What Attracts Cockroaches to Your Home? And How to Keep Them Away

Cockroaches in the home, the thought is enough to send a shiver down your spine, but is there a reason as to what attracts cockroaches? 

The resilient pests are a nuisance and a health hazard, and keeping them away is a priority for any home. 

Here, we look into the common attractants for cockroaches and provide tips on how to prevent them from making your home theirs.

What are the health risks of cockroaches? 

Cockroaches not only look unsightly in the home, but they can pose significant health risks to us too. These include: 

Allergies and asthma: Cockroaches can trigger allergy and asthma attacks, especially in children. Their droppings, saliva and shed skin can cause reactions like sneezing, skin rashes, watery eyes and nasal congestion. 

Transmit diseases: They are carriers of different bacteria, viruses and parasites. By contaminating things like food, work surfaces and even utensils, they can spread things like salmonella, E. coli, and dysentery – a severe form of diarrhoea. 

Skin infections: Coming into direct contact with cockroaches or their droppings can lead to skin infections. These can be worse if they infect cuts or wounds. 

What attracts cockroaches?

Food sources 

Cockroaches are scavengers and will eat almost anything, making food one of the primary attractants. Leftover food, crumbs, and even pet food can lure these pests into your home.

If you leave food in unsealed containers, cockroaches can easily access it. Store food in airtight containers. Leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight provides a buffet for cockroaches. Always clean your dishes promptly. Uncovered bins are another major attraction for cockroaches too. Use bins that have tight-fitting lids and empty them regularly. 

Water and Moisture

Cockroaches need water to survive, and they are particularly attracted to moist environments. Leaking taps and pips give them a constant source of water, so fix them as soon as you notice them. 

Rooms that are damp, such as bathrooms, utility rooms, or kitchens, will attract cockroaches. Ventilate where possible, and use dehumidifiers too. 

Shelter and Warmth

Cockroaches thrive in warm, dark, and sheltered places. They are experts at finding cozy spots to hide and breed. Piles of clutter provide excellent hiding spots, so by regularly decluttering your home, you can reduce cockroaches’ hiding places.

Cockroaches can also squeeze into tiny cracks and crevices. Seal any gaps in walls, floors, and around windows and doors.

Unclean Environments

A clean home is less attractive to cockroaches. Regular cleaning can reduce the likelihood of an infestation. Clean up spills and crumbs immediately—even small amounts of food can attract cockroaches.

Be wary of grease building up in your kitchen, especially behind appliances, as these can be magnets for cockroaches. Deep clean regularly to ensure there is little chance of them coming into contact with grease they’ll enjoy. 

Access Points

Cockroaches can enter your home through various access points. By identifying and sealing these points, you can help keep them out. Gaps around pipes coming in and out of your home are a great way for cockroaches to get in; ensure you seal any gaps with caulk or silicone.

Outdoor Attractants

The outdoor area of your home can be just as appealing for cockroaches. Bright outdoor lights can attract insects, which in turn attract cockroaches. Use warm lighting that is less appealing to pests. 

Piles of leaves, wood, and other debris in your garden can provide shelter for cockroaches. Make sure to keep it clean and tidy.

Prevention tips for keeping cockroaches away 

Preventing cockroaches from entering your home involves a combination of cleanliness, maintenance, and proactive measures.

• Regularly clean your home, paying special attention to the kitchen and bathroom.
• Store food in airtight containers and keep countertops clean.
• Repair any leaks in your home to eliminate water sources for cockroaches.
• Seal cracks and gaps to prevent cockroaches from entering your home.

Natural Repellents

If you prefer to avoid chemical pesticides, there are natural repellents that can help deter cockroaches.

Essential oils: Oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender can repel cockroaches. Mix with water and spray around your home.

Boric acid: This is a natural insecticide. Sprinkle it in areas where cockroaches are likely to travel.

Bay leaves: Placing bay leaves in your kitchen and other areas can repel cockroaches. They dislike the smell and will avoid it.

Professional Pest Control

If you have a severe infestation or prefer professional help, pest control services, like ours, can effectively eliminate cockroaches. We will assess the extent of the infestation and apply appropriate treatments. Get in touch today and we’ll give our best advice on what to do moving forward. 

Understanding what attracts cockroaches to your home is the first step in preventing an infestation. You can keep these unwelcome pests at bay by keeping your home clean, sealing entry points, and using natural repellents or professional services. Remember, the key to a cockroach-free home is being vigilant and taking these proactive measures.