Although it is a slow process, getting rid of cockroaches naturally doesn’t leave exposure to harmful chemicals or pesticides. In fact, when you reach the point of making the solution to kill the roaches, the items needed are more than likely ones that you already have in your cupboard or can run to the store and grab for just a small price. Using a nontoxic option for pest control is a great alternative for families with small children, nosy pets, or even those who do not want to hire an exterminator.
Step 1: Clean up the problem
First and foremost, you must do your part to not attract cockroaches in the first place. The mess from household pets, children, or even just everyday messes made by adults can attract roaches. Wipe up any messes on the kitchen counter, don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink, clean the stove top, and sweep the floor all before you go to bed at night. This might seem daunting, but just think about the roach infestation that could happen if left.
Fifteen minutes of housework each night can save the hassle of dealing with roaches, which will likely be a battle that lasts many weeks.
Step 2: Fill in cracks and holes
What good is cleaning up your mess if the roaches can still get in and navigate your home? Important places to check are inside of the pantry, the baseboards, and the space between the counter and the wall. Tiny roaches can crawl through even the smallest of holes, so this is worth the effort. A simple tube of caulking can aid in patching most holes.
Take note of any rooms that seem to be particularly inviting to roaches and give them a thorough look over. All possible entries need to be sealed.
Step 3: Fix all water leaks
Water and moisture in general attract roaches, which is why roaches are frequently found under sinks. Some cockroaches are capable of surviving months without food but just days with no water. When you cut off their source of water, you can aid in killing them. When you are fixing leaks, be sure that there is no standing water where the leaks were, and be sure that there is no water damage near that could be housing any roaches.
Once this step is done, you are prepared to make the necessary baits to kill any cockroaches that are living inside or around the home.
Step 4: Prepare natural bait powder
Three parts of boric acid should be mixed with one part powdered sugar. The sugar will lure the roaches in while the boric acid kills them. Keep in mind that even though the boric acid isn’t toxic to humans or their pets, it can cause irritation. This mixture should be placed behind and under the stove, dishwasher, sinks, and refrigerator. The mixture is one of the simplest, most cost effective, and easiest to distribute. Another great thing is that it is easy to clean up when it is no longer needed. A large batch can be made and stored in a container for later use, and it can be used both inside and outside.
Step 5: Prepare natural bait balls
After you have secured the hidden portions of your home with powder, you must secure the not-so-hidden places with bait balls that can be placed anywhere on the floor. You will need an old margarine tub with four 1 inch holes at the rim, do not cut the lid. In a bowl, mix 1 cup borax, ½ cup sugar, and ½ cup bacon grease. The mixture should be moist enough to form balls. Form the balls and place the bait balls on the container lid, cover with the container and snap on. This can now be placed anywhere in the home where there are roaches believed to be living.
If using this method outdoors, only 1 hole should be cut in the tub. This will help to protect the bait balls from the outside elements. These balls will lure the cockroaches into the container, and the pests will carry the bait back to their nest. When the colony feeds on this bait, they will perish and hopefully rectify the problem.
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