Cockroaches scuttling across your bathroom floor or darting behind the refrigerator can send shivers down anyone's spine. These unwanted guests are not only unpleasant to look at, but they can also spread bacteria and trigger allergies. If you've found roaches in your bathroom or kitchen, don't worry! We are here to equip you with the knowledge and steps to eliminate these invaders and prevent them from returning.

cockroach in bathroom

Why some cockroaches love kitchens and bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms are prime real estate for roaches because they offer the three things roaches typically seek—food, water, and shelter.

  • Food: Kitchens have readily available food sources like crumbs, grease, and spills. Even a seemingly clean kitchen can offer these persistent pests enough to survive. In bathrooms, cockroaches might feast on hair, soap scum, or toothpaste residue.
  • Water: Leaky pipes, dripping faucets, and condensation from showers provide ample moisture for roaches.
  • Shelter: Cracks in floors and walls, the space behind appliances, and underneath cabinets offer perfect hiding spots for roaches.

By taking steps to eliminate these attractants, you can make your kitchen and bathroom less appealing to roaches and help prevent future infestations.

Know your kitchen and bathroom roaches

If you are seeing signs of cockroaches in your bathroom or kitchen, it helps to know what species they are. Cockroaches are resistant to many common DIY pest control methods, and what works for one species does not always work for another.

german cockroach on sink

German cockroaches are lighter brown with two dark stripes running down the back. These roaches are commonly found in areas that offer a warm, humid environment with plenty of moisture and access to food. If you see baby roaches, especially behind appliances or in dark corners, it's a sign of a German cockroach infestation.

american cockroach outside

American cockroaches are reddish‐brown with a yellow figure‐eight marking on the head shield. These roaches are larger than the German cockroach and are often found in garages or storage areas, but they may travel to the kitchen in search of food.

Steps to help you get rid of roaches

Unfortunately, spotting a roach or two means you're likely dealing with a larger population hiding out of sight. Cockroaches reproduce quickly, so taking action fast is important to prevent the infestation from worsening. Here are the steps you can take to get rid of roaches in your bathroom and kitchen:

  1. Keep your kitchen and bathroom clean: Immediately clean up spills, crumbs, and food debris. Wipe down counters, sinks, range hoods, and other appliances regularly to eliminate any potential food sources for roaches.
  2. Frequently empty recycling bins: Cardboards and newspapers in unemptied recycling bins can become breeding grounds for roaches, so it's critical to empty trash and recycling bins regularly.
  3. Fix leaks: Check and fix any leaky pipes, faucets, drains, or fixtures. Roaches are attracted to moisture, so eliminating any damp areas in your kitchen or bathroom can help deter them.
  4. Seal up cracks and crevices: Roaches can enter your home through small cracks and gaps in walls, floors, and cabinets. Seal up any gaps with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent them from entering.
  5. Use bait stations: Place roach bait stations where you have seen roaches, such as under sinks or behind appliances.
  6. Use sticky traps: Place sticky traps in areas where you have seen roaches to capture them. Sticky traps also make ideal monitoring boards if you think you might have a pest issue.
  7. Call a professional: If you have a severe infestation or cannot eliminate roaches on your own, contact a cockroach control professional for assistance.

If you need help eliminating cockroaches in your bathroom or kitchen, contact Terminix by scheduling a FREE inspection today!