Cockroaches aren't only unpleasant. Their droppings, shed skins and bodies can trigger asthma and allergies, which makes how you get rid of them almost as important as getting rid of them. Penn State Extension's integrated pest management guidance favors cutting off food and water and using baits over sprays. For treatment, see cockroach control, or our guide to pest control in Prattville.
Roaches and asthma
Penn State Extension notes that cockroaches shed skins, leave feces and, when they die, their bodies turn into dust, all of which can trigger asthma attacks. It also notes that cockroach allergens can remain active in a home for up to six months, so cleaning up after treatment matters.
Starve them first
- store food in tight-lidded plastic or glass containers
- use a lidded trash can and empty it often
- don't leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight
- clean under the refrigerator, stove and oven
- store pet food in sealed containers and pick up bowls at night
- fix leaks and wipe up spills, because roaches need water
Seal and monitor
Caulk cracks and crevices, and plug larger holes where pipes enter walls with steel or copper mesh and caulk. Sticky traps in kitchens and bathrooms show where roaches are active and whether treatment is working.
Baits beat sprays indoors
Penn State Extension recommends tamper-resistant bait stations and gel baits, which lower the risk of contact or inhalation, over pellet baits, aerosols, liquid sprays and bug bombs, which increase chemical exposure. Dusts such as boric acid can be used sparingly inside wall voids, but not in open rooms or on counters. Always read the whole label and store pesticides locked away from children.
When to call a pro
Small light-brown roaches seen during the day usually mean a large German cockroach population breeding indoors. That's the point to bring in a company that uses targeted baiting and follow-up visits rather than spraying the whole house.
German or American?
Small, light-brown roaches with two dark stripes behind the head, found in kitchens and bathrooms, are usually German cockroaches, which breed indoors and multiply quickly. Larger reddish-brown roaches that wander in from outside, crawl spaces or drains are usually American cockroaches or related species. The difference matters, because German roaches need indoor baiting and follow-up, while outdoor species are often handled by sealing and exterior treatment.
Clean up after treatment
Because Penn State Extension notes roach allergens can stay active for up to six months, cleaning after the roaches are gone helps people with asthma. Clean under and behind appliances, wipe cabinets and vacuum thoroughly. Keep up the food and water habits that starved them out.