Not only are these creepy creatures horrifying, but they also spread disease and multiply quickly. Dont be petrified, be proactive! Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait is a fast and easy way to eradicate roaches and keep your home cockroach free.

If you need to control these pests, understanding what attracts them is essential to avoid future problems. But if you see signs of roaches, youll need to get rid of them fast.

And come to find out, these buggers fly too. Yikes, more ways for their army to infiltrate! If youve seen cockroaches or ants before, youve probably tried other products, traps or home remedies, perhaps to no avail. Seriously, this stuff works; with close to 18,000 satisfied Amazon users, Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait is a top performer without the lingering odor of sprays or the cost of an exterminator.

What is Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait?

Hot Shot Ultra Liquid Roach Bait stations are dark little houses that hold the bait that attracts and kills cockroaches.

Its compact size (about the size of a computer mouse) is perfect for tucking into a corner, behind the refrigerator or on the counter as a midnight snack for your foes.

A nice feature of the Hot Shot bait trap is the clear window to view the status of the bait supply. Youll know at a glance if its time to replace the unit. Roaches enjoy damp and dark spaces, hence the dark roof.

Unlike mouse traps, these bait stations dont capture the cockroach. Instead, theyre open on both sides, inviting roaches into the poison cafe for their last supper.

Pros

• Kills cockroaches and their eggs in hours
• Clear window to view bait
• No lingering odor
• Ease of use
• Highly effective
• Works for three months
• Affordable (costs less than an exterminator)
• Money-back guarantee

Cons

• Bait can dry up within a month

via merchant

$10.42 at Amazon

Shop on Walmart

Shop on Home Depot

We Tried It

Hot Shot Liquid Roch Bait

These roach bait traps are designed for indoor and outdoor use, and they quickly attract and kill roaches and their eggs.

$10.42 at Amazon

Shop on Walmart

Shop on Home Depot

How to Use Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait

Place the Hot Shot bait stations in areas where you suspect roach activity. Roaches need water, so you may find evidence near a water source, under sinks, on the counter or under the refrigerator. The manufacturer recommends putting five traps in the kitchen and at least one in the bathroom. If you have an infestation, more traps will be needed. And dont forget the basement!

Avoid getting this on your skin or eyes, as it’s a powerful poison. Safety first, please. If youre worried about pet-safe pest control, keep the Hot Shot Roach Liquid Bait traps out of your animal’s reach.

To bait the trap, take the black roof off to access the enclosed insecticide vial, then put the bait trap in place, keeping it level.

Next, gently pull the tab on the side of the trap to break the seal on the insecticide. Lastly, snap the roof back onto the base. Then, let the war of roaches begin!

Its important to check on the bait. Since the bait is an attractant, avoid putting it in places where roaches might not be hanging out, like the bedroom.

It only takes a few hours to kill the cockroach after ingestion of the bait. To keep your home cockroach free, replace the bait station every three months or more often if necessary.

How the Hot Shot Bait Works

It’s important to note that cockroaches can become immune to one type of bait if used consistently. Experts recommend switching brands and baits after long-term use, especially for apartment dwellers or homeowners in high-roach-density areas. However, if you want the job done right the first time, Hot Shot is highly effective and guarantees results.

Once you get rid of the disease-carrying creatures, keep additional repellents handy. Roaches avoid surprising things like chrysanthemum flowers, essential peppermint oil and ultrasonic devices.

The liquid attracts the roaches as a food and water source. Once they indulge in the treat youve strategically left for them to enjoy, it kills the cockroach within a few hours, and luckily, it kills the eggs too. If their friends eat the dead roach, they, too, will be poisoned. Its really quite poetic (insert evil laugh).

The Best Hot Shot Ultra Liquid Roach Bait Reviews on Amazon

Almost 18,000 Amazon customers have used Hot Shot including Trendy, one of the many five-star reviewers who commented, Hot shot works. I haven’t seen any roaches. I continually change them out. And they look a lot nicer than the other ones. Easy to use.

Amazon customer Miranda Hernandez says, This is the only cockroach bait that I have seen work. Ive tried boric acid powder, roach motels, the gel, combat sticks, pretty much everything under the sun. Ive seen roaches be attracted to this bait personally, but it only works well if you also put in the work. If you leave water in bowls or water for them to be attracted to they wont go to the bait as frequently because other water is available. I use them specifically by my front door of my apartment, under my sink, behind my oven and in every cranny that I find roaches to roam.

Amazon customer, Richard Petrovich gave Hot Shot five stars, saying, The first time I used these we woke up to finding at least one dead roach in the kitchen for a week. The next week, none. And they stay away for months. It finally rained after months and I saw two over the last two weeks so I am going to place these out again and let them do their magic! Great product. Worth it for the price.

Where to Buy Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait

$10.42 at Amazon

Shop on Walmart

$10.48 at Lowe's

We Tried It

Hot Shot Liquid Roch Bait

These roach bait traps are designed for indoor and outdoor use, and they quickly attract and kill roaches and their eggs.

$10.42 at Amazon

Shop on Walmart

$10.48 at Lowe's

No one wantsto live with roaches. For less than $15 for a 6-pack of bait, you can get your home back.

Win the war on roaches with Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait, available at Walmart, Lowes and Amazon.

It’s the best weapon in your arsenal to kill roaches fast.

How We Found the Best Roach Bait

Roaches are known to be difficult to remove from your home once an infestation occurs. We researched and reviewed a wide array of products in search of the most effective ones and delivered results quickly. We considered affordability and efficacy length and then narrowed our selection based on customer reviews and ease of use. Ultimately, we found that Hot Shot Liquid Roach Traps are among the fastest-working, killing roaches and the eggs they carry. The bait traps were easy to set up, and the formula kills roaches large and small.

What to Look For When Buying Roach Bait

Roach killers come in various forms, including sprays, powders, liquids, and gel bait stations, and each has a different application process. Some roach killers are designed for indoor use, while others are meant to be used outside, and it’s important to make sure you choose a product suitable for the area in which you intend to use it.

While sprays, powders, and liquids can be effective, gel baits are particularly useful in handling roach infestations. Gel bait stations contain food infused with insecticide that attracts roaches, and once they eat the bait they spread it to the rest of the roach population through contact. Sprays and powders are effective for only a day or two, but bait stations can last for several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the infestation. Look for gel baits that successfully kill not only roaches but their eggs as well.

If you have pets or small children it is important to be mindful that many roach baits are not pet and child-safe. Carefully review product label information to ensure you use roach bait safely. Consider keeping your pets and children away from areas containing bait stations while they are in use.

For serious infestations, contacting a professional exterminator or pest control specialist may be beneficial.

Why You Should Trust Us

Sheri Kaz, the author of this piece, is an experienced product tester who has contributed reviews to publications including Family Handyman, Reader’s Digest, and Taste of Home. An interior designer, she is well-versed in creating beautiful and functional indoor and outdoor spaces and is passionate about finding and assessing her favorite products. In 2010, she started a community garden, which allowed her to explore her passion for permaculture.

FAQ

Where do you put Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait?

To use Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait, first locate the tab on the side of the bait station and remove it to break the seal. Then, place the bait stations in areas where you have seen roaches or suspect they may be hiding. Common places for roaches to hide include cabinets, beneath refrigerators and sinks, and in closets. To experience the best results, place multiple bait stations in the kitchen, at least one in the bathroom. Larger infestations may call for more bait stations.

How long does it take for liquid roach bait to work?

After placing your liquid roach bait stations in areas around your home it can take at minimum a day or two for them to begin working. Each bait trap contains poison, which roaches must gather, eat and return to their colony. Once roaches consume the poison it takes approximately 24 hours for the roaches to die. Within roughly seven days you should begin to see control of the roach population.

How long does Hot Shot liquid roach bait last?

How long Hot Shot liquid roach bait lasts depends on the severity of an infestation. Check the bait stations once each month to see if any bait is left inside. If bait is present, replace the bait stations every three months. If the bait stations are empty, replace them as soon as possible.

The post Hot Shot Liquid Roach Bait is Under $15 and Keeps Your Home Roach Free appeared first on Family Handyman.

Oregano Oil

Naturally derived herbal-based essential oils are a well-known repellent in the cockroach world. They emit strong, pungent odors that overpower these bugs. They’re not only effective at driving cockroaches back, but generally safe to use around food and food prep surfaces.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) evaluated five popular oil compounds eucalyptus, mint, yarrow, oregano and rosemary and found oregano oil the most effective and longest-lasting. Its strong, spicy, sharp odor is shown to dispel cockroaches.

Shop Now

The post What Smells Repel Cockroaches? appeared first on Family Handyman.

These large insects populated a nearby creek my friends and I frequented. While we never tried to catch one, we never worried if one got too close. That was a mistake, because these insects can bite humans between their toes, and bite hard. Technically, it isn’t actually a bite but an injection of venom but who’s going to worry about how it happened when the pain starts?

Water bugs belong to the family Belostomatidae, which includes some 150 species. For bugs, they’re big. Their oval-shaped bodies resemble American cockroaches, with similar coloring. Luckily, cockroaches and water bugs are easy to tell apart.

Habitat is one major difference. Water bugs are aquatic, as the name suggests, while most cockroaches avoid water. And while cockroaches forage for food in basements and pantries, water bugs are predators they eat fish!

Water Bugs vs. Cockroaches: What Do They Look Like?

Cockroaches and water bugs both have oval bodies and six legs, but water bugs are much larger. Cockroaches are typically about an inch long (some exotic species are larger), while water bugs can be two to four inches long with wider bodies. Both tend to be brown or black. Cockroaches’ coloring often includes tinges of red or tan, while water bugs tend more toward gray.

The most noticeable difference? Water bugs have no antennae. Their front legs may look like antennae, but they actually use them to catch prey. Cockroaches have compound eyes partially hidden by the head and thorax; water bug eyes look pretty normal.

Oriental cockroaches (Blatta orientalis) are the ones most likely to be mistaken for water bugs because they’re dark and live near water; sometimes they’re called water roaches. But unlike water bugs, Oriental cockroaches lack wings and can’t fly a dead giveaway. Cockroaches make noise to communicate.

Water Bugs vs. Cockroaches: Where Do They Live?

Water bugs prefer ponds, marshes and slow-moving streams throughout North America. They can stay underwater for long periods because a tube on the abdomen extends above the surface, allowing them to breathe.

They’ll often float an inch or two below the surface, perfectly positioned for an unsuspecting wader to step on one and receive a painful bite. Hence, the nickname “toe-biters.” The venom isn’t deadly to humans, but the bites are painful.

All but the Oriental cockroach are terrestrial. They prefer dark, moist places to make nests and breed.

In the house, you may find cockroaches in the basement, under shelves, inside cabinets or in some other dark, damp place. Outdoors, they tend to nest under logs or inside woodpiles. They’re also present throughout North America, hibernating or seeking warmth inside buildings when it’s cold.

Water Bugs vs. Cockroaches: Behavior

Water bugs are also known as “electric light bugs.” When they fly from one body of water to another, they’re attracted by bright lights. If you hear a large insect buzzing around your porch light at night, there’s a good chance it’s a water bug.

When not buzzing around lights, they’re usually sitting motionless near the shore of a body of water or just under the surface, waiting to pounce. A water bug can feign death when approached by a larger predator and ooze an odorous liquid from its anus as a defense mechanism.

Cockroaches are highly social, unlike water bugs, which are solitary insects. If you see one roach, others are probably nearby. Cockroaches are most active at night, from a few hours before sunset to dawn, and they tend to congregate. If a space is too small, a colony will split and seek multiple nesting sites.

Water Bugs vs. Cockroaches: How To Get Rid of Them

Cockroaches like sweet stuff, so mixing sugar or honey with boric acid is one common way to poison them. Orange oil, insecticide spray and diatomaceous earth can also be used. But if it’s a large infestation, it’s usually best to call an exterminator.

When you see a water bug, it’s probably alone. If you see more than one, you’re probably looking at Oriental or American cockroaches, not water bugs. If you can catch a water bug in your home and release it outside, it will fly away, and you’ll probably never see it again. Just don’t handle it barehanded.

The post Water Bugs vs. Cockroaches: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Family Handyman.

If they’re around your home long enough, chances you’ll start to hear them as they crawl around and interact with each other. It pays to be alert and vigilant. Don’t wait for the infestation to get so bad you’re hearing them regularly. It’s more likely you’ll notice other signs first, and you can fix the issue long before you start hearing them.

What Sounds Do Cockroaches Make?

You might be familiar with the Madagascar Hissing Cockroach, a species famous for its, well, hissing. But several other species of roaches make different sounds. Other common noises include clicking and chirping.

Why Do Cockroaches Make Noise?

Like most animals, roaches do it to communicate. Their chirps and clicks are mating calls, warnings to rivals or attempts to ward off predators. If the infestation is big enough, you may hear them communicating with each other and sizing rivals up.

Can You Hear Cockroaches at Night?

Roaches are nocturnal, so if your problem is bad enough, you may hear them at night as they run into each other looking for food or mates.

Do All Species Make the Same Noise?

No. Most roaches primarily chirp and click. Trying to identify your cockroach species by sound will likely be an exercise in futility. It’s safe to assume that if you’re hearing roaches, it’s time to take some drastic action.

What to Do If You Hear Cockroaches

If you hear them, there’s a good chance you’ve got an infestation. Make note of when the sounds began and where you hear them. Look for evidence of cockroaches, like feces resembling coffee grounds, a strong oily or musty smell, or the telltale sign dead ones. Then start setting traps.

If the problem seems to be growing or feels too large to tackle on your own, it’s time to call an exterminator.

The post Do Cockroaches Make Noise? appeared first on Family Handyman.

They’re incredibly strong, supporting 900 times their body weight. They can stay underwater for up to 40 minutes, survive temperatures down to 32 degrees and live for a week without a head. That’s right … without a head! They run at three miles mph (really fast for their size) and can squeeze through extremely tight spaces.

Fascinating as these qualities are, they make cockroaches extremely difficult to control. And because these oily-to-the-touch pests carry bacteria that cause diseases like dysentery, cholera and typhoid fever, they need to be controlled.

Compared to other insects, cockroaches are giants. That makes an infestation hard to overlook, especially when roaches are scurrying around inside your pantry or across the floor.

Because cockroaches have been around so long, they have likely invaded every type of human shelter imaginable. The best strategy for keeping them away hasn’t changed much through the ages: Deny them food and water by keeping your house clean. For people living in modern multi-story houses, exclusion techniques and additional control methods are typically also necessary.

Many commercial products are available for cockroach control, and you can make your own from simple household ingredients. But cockroaches are smart and adept at evasion, so sometimes calling in the pros is your best strategy.

What Are Cockroaches?

It’s rare to find someone who has never seen a cockroach. If you’ve been that lucky, they’re six-legged insects from one-half to two inches long. (The largest recorded was six inches.) Their flat, oval-shaped bodies feature two long antennae. Many have wings, and some can fly.

Planet Earth hosts some 3,500 to 4,000 species of cockroaches, but only 30 of them are considered pests. If you live in North America and have an infestation, it’s probably one of these:

• American cockroach (Periplaneta americana): Shiny reddish brown, about 1-1/2- to two inches long, this species has wings longer than its body and loves fermented foods. It’s the one most likely to be in your pantry.
• Brown-banded cockroach (Supella longipalpa): Light to medium brown and about 1/2-in., this species has brown bands on its wings. It prefers warm climates and will live inside buildings.
• German cockroach (Blattella germanica): The most common species in the U.S., it’s light brown to tan and about 1/2-in. long. It has wings but rarely flies.
• Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis): Dark brown to black, this species grows to about one inch long. It likes things cool, so it’s most often found in basements.
• Smokybrown cockroach (Periplaneta fuliginosa): Ranging from 1 to 1-1/2 inches long, this shiny brown species prefers to live outdoors. If a cockroach buzzes around your head at night, it’s probably this one.
• Australian cockroach (Periplaneta australasiae): About 1-1/4- to 1-1/2-in. long with wings, this species loves water. It tends to inhabit drains and open sewers.

What Attracts Cockroaches to Your Home?

Food, water and warmth. You could have an infestation even if you clean meticulously, because they sometimes find what they need in dark corners where you rarely go.

Here are some specific things that attract them:

• Dirty dishes in the sink;
• Overfilled trash cans;
• Plumbing leaks (water and sewer).
• Crumbs on shelves, countertops or the floor;
• High humidity and condensation in the kitchen, laundry room or bathroom.

Sometimes cockroaches enter a house on their own, but sometimes they hitch a ride on parcels and boxes. People have found German cockroaches hiding in cases of soda they just purchased!

Signs of a Cockroach Infestation

Of course, the sight of a cockroach scurrying across the floor or running for cover when you open a drawer is a pretty good sign of an infestation. But cockroaches are adept at hiding, so there’s a good chance you won’t spot any.

Here are some other signs you have a cockroach problem:

• Droppings: These can look like pepper or grains of sand. You might see them in sink cabinets or other dark, moist places.
• Odors: Some species emit musty, oily or even sweet odors. The bigger the population, the stronger the odor.
• Shed skin: Cockroaches shed five to eight times as they grow into adults.
• Tracks: In moist areas, cockroaches leave smear marks on horizontal surfaces.
• Egg capsules: Female cockroaches lay capsules that contain up to 40 individual eggs. Each capsule is about half the diameter of a penny and may be brown or black, depending on the species.

How To Get Rid of Cockroaches

Once you’ve got a cockroach infestation, here are your options for treating them: Baiting, trapping, applying chemicals or deploying deterrents to make them go away.

Baiting is one of the most popular and effective control methods. You can buy commercial bait or make your own. Mix flour and sugar with about 5% boric acid, add a little water, then roll the mixture into balls placed near areas of activity.

Sticky traps are also effective. But if you have a large infestation, they’re best used to identify areas of activity so you can place bait there.

Pros and cons of DIY extermination

DIY cockroach extermination saves money (about $250 to $350 on average) and gives you control over which chemicals are used in your home. The downside is, you may only kill the cockroaches you see, and fail to address the larger colony hiding in the walls.

Doing it yourself is more convenient, though, because you don’t have to coordinate schedules with anyone.

Pros and cons of professional extermination

Of course, hiring an exterminator costs more, but it usually comes with a guarantee the problem will be solved. Professional exterminators know more about cockroach habits than homeowners, and they are more likely to eradicate an infestation even a large one the first time around.

How To Prevent Cockroaches From Coming Back

A clean, dry house, together with sealing all openings cockroaches can squeeze through, is the best way to keep them away. Dusting areas of activity with diatomaceous earth will prevent them from congregating because DE lacerates their legs and exoskeletons.

You can also spray areas where you’ve seen them with essential oils they don’t like, like peppermint, tea tree, cedar and cypress.

If you’ve seen them emerging from the baseboards, spray boric acid behind the wall. It’s a poison that can kill them as they groom themselves. Boric acid is slightly toxic, so don’t leave it anywhere pets or children can come in contact with it.

And be warned: Dead cockroaches you can’t reach with a vacuum will give off a strong, musty odor as their decomposing bodies release oleic acid.

The post Homeowner’s Guide to Cockroach Pest Control appeared first on Family Handyman.

Best Spray Roach Killer

Raid Ant & Roach Killer 26

Raid Ant & Roach Killer 26 eliminates cockroaches the minute they touch sprayed surfaces, for up to four weeks. Plus, the fragrance-free spray is a game changer, especially for those living in tight spaces.

Shop on Walmart

The post What’s the Best Roach Killer for an Apartment? We Tested 6 of the Strongest Sprays appeared first on Family Handyman.

One thing was sure: I needed an eco-friendly mosquito repellent for the yard that wouldnt harm me, my pets or the pollinators. Bees and butterflies are important to me, but the bugs that really bugged me simply had to go.

To protect myself, I wore long sleeves, jeans, hats, and rubber boots up to my knees. As the summer temperatures rose, I knew this wasnt sustainable, and I needed to find a solution to my bug problem. This is where the Wonderside Flea and Tick Spray comes into the picture.

What is Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray?

Wondercide Spray kills and repels ants, fleas, ticks and mosquitos at every lifecycle stage. This yard spray also takes care of Japanese beetles, crickets and gnats without using harmful chemicals.

When you’re ready to use the eco-friendly Wondercide Spray, simply attach the nozzle to your garden hose. You’ll quickly cover 5000 square feet without having to wait for a re-entry period. Its safe and non-toxic to wildlife, humans, pets, bees, and butterflies.

I love that a few women in Texas were on a mission to find a pet-safe alternative to the devastating side effects of pesticide exposure. They were invited to pitch their product on Shark Tank and now its available to us!

Chewy

Shop on Chewy

$44.99 at Amazon

$26.99 at PetSmart

I Tried It

Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray

Safe and non-toxic, this popular spray kills the pesky bugs in your yardonce and for all!

Shop on Chewy

$44.99 at Amazon

$26.99 at PetSmart

Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Product Features

Wondercide Spray is a safe and natural product that wont harm the environment, pets or people. Its so safe that you can spray and play without any waiting time.

Wondercide also makes indoor pest control spray and personal insect repellent in four different scents; cedarwood, lemongrass, rosemary and my favorite, peppermint. Plus, the brand has tested their products for efficacy and they are on-par with conventional insect repellents.

The product is safe to use around lakes, ponds and creeks, but tuck your chickens in while you spray to protect their sensitive respiratory systems.

How We Tested It

The first time I ordered Wondercide Yard Spray, I also ordered sample sizes of the people and pet insect repellent as well as a bar of dog shampoo.

As soon as the products arrived, I was chomping at the bit to try them out. Following the directions, I sprayed my entire lawn and the side of my house, including the window wells where spiders like to spin their webs. Per the instructions, I sprayed again a few days later.

Good-bye tall boots and long pants and hello flip-flops and shorts! With a healthy coating of Wondercide Spray on my lawn, I could finally enjoy summer pest-free.

The real test, however, was at my lake cottage where the mosquitos constantly swarm. I was certain they were breeding in a massive colony under my shady deck. After spraying the Wondercide Spray, we were able to enjoy dinner on the deck without being bitten. Again, we repeated the process a few days later to take care of any stragglers, and once every month thereafter. We were impressed with the long-term results, and will continue to use the product to keep pests at bay.

The sprayer covers a wide area, so treating your yard is fast and easy. Since it is recommended to avoid spraying while pollinators are active, I usually steer clear of the gardens and flower beds. Even though Wondercide is food-grade, I avoid the vegetable garden as a precaution.

For best results, be sure to use the product as directed, starting with two applications a few days apart. Avoid treating the area before rain, as this is a water soluble biodegradable product. Here’s what you should do if your pet has fleas.

Pros

• Natural ingredients
• Repels and kills mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, gnats, chiggers, fruit flies and Japanese beetles
• Environmentally friendly
• Safe for pets, humans and pollinators
• Ready-to-use spray applicator attaches to a hose
• Quick and easy to use
• Fast results
• Immediately safe to walk on
• Smells great
• Made in the USA

Cons

• Several applications are needed

FAQ

How do I get rid of mosquitoes in my yard without harming pets?

To get rid of pests without harming pets, avoid chemical formulas with toxic ingredients. Using a natural product like Wondercide is the best option. If you’re unsure if a product is okay to use around pets, please consult with your veterinarian before using it.

Is there a lawn spray that is safe for bees and butterflies?

Yes, there is a lawn spray that is safe for bees and butterflies. The Wondercide Flea and Tick Spray does not harm birds, bees or butterflies. However, caution should be taken to avoid spraying while pollinators are active.

Can I spray my own yard for ticks?

Yes, you can spray your own yard for ticks. It is a cost-effective alternative to using a commercial pest control company. Most commercial pest control companies charge hundreds of dollars to treat your property. These companies are licensed to use toxic chemicals, effectively killing mosquitoes and ticks.

However, these chemicals may pose a hazard to pollinators and pets. If you decide to spray your yard yourself, you can pick a spray that meets your needs without breaking the bank or harming animals.

What Amazon Reviewers Had to Say

Jessica Seely reviewed Wondercide on Amazon saying, I live in FL and bought this right before hurricane Ian to try to help with bugs because as I said…Florida. But THANKFULLY I waited till after the storm because we and everyone around has standing water in their yard. ABSOLUTE breeding ground for bugs. Felt very plague-ish, So yes I used double the amount needed but IT WORKS, maybe I didn’t need to go hog crazy but I am so happy with it, even having it on repeat order.

Works great on mosquitoes,” says SP, a verified Amazon customer. We have a 1500 sq ft backyard with a swamp behind the yard. We get tons of black flies and mosquitoes after the sun goes behind the woods. We didn’t want to use any dangerous chemicals as we have a 7-yr old often playing in the yard. Wondericide worked amazingly. Sprayed only on the plants just beyond our yard and that itself was sufficient. For the first time in 4 years since we have been here, we were outside sitting on the garden bench after sunset.

Michelle gave the Wondercide spray five stars saying, This is the best product I have ever bought. I was skeptical about trying this but I’m so very happy that I did. I have 3 dogs and 1 cat and none of them have had a single flea or tick. It’s so much safer and cheaper than going to the vet for medicine for the fleas and ticks. I will definitely be buying this product again guaranteed

Product Comparison Mosquito Repellent for Yard

You can find different types of pest repellents like sprays, candles, plants and ultrasonic devices that may help get rid of insects. However, a spray is the best option to treat the entire yard, especially if you have a lot of ground to cover.

Concerned about being eco-friendly? Wondercide encourages reusing the sturdy plastic spray bottle that the repellent comes in. Admittedly, I accumulated five empty bottles before I bought the concentrate and refilled the sprayers. I decided to bite the bullet and purchased the big 128-ounce concentrate, which lasted me through the summer and beyond.

To get started, consider buying the Refill Starter Kit bundle with the ready-to-use reusable applicator and the 16-ounce concentrate. This will give you three treatments and cover up to 5000 square feet.

Want to save money? Shop for concentrates and bundles, or take advantage of the Chewy and Wondercide auto-ship plans.

Final Verdict

The Wondercide Spray isn’t just a mosquito repellent for your yardit protects the entire family (including pets).

True confession: I am a Wondercide junkie. I keep a stash of my beloved spray tucked away in my basement (if you couldn’t tell by the many empty bottles in the cover image). With the help of this spray, I havent seen a spider in my house in a while, and Im not afraid to show skin in the backyard. Plus, my gardens are buzzing with bees and butterflies, and the organic vegetables and flowers are thriving. You don’t have to compromise to get proper protection for your yard.

Where to Buy the Wondercide Flea and Tick Spray

Chewy

Shop on Chewy

$44.99 at Amazon

$26.99 at PetSmart

I Tried It

Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray

This yard-control spray might've been seen on Shark Tank, but it's not just television magic! Family Handyman found this product does an excellent job at killing pest and bugs at every phase.

Shop on Chewy

$44.99 at Amazon

$26.99 at PetSmart

I highly recommend Wondercide Flea and Tick Spray to eradicate pesky bugs in your yard. Test my favorite Wondercide product for yourself by purchasing it at retailers like Chewy, Amazon and PetSmart.

The post Wondercide Flea and Tick Review: Is it the Best Tick Spray for Your Yard? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Cockroaches are fast, they eat anything, they carry diseases and they’re just plain gross. They’re so ingrained in our collective nightmares that they’re the baddies of more than a few horror movies.

So it’s no wonder social media is rife with tricks and tips to get rid of them. This latest anti-roach TikTok hack claims that after spraying lavender water in her client’s home, roaches hit the road and were scarce for a week.

@kikidavis

#nomoreroaches #noinsecticides #noinsectsinmyhome #lavenderroachkilla #lavenderroachkiller #lavenderflowers #nobedbugshere #insectfreezone

original sound – Kiki Davis

We asked an entomologist if this hack was sound. Is lavender water really a cheap, natural alternative to harsh chemical insecticides?

How it Works

The recipe is simple: Two tablespoons of lavender flower and four to six cups of water, simmered for four to six hours. Alternatively, let the lavender steep without heat for two days. Strain the lavender out of the mixture, let it cool and put the lavender water into a spray bottle.

According to the hack, just spray this where you see roaches and it should repel the nasty bugs from your home.

From the Expert

But will this hack work? Not according to Scott Green, a board-certified entomologist (BCE) with Ehrlich Pest Control.

“As an essential oil (EO), lavender can repel some small insects like flies and fleas,” says Green. It’s especially effective, he says, when combined with other EOs like spearmint and wintermint.

One problem: EOs don’t have a ton of residual efficacy. That means they must be reapplied frequently, and roaches don’t carry them back to their pals in your walls. For roach control, that’s a problem.

What Is An Essential Oil?

Essential oils are chemical compounds that make lavender smell like lavender and mint smell like mint. They are the “essence” of the plant. “Bugs come up, smell it and want no part of it,” says Green.

Essential oils are bug paralytics, affecting certain neurotransmitters that control movement and communication between tissues. They can be used in concentrated form or as a spray. Learn what smells repel cockroaches so you can keep them from darkening your door.

Lavender Water vs. Lavender Oil

If essential oil sprays are effective against some bugs, why wouldn’t this hack work? What’s the difference between lavender water and lavender essential oil?

Essential oils must be extracted from a plant via steam distillation, cold-pressing, solvent extraction or other specific means. Essential oils are not really oils in the traditional sense. They’re volatile chemical compounds, meaning they evaporate easily under normal temperature and pressure.

Those vaporized compounds must be captured and condensed to be used effectively. Think of a whiskey still. You wouldn’t get any booze in the bottle if you let the alcohol molecules escape with the steam.

True lavender water, or hydrosol, is the solution left over after extracting essential oils. Lavender water has a ton of great uses, from cooking to relaxing. But the EOs contain repellant qualities, so lavender water is just not going to be the best solution for roaches.

And then there’s this: “Lavender isn’t one of the oils that truly eliminates anything,” Green says. Well, shoot.

What To Do About Roaches

“The best way to control cockroaches is not to allow them into your house,” Green says. Here’s how:

• Move woodpiles and other cockroach hiding places away from your house.
• Clean up pet waste!
• Pick up rotting fruit and vegetables that fall from trees or garden plants.
• Don’t leave food or water outside. If you feed your pet on the patio, pick up the dish when they’re finished.
• Seal up cracks and crevices in your home’s exterior.

If you do find roaches, an integrated approach is best. Sanitation, mechanical repair, cleaning and changing personal habits are always the first thing to try:

• Vacuum the bug up, if possible.
• Clean and sanitize the area daily.
• Trap roaches on a glue trap and have them identified by an expert. This knowledge can help determine the best way to eliminate them.
• Hire a pest control expert to take care of infestations.

While essential oils show promise for some bugs, cockroaches are nothing to mess around with. Unfortunately, there’s just no evidence that homemade lavender water is going to cut it.

The post Can This Lavender Water TikTok Hack Really Get Rid of Cockroaches? appeared first on Family Handyman.

In a truly grotesque image, roaches can even survive without a head for a week. That means your resolve has to be legendary, too. Here’s what the pros want you to know about preventing and getting rid of cockroaches.

Cockroaches Spread a LOT of Disease

“Cockroaches are definitely one of the most common and dangerous pests on our list,” said Scot Hodges, a certified entomologist and vice president of professional development and technical services at Arrow Exterminators. “They have the potential to spread 33 different kinds of bacteria, six parasitic worms and at least seven other kinds of human pathogens.”

Those pathogens include e. coli, salmonella and more. And their saliva, droppings and decomposing bodies contain allergen proteins known to trigger allergies and increase the severity of asthma symptoms, especially in children.

Cockroaches Multiply Quickly and Are Active Year-Round

Nancy DeWitt, owner of Patriot Pest & Termite Control,says the most common types of cockroaches in the U.S. American and German cockroaches are nocturnal pests active all year long. “A female American cockroach can lay up to 150 offspring in a year, so imagine how fast they can multiply if you have many roaches in your home,” she says.

Roaches Can Live in Clean Spaces, Too

It’s common to assume roaches thrive in dirty environments. But even if you keep a clean house, roaches can find a way inside. “The German cockroach is a notorious hitchhiker and can be introduced into a structure in many ways,” Hodges says.

Kids can bring them home from school, daycare and dorms. They can be brought in from work, or in food (specifically produce) from the grocery store. Some can enter a structure from outdoors, or through cracks, wall spaces and plumbing openings.

Still, DeWitt says, the best defense is a super-clean house, denying them a place to eat or drink. Clean your home. Dispose of waste properly. Make sure the lids of your trash cans fit tightly. Avoid leaving out dirty dishes. And always keep kitchen counters clean, removing all drippings and crumbs.

Roaches Love Moisture

Roaches love damp environments, so take all necessary steps to remove dampness or moisture from your home. DeWitt says to check plumbing to ensure nothing is leaking, including under sinks and around drains and toilets. Take extra care to keep bathrooms clean and dry.

Roaches Love Landscaping

Overgrown and unkempt yards and well-maintained plush landscaping are attractive environments for roaches, says Hodges. Ivy, juniper and other ground cover is a preferred habitat. Keeping vegetation away from the structure and avoiding excessive mulch can help.

And be careful around porches or front doors. “Keeping a lot of plants and flowers on the porch can create a sustainable ecosystem for insects and pests, especially if overwatering occurs,” Hodges says. “Pots and planters can become a harbor for roaches and other pests.”

Boric Acid Is a Home Remedy

Boric acid can be a first-stop home remedy for pest control, says DeWitt. “Mix equal parts of boric acid with flour and sugar, then add enough water to make a dough,” she says. “Place some of the dough near the favorite areas of your cockroaches. They will die once they feed on the dough.”

Aside from water, sugar and flour, you can also combine the boric acid powder with peanut butter, maple syrup or condensed milk to attract roaches. But don’t use this method if you have pets, DeWitt says the acid is dangerous for them.

Extermination Processes May Vary

There are 55 species of roaches in the U.S., but five main types appear in homes. Hodges says extermination and treatment of roach infestations depend on the species, so get a thorough inspection and proper identification before moving forward. Pros may use trapping and chemicals to control or eliminate roach populations.

“Roaches are difficult to eliminate, since they love to stay in places where they are not seen,” DeWitt says. “It makes it difficult to cover all the areas they have infested or places they are hidden. There are chances of missing a spot or putting baits in the wrong location.

“To help completely get rid of roaches and other pests, a pest control specialist is a way to go. They can do a thorough inspection, provide a safe and effective plan and solution and teach you the right ways to keep them away.”

The post 7 Things Your Cockroach Exterminator Wants You To Know appeared first on Family Handyman.

Signs of a cockroach infestation

Cockroaches are a nocturnal insect, preferring dark and moist locations to hide, eat and breed. In the home they’re commonly found behind or under large appliances such as stoves and refrigerators, or near sinks and drains. Because cockroaches can make themselves skinny, they can fit into tight spots. If you see one in your home during the day, there is a good chance you will find more.

Here are some signs that your home or business has an infestation problem:

Cockroach Droppings

Besides seeing a cockroach outright, the most conclusive evidence of cockroach presence is their feces. Cockroaches constantly feed on a variety of foods and defecate often. The droppings will be small and black, often resembling coffee grounds or ground pepper. The more visual evidence of their droppings, the better the indicator of how many cockroaches are present.

Cockroach Smell

Cockroaches can produce a strong and disturbing odor. The larger the infestation and the longer they are present, the greater the smell. Similar to their favorite environments, the smell of cockroaches is musty, oily or mildewy. While just one roach can produce this smell, a group of cockroaches will make it that much more noticeable and raise signs an infestation is present. Learnwhat smells repel cockroaches so you can keep them away from your door.

Cockroach Eggs

Female cockroaches lay their eggs in a casing called an oothecae. Since cockroaches lay dozens of eggs, finding this casing is a strong indication of an infestation. Locations such as bookcases, major appliances and other hidden and wet spots in the house are common places to find these casings.

Cockroach Nests

Seeing a cockroach in the home is a solid indicator of an infestation. A combination of droppings, eggs and large numbers of cockroaches mean a nest is near and infestation occurring. Look for these signs under refrigerators and sinks, in old book cases and cabinets, and near pipes or electrical wiring.

Where to check for infestations

Cockroaches prefer a warm, dark and moist environment. A good shelter with a constant food source often brings cockroaches together. When an infestation occurs, cockroaches can reproduce quickly and add to their numbers, making for an unpleasant guest. If you notice signs that cockroaches are present, inspect these locations:

• Kitchen: Check under large appliances like stoves and refrigerators. Make sure dirty dishes don’t build up in the sink. Check underneath for leaks. Search cupboards and cabinets where food is stored.
• Bathroom: Pipes, drains, bathtubs and showers all provide the moist environment cockroaches desire. Ensure that leaks are fixed and piles of wet towels removed.
• Laundry Room: Roaches look to hide under washers and dryers, in a stack of clothes or under a pile of towels, so check the laundry room for creepy crawlers.
• Basement: Cockroaches can squeeze through in cracks in the foundation, holes in the wall, and anywhere leaky pipes and large appliances are present. The wet and protective atmosphere of the basement is a likely site of a cockroach infestation.

What to do with an infestation

When cockroaches have invaded your home or business, it’s time to take action. Act quickly and take the proper steps to get rid of cockroaches forever. Here’s how to deal with an infestation:

1. Identify the infestation location: Follow the signs left by the cockroaches, check the common locations where cockroaches are found, and determine their resting place.
2. Prevent infestation from growing: Cockroaches enter the house through cracks and holes in the foundation, garbage from the garage, and pipes into the home. Caulk and seal any foundational issues and make sure there aren’t any broken or leaky pipes.
3. Baits, Traps and Pesticides: Gels, traps and toxic pesticides such as boric acid are all potential solutions to begin eliminating the cockroach population in your home or business.
4. Exterminators: For a more conclusive and strategic approach to dealing with cockroaches, hire an exterminator who can professionally evaluate the infestation and provide solutions.

Cockroach Resources

For more information about cockroaches and what it means when you find this pest in your home or business, check out these pest control articles.

• Cockroach Guide
• Types of Cockroaches
• How to Get Rid of Cockroaches
• Ways to Kill Cockroaches
• How to Prevent Cockroaches
• Cockroach Infestations
• Cockroach Life Cycle
• Cockroach Safety
• Cockroach Facts

Sources

• _{https://extension.umn.edu/insects-infest-homes/cockroaches}
• _{http://npic.orst.edu/pest/roach.html}
• _{https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/files/cockroachcontrolpi.pdf}

The post How to Handle a Cockroach Infestation appeared first on Family Handyman.

What are Brown-Banded Cockroaches

Brown-banded cockroaches (Supella longipalpa) are one of the smaller cockroaches infesting homes, averaging nearly a half-inch long. Found primarily in the Northeast, Midwest and the South, this particular species prefers warm and drier locations because it can survive longer without water.

What do Brown-Banded Cockroaches Look Like

The Brown-Banded cockroach has a light brownish exterior, getting its name from brownish bands running along the back of its wings and abdomen. With an oval body the males stretch out a little further, while the females are short and stout. Six legs and two long antennas make up the rest of the body, giving an overall appearance similar to the German cockroach.

Brown-Banded Cockroach Behaviors

Unlike the lower-dwelling Oriental cockroaches, Brown-Banded cockroaches prefer higher locations such as cabinets and attics. They don’t need water like some other roach species, so expect to find them in drier rooms like the bedroom or living room.

They are nocturnal scavengers, avoiding the light when possible. Omnivores by nature, these pests are opportunity feeders, looking to eat any and everything they can find around the home.

Brown-Banded Cockroach Life Cycle

The average lifespan for a Brown-Banded cockroach is four to ten months; it goes through the typical cockroach life cycle stages of egg, nymph and adulthood. The female can lay 12 to 16 egg capsules containing around 10 to 18 eggs, for an average total of 200 eggs throughout its life.

Signs of Brown-Banded Cockroaches

Brown-Banded cockroaches are nocturnal, coming out at night to feed, find shelter and mate. The signs of their presence:

• Visual
• Droppings
• Eggs

How to Get Rid of Brown-Banded Cockroaches

Steps for getting rid of Brown-Banded cockroaches include cleaning, sealing off holes and cracks in the foundation, and setting out baits and traps to attract and kill them. Look in cabinets, storage containers and other hidden locations for these pests. If traps and other methods fail, contact a professional exterminator to help find and control infestation problems.

Brown-Banded Cockroach Safety

Like many of its companions, the Brown-Banded cockroaches are excellent transmitters of disease and bacteria through their droppings, interactions with food, excreted smells and skin. If discovered in the home, take action to remove these harmful pests.

Cockroach Resources

For more information about cockroaches and what it means when you find this pest in your home or business, check out these pest control articles.

• Types of Cockroaches
• American Cockroach
• German Cockroach
• Oriental Cockroach
• Brown-Banded Cockroach
• Smokybrown Cockroach
• Florida Woods Cockroach
• Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach
• Asian Cockroach
• Australian Cockroach
• Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
• Flying Cockroaches

Sources

• _{https://extension.umn.edu/insects-infest-homes/cockroaches#brown-banded-cockroach-137711}
• _{https://www.epa.gov/managing-pests-schools/cockroaches-and-schools}

The post How to Identify and Get Rid of Brown-Banded Cockroaches appeared first on Family Handyman.

Know Your Roach

More than one kind of cockroach can infest your home, so if you can identify the species, it may affect your control strategy. While most control methods are effective on most common species, it does matter when deciding whether to apply insecticides inside or outside.

To ID your roaches, start with your state extension service’s website or identification clinic, says Gore. “They will likely accept both physical specimens as well as photos. Just make photos are good quality, clear, and show details.”

The post 11 Best Ways to Kill Cockroaches (And What Doesn’t Work) appeared first on Family Handyman.

American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

Also identified as the water bug, the American cockroach is one of the most common pests infesting homes in the United States. Reddish-brown in color, this cockroach is large and fast, making it quite the nuisance for homeowners. Not only do American cockroaches reproduce quickly, they also live longer than most, with an average lifespan of two years.

The post How to Identify Different Types of Cockroaches appeared first on Family Handyman.

What Are Smokybrown Cockroaches?

A close relative to the American cockroach, Smokybrown roaches (Periplaneta fuliginosa) have many similar behavioral and visual characteristics. In the United States, you will find them in warmer climates and southern states such as Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Georgia.

What do Smokybrown Cockroaches Look Like?

Smokybrown cockroaches get their name from their appearance and where they like to hide. They have a distinct mahogany color with a thin and long body. Their wings are noticeable and functional, making them frequent and strong fliers. At night you can find them flying around lights, attracted to the brightness coming out of the dark.

Smokybrown Cockroach Behaviors

Living mainly in southern states, the Smokybrown cockroach prefers warm and humid locations, mainly hanging outdoors in places such as trees, gardens and mulch and leaf piles. Near the home, you can find them in gutters, the attic and crawl spaces.

When searching for food, the Smokybrown cockroach likes a wide array, including feces, other dead insects, plants, sugars and human food. Unlike some cockroach species, these roaches are only able to go a few days without water. Because of that, they cling to wet and moist areas.

Smokybrown Cockroach Life Cycle

The Smokybrown cockroach goes through the three stages of metamorphosis like the majority of cockroaches: egg, nymph and adult. Their average lifespan is six to ten months. Females lay as many as 24 eggs at a time, 16 to 18 times throughout their lifetime.

Signs of Smokybrown Cockroaches

The common signs that Smokybrown cockroaches have found a home indoors include:

• On-sight visual.
• Droppings.
• Egg cases.

Expect to see these cockroaches at night flying near the brighter lights in and around the home. If infested, look for these signs in places such as the attic or the roof.

How to Get Rid of Smokybrown Cockroaches

Even more than their counterparts, it’s important to keep the home clean and dry to clear wet hiding locations for the pest. Some common tips for cleaning include:

• Taking out and sealing trash.
• Fixing leaky pipes and drains.
• Getting rid of old boxes and storage containers.
• Searching and cleaning major appliances.

To kill cockroaches, there are a wide variety of remedies including sprays, baits, traps, pesticides and other natural substances. If those methods prove ineffective, look to your local exterminator to provide a sustainable plan and system to help eliminate the roaches.

Smokybrown Cockroach Safety

Similar to other cockroaches, Smokybrowns transport disease and bacteria and can contaminate food. Too many in one area can also cause issues with allergies and asthma. A buildup of Smokybrown cockroaches shouldn’t be allowed to fester, making quick action a priority for home and business safety.

Cockroach Resources

For more information about cockroaches and what it means when you find this pest in your home or business, check out these pest control articles.

• Types of Cockroaches
• American Cockroach
• German Cockroach
• Oriental Cockroach
• Brown-Banded Cockroach
• Smokybrown Cockroach
• Florida Woods Cockroach
• Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach
• Asian Cockroach
• Australian Cockroach
• Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
• Flying Cockroaches

Sources

• _{http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7467.html}
• _{https://urbanentomology.tamu.edu/cockroaches/smoky_brown/}

The post How to Identify and Get Rid of Smokybrown Cockroaches appeared first on Family Handyman.

What are Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches

Living in the wooded areas of the Midwest and northeastern United States, the Pennsylvania Wood cockroach is a common pest outdoors in the summer months. One of the flying species of cockroaches, this insect thrives in the wet and warm elements of the woods.

What do Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches Look Like

Blending in well to its environment, the Pennsylvania Wood cockroach carries a light to dark brown complexion. Typically an inch long, this roach has six legs and two long antennas. The males have a fully developed set of wings that allows them to fly shorter distances, while the females have undeveloped wings and usually remain grounded.

Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach Behaviors

As the name suggests, this cockroach prefers the outdoors, living in piles of leaves, within trees and tree stumps and around the floor of the woods. They feast on dead and decaying plant life, fruits and starches. While they usually avoid human structures, they are attracted to light. At night they will fly near and towards bright lights, sometimes leading them to explore the home.

Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach Life Cycle

Unlike some of their cousins, this roach does not seek out or reproduce indoors, often creating their nests in hollowed out trees. Females will lay 30 to 40 eggs at a time, with their babies going through a typical cockroach life cycle of metamorphosis.

Signs of Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches

Unlike other types of cockroaches, the Pennsylvania Wood cockroach does little indoors, leaving few signs of its presence. To know if one is in your home, you most likely need to see one at the scene of the crime. Homes made of cedar or log, along with houses out in the woods, are more likely to encounter these roaches than the typical home in the city or suburb.

How to Get Rid of Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches

Since these roaches prefer to stay outdoors and do their living and mating in the woods, many measures to get rid of them are preventative. Keep the house clean, don’t leave out dirty dishes and food, and be sure to seal cracks or holes in the foundation.

Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach Safety

Pennsylvania Wood roaches pose little threat to people. Because they don’t survive for long indoors, typical issues with allergies, asthma, disease and bacteria are not prevalent. If they do penetrate the home, they still can contaminate food lying around. If you take preventative measures to keep them out of the home, they generally will leave you alone. On the rare chance multiple roaches infest the house, reach out to a professional to provide pest control solutions.

Cockroach Resources

For more information about cockroaches and what it means when you find this pest in your home or business, check out these pest control articles.

• Types of Cockroaches
• American Cockroach
• German Cockroach
• Oriental Cockroach
• Smokybrown Cockroach
• Brown-Banded Cockroach
• Florida Woods Cockroach
• Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach
• Asian Cockroach
• Australian Cockroach
• Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
• Flying Cockroaches

Sources

• _{https://extension.psu.edu/pennsylvania-wood-cockroaches}
• _{https://extension.umn.edu/insects-infest-homes/cockroaches#pennsylvania-wood-cockroach-137714}

The post How to Identify and Get Rid of Pennsylvania Wood Cockroaches appeared first on Family Handyman.

What are Asian Cockroaches

Only recently introduced to the United States, the Asian cockroach is a mobile and adaptable species of roach, making the south and southeastern states home. Outdoors, this roach can be found around the house in leaf piles, under mulch and in trees.

What do Asian Cockroaches Look Like

The Asian cockroach and the German cockroach look similar, with slight variation. Asian cockroaches are approximately a half inch long and light brown in color, with two parallel bands on the top of its head. One of the flying cockroaches, the Asian cockroach has a pair of wings and likes to use them, especially when provoked.

Asian Cockroach Behaviors

Like some household pests, the Asian cockroach is an omnivore, feeding on anything and everything it finds plants, flowers, human food, pet food, toothpaste and even waste. Driven by food, these roaches can reproduce quickly and take over a location.

Unlike the German cockroach, Asian cockroaches are strong fliers, so you can find these in high places on top of major appliances, furniture and other fixtures. Attracted to lights, these pests can often be spotted at dusk or early in the night, entering homes where lighting is brightest. Though preferring the outdoors, they will come indoors and take over a structure.

Asian Cockroach Life Cycle

The female Asian cockroach will lay three to four oothecae (egg cases) throughout its life, each one delivering 20 to 40 eggs. Similar to the German cockroach, Asian cockroaches go through the typical cockroach life cycle and live for three to six months.

Signs of Asian Cockroaches

Asian cockroaches are primarily an outdoor pest, infesting the wooded areas around a home. They are commonly found in leaf and wood piles, trees and grassy areas. In the house, you might seem them flying around or hanging out on top of appliances and fixtures.

How to Get Rid of Asian Cockroaches

If you come across Asian cockroaches in the home, pest control might be difficult. They are fast and agile, making killing them at the point of contact difficult. With this roach being a flier, some of the traditional repellents and preventative measures are difficult to implement, since they enter the homes through windows and doorways instead of cracks and crevices that can be sealed.

If sprays and pesticides prove ineffective, contact your local exterminator to evaluate an infestation and provide a systematic approach to getting rid of the cockroaches.

Asian Cockroach Safety

Similar to other pests, the Asian cockroach can transport disease and bacteria into the home, contaminating food and surfaces. As a primarily outdoor cockroach, they also come in contact with animal feces, fungi and parasites that they could bring into the home. They are difficult to contain after penetrating a location, so quick action is needed to eliminate their damage and dangers.

Cockroach Resources

For more information about cockroaches and what it means when you find this pest in your home or business, check out these pest control articles.

• Types of Cockroaches
• American Cockroach
• German Cockroach
• Oriental Cockroach
• Smokybrown Cockroach
• Brown-Banded Cockroach
• Florida Woods Cockroach
• Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach
• Asian Cockroach
• Australian Cockroach
• Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
• Flying Cockroaches

Sources

• _{http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/urban/roaches/asian_cockroach.htm}

The post How to Identify and Get Rid of Asian Cockroaches appeared first on Family Handyman.

What are Oriental Cockroaches

One of the largest of its kind, the Oriental cockroach is a distinguishable species of roach. Often called the “black beetle cockroach,” they are dark brown to nearly all black in coloration, showcasing a smooth and shiny exterior. Slower than most cockroaches, they prefer to be active outdoors and at night, searching for warm, moist and dark locations to find food and shelter.

What do Oriental Cockroaches Look Like

Not quite as big as the American cockroach, this roach averages about one inch in length. Oriental cockroaches differ in appearance from male to female. The males are slightly shorter (one inch) with stubbed wings, while the females are longer and skinnier (1-1/4 inches) but without wings. Both are reddish-brown to nearly all black.

Oriental Cockroach Behaviors

Unlike some of their counterparts, Oriental cockroaches thrive outdoors and in the environment. Similar to other pests such as earwigs, centipedes, and ants, you can find them under piles of leaves, mulch, stone or wood, along with flower beds and debris build-ups.

Though males have wings, they don’t fly. Both genders are omnivores existing on nearly any type of food source, from decaying plants and rotting garbage to leftover crumbs and people food.

Oriental Cockroach Life Cycle

The Oriental cockroach goes through the three stages of metamorphosis: egg, nymph and adult. An adult has a lifespan of one to six months, mating numerous times. They are seasonal in their reproduction, often producing more eggs in the spring and summer.

Signs of Oriental Cockroaches

Here are some signs Oriental cockroaches are inhabiting the home:

• Seeing them outright.
• Egg cases left around the house.
• A wet or musty smell.

How to Get Rid of Oriental Cockroaches

As with most cockroaches, the first step to getting of them is removing their ideal environment. Keep your home clean and sanitized, especially in wet locations such as drains, pipes, bathrooms or basements, along with any spots where food is present.

Oriental cockroaches particularly like to enter the house in or near doorways or through holes and cracks in the foundation. Seal up these unwanted entryways.

If eliminating entryways and water sources doesn’t solve the problem, look to a professional exterminator for advanced solutions.

Oriental Cockroach Safety

Oriental cockroaches can cause additional problems. They transmit bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella, taint food with pathogens, and excrete odors that are problematic for people with allergies and asthma. If an infestation is suspected, take quick action to get rid of and keep the pests out.

Cockroach Resources

For more information about cockroaches and what it means when you find this pest in your home or business, check out these pest control articles.

• Types of Cockroaches
• American Cockroach
• German Cockroach
• Oriental Cockroach
• Smokybrown Cockroach
• Brown-Banded Cockroach
• Florida Woods Cockroach
• Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach
• Asian Cockroach
• Australian Cockroach
• Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
• Flying Cockroaches

Sources

• _{https://extension.umn.edu/insects-infest-homes/cockroaches#oriental-cockroach-137712}
• _{https://www.who.int/water_sanitation_health/resources/vector288to301.pdf}

The post How to Identify and Get Rid of Oriental Cockroaches appeared first on Family Handyman.

What are German Cockroaches

The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is the most common species of cockroach worldwide, taking residence in people’s homes, restaurants, nursing homes and hotels. While initial thoughts assumed this roach is a native to Europe, its close relationship and looks to the Asian cockroach suggests its origins might be of southeast Asia. Quickly reproducing and resilient against pest control methods, the German cockroach is one of the most stubborn and difficult pests to deal with.

What Do German Cockroaches Look Like

Much smaller than the American cockroach, the German cockroach grows to less than an inch long, sporting a light-brownish or tannish coloration. With two black stripes on its back, six legs and a pair of antennas, this roach scurries quickly from to place to place. Although they do have wings, they rarely use them to fly.

German Cockroach Behaviors

Unlike some of their counterparts, German cockroaches prefer living indoors. In warm and tropical areas, they will spend more time outdoors. But with an inability to survive harsh and colder environments, expect to find them near or in human structures to live and reproduce.

Of the different cockroach species, the German cockroach is the truest of scavengers, eating almost anything they can get their metaphorical hands on. This includes things such as soap, booking bindings, glue, toothpaste and pet foods in addition to all foods and crumbs left by people.

German Cockroach Life Cycle

The German cockroach goes through the typical three stages of metamorphosis: egg, nymph and adult. The most troublesome aspect of the German cockroach is their reproductive cycle. The females can produce more than 400 eggs during their lifetime, with their average lifespan only being three to six months.

With such a short lifespan, infestations grow quickly since the German cockroach can go from egg to adult in less than ninety days. With females reproducing often and in large amounts, along with a fast metamorphosis, the German cockroach can cause more problems for people than any other roach.

Signs of German Cockroaches

As German cockroaches are most likely to be found indoors, these signs will help guide whether they have penetrated your establishment.

• Visual: If you see a cockroach flashing around food or water sources, there most likely are more around.
• Droppings: German cockroaches leave small, brownish drops of stool where they eat and live.
• Eggs: Females will carry around the egg cases a few days after birth, thus leaving behind these cases where they frequent.
• Odor: German cockroaches leave a musty smell where populations congregate.

How to Get Rid of German Cockroaches

German cockroaches are commonly found indoors in warm and moist places with a consistent food source. Kitchens, bathrooms and basements are their favorites, hiding out in drains, cabinets and appliances.

Because they thrive in dirty, moist locations, the first step to getting rid of and preventing German cockroaches is good sanitation. There are many ways to kill cockroaches: traps, baits, gels, powders and natural solutions.

With their quick and efficient reproductive cycles, the German cockroach is difficult to control. It only takes a few surviving eggs to replenish an infestation.

If your efforts appear unsuccessful, consult with a professional exterminator to provide a plan and solutions unique to your home or business.

German Cockroach Safety

The dirty habits of the German cockroach make them a particular issue for homes and businesses. Their eating habits can contaminate food. Their droppings and pheromones can cause allergy and asthma problems. And they can leave behind bacteria and pathogens harmful to people. The dangers cockroaches can create demand immediate and deliberate action.

Additional Cockroach Resources

For more information about cockroaches and what it means when you find this pest in your home or business, check out these pest control articles.

• Types of Cockroaches
• American Cockroach
• German Cockroach
• Oriental Cockroach
• Smokybrown Cockroach
• Brown-Banded Cockroach
• Florida Woods Cockroach
• Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach
• Asian Cockroach
• Australian Cockroach
• Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
• Flying Cockroaches

Sources

• _{https://www.epa.gov/managing-pests-schools/cockroaches-and-schools}
• _{https://extension.umn.edu/insects-infest-homes/cockroaches#german-cockroach-137710}

The post How to Identify and Get Rid of German Cockroaches appeared first on Family Handyman.