Here’s What REALLY Kills Cockroaches—And What Doesn’t

Looking to get rid of cockroaches lurking in your house? If you can't wait for the exterminator to get to your home, these at-home tricks should significantly help.

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There’s no denying that cockroaches are the absolute worst. They are gross to look at, they can spread a range of diseases, and they can even squish their bodies into half their size and climb into tight spaces. Yeah. Nasty.

Having cockroaches in your home is probably the last thing you want. However, if this is the reality you face, it’s time to start figuring out how to get rid of these suckers.

Although the exterminator is probably the best route when it comes to getting rid of cockroaches, some people are up for trying natural remedies to get rid of these little buggers. A quick search on the Internet shows quite a few ways to get rid of roaches. Some of them make sense, but others seem extremely absurd when getting rid of roaches.

What Kills Cockroaches, Try: Adhesive-based traps

Want to catch the roach without running around your house? Adhesive-based traps work like a charm. Their sticky glue will attract the cockroaches, but will also keep them stuck. This will help with the roaches that are roaming around your house, but unfortunately, this will not help you in locating the roach’s original nest (where you will probably find even more roaches).

Don’t try: Cucumbers

This may come as a bit of a shock, but people have tested using cucumbers as a way to repel roaches away from their home. According to some sources, cucumber peels are supposed to ward off cockroaches because they find the smell repulsive. However, this myth has been busted and is not recommended by usual pest control. So don’t bother.

What kills Cockroaches, Try: Poisonous roach baits

If you want to get rid of the nest, this is the way to go. Having a bait will lure the cockroaches and completely get rid of them.

Don’t try: Citrus liquids or herbs

Another Internet false claim to avoid. Some people have written that citrus water, herbs or even essential oils can stave off cockroaches from your home. This is just another myth busted by pest control experts.

Now, what about those other pesky pests? If you’re dealing with raccoons, mice, or even an onslaught of spiders, here are 11 strategies for do-it-yourself pest control.

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