymphs, and adults. Although it can be more disruptive and expensive than other methods, fumigation provides a complete solution and long-term protection against future infestations. For safety, residents need to temporarily leave the home during the process, but it’s a highly effective way to ensure a cockroach-free environment.
The best solution is to hire a professional. Experts are highly effective at eliminating cockroaches and preventing new infestations. For instance, my mom had her place fumigated by a specialist, who applied a long-lasting treatment in all the key areas. This treatment remains effective for over a year, killing any cockroaches that come into contact with it, whether they come from outside or from neighboring properties. Since then, my mom hasn’t seen any cockroaches in her home.
Prevention
Cockroach prevention measures are essential for maintaining a clean and sanitary living or working environment. To thwart these resilient pests, it’s crucial to start with good sanitation practices. Regularly clean and disinfect kitchens and other potential roach-attracting areas, sealing food in airtight containers and promptly cleaning up crumbs and spills. Minimize clutter and maintain a clutter-free living space, as cockroaches thrive in hidden, undisturbed areas. Seal cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and windows, as these can serve as entry points for roaches. Fix any leaks and reduce excess moisture, as cockroaches are drawn to water sources.
What often gets overlooked is prevention: no matter how many products you use, if there are always crumbs and food remnants in your kitchen, cockroaches will be attracted. In my previous apartments, I constantly dealt with cockroaches, but since I started living alone and storing all my food in glass containers, I haven’t seen any. Keeping your kitchen clean and food properly stored is key to preventing infestations.
Additionally, consider using cockroach traps and repellents as part of your prevention strategy. Regular inspections by pest control professionals can help catch early signs of infestation and apply preventive treatments when necessary, ensuring a cockroach-free environment.
