With rising summer temperatures, a new guest appears in homes: cockroaches. Also known as Blattodea, the term cockroach comes from a blend of Greek roots meaning “cockroach” and “looks like.” Although the family encompasses more than 3,500 species worldwide, only a handful are commonly reported in many Spanish-speaking regions. Warmer, drier conditions can trigger their reproduction and movement, making them a frequent nuisance in households and surrounding areas.
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In the Alicante province, the common species encountered are the German cockroach (Blattella germanica) along with oriental, American, and brown-banded varieties.
To help readers avoid a cockroach problem, a range of homemade solutions and natural approaches is presented here. These methods act as insecticides and aim to curb both adult insects and their eggs.
Tips and tricks to prevent cockroaches at home
Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a substance that can be lethal to cockroaches. However, they are drawn to sweet smells and tastes, so a bait is typically needed to attract them. A practical approach is to mix equal parts baking soda and sugar and apply the mixture to corners and crevices where cockroaches are likely to travel.
How to make homemade cockroach traps?
Many aromatic plants act as natural repellents against cockroaches. Mint and bay leaves, in particular, can deter these pests, while stronger scents such as garlic, onion, or ground pepper may help reduce their presence. Sprinkle these in strategic spots to create a barrier.
While not foolproof, these measures can be useful in gardens or terraces, reducing the chances of cockroaches entering indoor spaces.
Another popular remedy is lemon. The sour scent is disliked by cockroaches, so surfaces, floors, sinks, and showers can be cleaned with a lemon-water solution or a product containing lemon to reduce sightings.
Yet the most effective long-term remedy remains consistent cleaning of the home and minimizing attractants.
Other home products for keeping cockroaches at bay include vinegar. A solution of white vinegar and water sprayed around problem spots can help reduce activity and visibility.
For animal lovers, a somewhat unexpected option is sometimes considered. An indoor cat can help reduce roach activity, as can other small natural predators. Some people even look at lizards or sparrows as unlikely partners in pest control, though this is not a recommended primary solution.
A very affordable remedy involves a paste made from half a glass of chopped onion, half a glass of all-purpose flour, water, a pinch of sugar, and 3–4 teaspoons of boric powder. After forming a paste, small amounts are placed in bottle caps and distributed in rooms where roaches are common. Exercise caution if pets are present, as boric powder can be harmful to animals.
How to avoid problems caused by cockroaches
Knowing home remedies and practical tricks is valuable, especially when avoiding chemical pesticides. Cleanliness helps, but even the tidiest homes may still attract pests if there are gaps or moisture and warmth that invite roaches to settle. They seek places that meet their basic needs and often move into unseen crevices.
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Preventive measures to reduce the risk of cockroach appearances include the following:
- Keep floors clean with a mop, broom, or vacuum, especially after meals in kitchens and dining areas.
- Remove overflowing garbage promptly.
- Leftovers attract these pests; avoid leaving food out that can tempt them to stay indoors.
- Wash dishes promptly and avoid leaving unwashed utensils in the sink.
- Seal gaps and cracks that connect the outside with the interior using putty or cement.
- Periodically inspect behind appliances, which can harbor heat and moisture, offering hiding spots for cockroaches.