Insights, Tips, and Tales

Preventing and Controlling Cockroaches

_ëîé_1

Preventing and Controlling Cockroaches

Believe it or not, cockroaches are very important to our environment. Not only are the key contributors to nutrient recycling, but they also provide a steady food source for our local wildlife. There are 25 native species of cockroaches and five of those species are responsible for giving the others their bad reputation. Of those five, the German and the Brown-banded cockroaches are indoor and considered to be the most common. The American, the Smokybrown and the Oriental cockroaches are also common but they thrive outdoors.

Currently, IPM (Integrated Pest Management) is the best method of prevention and control. Rather than just treating the symptoms, one studies the behaviors of the species in order to understand them, and customizes a solution to prevent them. IPM is important because cockroaches are known for their extraordinary ability to adapt and survive. Keep in mind that these pests have been around long before the dawn of the dinosaur. As one could imagine, it’s a given that cockroaches know a thing or two about survival.

Now, ridding your home of these creepy little critters is like playing one big game of chess. The only exception is that your opponent has three times the amount of pawns you have at their disposal. However, like chess, success lies within your strategy and observing your opponent. Knowing who/what you are up against and their typical moves will give you the advantage of being one step ahead.

Get to Know the Cockroach

Cockroach are omnivores, meaning they will eat anything plant or animal-based. In other words, unless they are given a reason to not eat something, you can count on them to at least do a taste test. They can go a full month without food. Must have moisture to survive. They can only live for about a week without water.
They prefer dark, warm humid places and can often be found in kitchens or bathrooms. Cockroach can live about a week without their head. Oh yeah, you read that correctly…a full week without their head! Ugh!

Know the Signs of an Infestation

Small cockroaches leave black droppings that resemble black pepper. Large cockroaches leave black or brown droppings that have ridges on the side and a blunt ending. These are often mistaken for mouse droppings. Female cockroaches lay egg capsules that appear to be “glued” to surfaces and can often be found near food sources, under cabinets, in basements, laundry rooms, or bathrooms. Pheromones produced by cockroaches have a “musty” smell and can trigger allergies and asthma.

Prevention and Control

Eliminate what they need to survive: food, water, and shelter.
Pick/clean up after eating and clean up spills or crumbs immediately. Pay special attention to keeping the garbage can and surrounding area clean. Vacuum, mop, and sanitize weekly. Use airtight containers for food storage. Don’t leave pet food or water bowls out at night.
Declutter and remove any potential hiding places.
Seal off any cracks or crevices around windows, doors, piping or wiring. Use environmentally safe bait stations or sticky traps to identify “hot spots” and reduce infestation.

If you are still seeing cockroaches, we encourage you to contact us at 1-866-WAYNES1. Our Pest team is well versed in the IPM process and are prepared to customize a plan that works for you.

Latest from Waynes Blog

Waynes Joins Forces with Donnie’s Total Pride Pest Control in Port St. Joe, FL

We’re excited to share some big news—Waynes Pest Control is expanding our service in the Florida Panhandle! We’ve officially joined forces with Donnie’s Total Pride Pest Control, a trusted, family-owned company that has served Port St. Joe, Florida and surrounding areas for over 30 years. This partnership brings together two companies that share a passion…

Learn More >

how to prevent ants in your home

Stop Ants in Their Tracks—How to Keep Ants Out Of Your House: 7 Quick Tips

Ants might be tiny, but they can become a big nuisance fast. Whether it’s a few scouts in your pantry or a full trail marching into your kitchen, these pests can quickly overstay their welcome if the conditions are right. Why Do I Have Ants in My House? Here in the Southeast, with our warm,…

Learn More >

What’s That Weed in My Yard?

Summer is prime growing season — not just for grass, but for weeds too. In the Southeast, lawns with warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine are especially vulnerable to a surge of weeds when heat and humidity rise. If you’ve spotted patchy invaders in your yard, now’s the time to take action to…

Learn More >

Huntsville family standing in front of their home after a pest control service

Most Common Household Pests in Huntsville (and How to Stop Them)

Huntsville, Alabama, with its beautiful landscapes and vibrant community, is a fantastic place to call home. However, like many regions in the southeastern United States, homeowners here often find themselves in an ongoing battle against unwanted guests: household pests. Understanding the common culprits and knowing how to address them is key to maintaining a comfortable…

Learn More >

Waynes team member with client

Top Questions to Ask a Huntsville Pest Control Company

At Waynes Pest Control, we understand that inviting a Huntsville pest control company into your home is a significant decision. You’re entrusting us with the safety and comfort of your family and the protection of your property. That’s why we believe in transparency and open communication. Just as you’d research any important service, it’s wise to…

Learn More >

How to Tell if You Have Raccoons or Squirrels in Your Home

Raccoons or Squirrels in Your Home? Here’s How to Tell — and Why DIY Wildlife Removal Is a Risky Move Is Something Wild Living in Your Home? As temperatures rise and food becomes more abundant, raccoons, squirrels, and other wildlife become increasingly active — and sometimes that means moving into your home. Attics, crawl spaces,…

Learn More >

Waynes Lawn Care is Available in the Gulf Coast!

For years, Waynes has been trusted to keep lawns lush, green, and barefoot good across our service areas. Now, we’re bringing our expert lawn care program to the Gulf Coast! With over 8,000 properties already enjoying the benefits of our year-round lawn care program, homeowners across Alabama Gulf Coast and the Florida Panhandle can now…

Learn More >

Introducing EnviroPest Bundles

Home maintenance can feel like a lot — but it doesn’t have to be. That’s why we created EnviroPest Bundles at Waynes Pest Control. These bundles let you pick the services your home needs, so you only pay for what you want. Bundling also means less paperwork, fewer service providers, and a simpler, more convenient…

Learn More >

Protect Yourself from Misleading Pest Control Sales

At Waynes Pest Control, we pride ourselves on delivering honest, expert service that families can trust. Unfortunately, not all companies play by the same rules — especially when it comes to door-to-door sales. What’s Happening During warmer months, some national pest control companies send large teams of door-to-door salespeople into neighborhoods. These reps are often…

Learn More >

Scroll to Top