Cockroach infestations are anyone’s worst nightmare. Studded with all sorts of germs and gunk, these insects are likely to creep into the corners of your house and emerge from all kinds of openings.
Not only are they damaging to health (because of their close association with germs), but they are also unpleasant creatures to look at.
These signs will help you detect a cockroach infestation. We will also talk about ways to prevent and attenuate the intensity of a cockroach infestation.
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6 Brutal Signs of a Cockroach Infestation
1. Cockroach Feces
Cockroach droppings are black in color and resemble ground coffee. The feces of a smaller cockroach is often confused for black pepper specks! More giant cockroaches have relatively bigger and cylindrical feces.
If you find a dump of these in shady areas of your house, such as the back of the cabinet, kitchen corners, cupboards, or bathrooms, then you have a roach problem!
2. Weird Odor
This odor is found in damp areas such as the bathroom or basement. It’s hard to point out cockroach odor; some describe it like a smell coming from a trashcan, whereas others find it musty.
Using detergents to clean the area will eliminate the odor but won’t get rid of the infestation.
3. Allergies
Asthma patients would have to use their inhaler more often, whereas other family members might suffer from a persistent cough or stuffy nose. Wheezing, heaviness in the chest, and itchy eyes are also signs of a cockroach infestation. The proteins in their feces and exoskeletons spark allergies.
4. Eggshells
Oval-shaped eggshells or oothecae are common findings during a cockroach infestation. They indicate active breeding and reproduction. The color of these eggshells varies from species to species. American cockroaches have dark brown eggshells, whereas those from a German one are medium brown. Some may even have bands on them.
5. Witnessing Cockroaches
These are nocturnal creatures and are mostly spotted during the daytime. However, sighting during daylight hours may be indicative of an extensive infestation.
6. Nibbled Food Packages or Food
You won’t necessarily find bite marks but chewed-off food packages instead. These creatures feed on almost anything they come across, even wrappers!
If such is the case, you might be dealing with a cockroach infestation.
What Causes Cockroach Infestations?
There are two ways a cockroach might be attracted to your house.
Unhygienic Conditions
Leftover food on kitchen counters or tables is a feast for roaches. Always make sure to discard or store surplus food items before going to sleep.
Leaving a pile of dirty dishes in the sink will also give them something to lick on!
Excess Humidity and Moisture
Cockroaches love humid climates.
5 Ways to Prevent and Get Rid of Cockroach Infestations
Watch this video to discover 12 natural ways to get rid of a cockroach infestation.
Or simply refer to our tips mentioned below:
1. Maintain Excellent Hygiene
Make sure to employ the use of detergents to keep your house clean. Avoid leaving leftover food items on the table or kitchen counters for long periods.
2. Seal Cracks
These pesky creatures can peep through many openings, even the narrow ones. Make sure to seal them off for good.
3. Eliminate Hiding Spots
Cockroaches are likely to reside in abandoned places such as cartons, unused bathrooms, and basements.
4. Use Bug Spray or Roach Bait
Spray them directly to get rid of them immediately.
5. Immediate Action
Do not take this lightly. These roaches multiply fast, so immediate action is a must. Use the methods mentioned above to address an infestation.
Ask Away: The FAQ Section
It takes about two weeks to eradicate cockroaches, provided strict and prompt action is taken to address the infestation.
They might not come out all at once due to resistance to pesticides. However, spraying areas with cockroaches will result in gradual purging.
Behind refrigerators
Cartons
Newspapers or magazine shelves
Kitchen cabinets
Basements
Shady corners