Best Technique of Cockroach Control Applicable for Sinks and Drains

Dec 18
09:29

2012

Ma. Theresa Galan

Ma. Theresa Galan

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

Cockroaches can survive for long periods with little to no food, as long as they have moisture. Sink drains provide them with drinking water, both in and around the drain. Leaking or dripping faucets increase the amount of moisture available to the roaches, encouraging them to live in and around the drain. Any drain that traps water inside it could be a home for cockroaches.

mediaimage
While cockroaches are capable of fitting through very small holes,Best Technique of Cockroach Control Applicable for Sinks and Drains Articles they can't pass through openings screened with mesh or solid material. When cockroaches are a concern, cover all drains at night to prevent these insects from making their home inside. Keep sinks and drains dry and clean to reduce water sources, and avoid putting food scraps into the drain itself. Fix all leaks and drips as soon as possible to discourage roach infestations.   Cockroaches multiply best in environments that provide plenty of food, water and hiding space. By removing these factors, you can control the roaches. Caulk or otherwise seal all cracks and crevices in your home, and reduce the number of dark, undisturbed locations where these insects can survive. Put all food away in sealed containers. Use cockroach traps to determine whether control methods are working effectively.   Although cockroaches are likely to enter homes through other means, sink drains hold a lot of attraction for them once they are inside. Spaces around sink drains or floor grates provide access for cockroaches, which prefer dark, moist areas like crawlspaces, basements and wall interiors.Drains also feed cockroaches, which are capable of living on a wide range of organic material. Kitchen drains often trap scraps or traces of food debris from dishwashing, while bathroom drains can catch skin cells and grow fungus or mold. Cockroaches often live in sink overflow cavities connected to the drain, as these provide easy access to food and water inside the drain but don't flood regularly. How to Use Boric Acid for Cockroach Control  
  1. Empty the kitchen cabinets and the area under the sink.
  2. Clean the sink, oven and all cabinets, drawers and countertops with water and a mild detergent.
  3. Clean behind and under the refrigerator. Remove and clean the pan that collects the defrost water under the refrigerator.
  4. Fill any holes or crevices in the walls with a foam filler or caulk. Don't use glue products -- roaches eat glue.
  5. Spread the boric acid all over the kitchen cabinets, drawers, countertops and sink. Make sure you apply it under the sink, oven, refrigerator and dishwasher. Be careful not to inhale the boric acid when applying it. For best results, apply the boric acid at night (when the roaches come out) and leave it until morning. If your house is infested with a lot of roaches, a heavy application may be necessary and you may consider staying out of the house for two to three days.
  6. Vacuum up any remaining boric acid and clean all the areas where the powder was applied with a wet rag, the next morning. You should be rid of the roaches.

For more helpful ideas on the control, check out our main page here:

Auckland cockroach control