How do Cockroaches Get in the House? How Can I Prevent it?

Have you spotted a cockroach in your home? When you think of cockroaches, you might picture filthy sewer systems or derelict housing. These pests only live in the most disgusting conditions, right? So how did one get in the house, and why? The truth is, cockroaches are attracted to any warm place that offers some kind of food, and they are very good at finding their way inside. If you’re worried about cockroaches, call Cockroach Control Toronto and we’ll answer whatever questions you may have.

Cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers that move from place to place in search of food and warmth. The German cockroach, which is the most common species in Canada, is particularly attracted to kitchens and bathrooms. This species migrates by crawling through walls and pipes, or by hitching a ride on furniture, clothing, luggage, and carboard boxes. These insects are highly adaptable and will settle down in any building, no matter how clean or beautiful it may be. Cockroaches need very little to survive and they spread very quickly if there is no intervention. 

Once cockroaches have invaded the home, they like to hide in the dark cracks and crevices of the kitchen or bathroom. During the day, cockroaches can be found hiding in cabinets, under sinks, and under appliances. Cockroaches can fit through tiny gaps, so they can also be found hiding behind electrical outlets or cabinets. You might be surprised to find out that cockroaches find their way into dishwashers, as well as these bugs, seek these areas out for their easy access to food and moisture. They are usually hiding during the day and come out at night. 

In order to prevent a cockroach infestation, you should practice good hygiene and housekeeping. Don’t leave any food out on the kitchen table or counter and make sure to do the dishes every day. Take out the garbage every night as well. Wipe down work surfaces and vacuum regularly so as not to leave any crumbs or grease lying around. Store food in sealable containers. It’s also a good idea to inspect any cardboard boxes or pieces of used furniture that you bring into the house for any pests. To help block any roaches from entering the house, you should also seal any cracks and crevices you find in the kitchen or bathroom. It’s important to remember though that it only takes one pregnant cockroach to infest a living space. These are good habits to have and they may decrease the likelihood of attracting roaches into your home, but they won’t prevent it entirely. And once roaches have settled, it’s very hard to get rid of them. None of these tricks will make them go away. 

If you have cockroaches and want them gone for good, you need the help of a professional. Store-bought products are only temporary solutions that don’t eliminate the cockroach population entirely. A pest removal technician has access to the tools and materials required to make them disappear. At The Exterminators Inc., we use a combination of treatments to draw the insects out of their hard-to-find hiding places, eliminate them on the spot, and prevent their reoccurrence. Call The Exterminators Inc. today for a free quote.