Cockroaches are no less than a disease. They thrive anywhere they can, spread disease and evoke fear in the bravest of hearts. We bet you’d love to know how to get rid of roaches overnight. While getting professional help to get rid of cockroaches is a good option, we also have several home remedies for cockroaches. These methods involve things that are usually available at home. Read on to find out how to get rid of cockroaches with home remedies.

What attracts cockroaches?

Cockroaches thrive in dirty, humid conditions. If these home remedies for cockroaches are to work, make sure that there is no leftover food or spilled water they can thrive in.

#1: Leave no Dirty Dishes in the Sink

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A dirty sink is a breeding ground for cockroaches

One of the most common causes for a cockroach infestation is dirty dishes in the sink. It is always a good idea to wash your dishes immediately after eating. Avoid leaving them in the sink overnight.

#2: Clear Up Your Garbage

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Keeping open garbage bins will attract pests

Garbage and any home remedy for cockroaches you think of will never go hand in hand! If you have open and overflowing garbage cans in your home, there are bound to be some pests. Opt for garbage cans with lids to maintain hygiene. Segregate waste and dispose of them at regular intervals.

#3: Scoop up All the Food Crumbs

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Keep your floors clean

Cockroaches can generally be found near food crumbs and leftovers. No wonder then that the kitchen is their favourite room! Always keep your kitchen clean. Sweep the floor and wipe kitchen counters after cooking.

Home Remedies for Cockroaches That You Can Try

Indians love to use home remedies for roaches. We are always armed with our lakshmanrekhas, acids and any other approved remedy. Building on that then, here is our list that is all about how you get rid of cockroaches with home remedies.

#1: Sprinkle a Pinch of Boric Acid

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Just a sprinkle of this insecticide can kill roaches

Boric acid is believed to be one of the best home remedies for cockroaches. If you’re wondering  how to get rid of cockroaches with boric acid, just dust a little bit of this powder in corners and floors and let it sit. When roaches come in contact with it, they die. However boric acid is not effective when it is wet. A word of caution — this powder is poisonous and should be kept out of reach of children and pets at all times.

#2: Baking Soda Is a Convenient Home Remedy for Cockroaches

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Mix baking soda with sugar to make a killer combination

This method is a classic example of the fish and bait as a solution for  how to get rid of roaches. A concoction of baking soda and sugar is an effective cockroach killer and controls the multiplication of these pests. Sugar acts as a bait to attract cockroaches and the baking soda kills them. You just need to identify their hideouts and sprinkle this mixture in those corners.

#3: Home Remedies for Cockroaches Recommended by Grandma: Neem

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A salt water and peppermint oil spray acts as a natural repellent

Neem has been used as a home remedy for cockroaches and other pests over the years. Neem oil or powder contains potent components that can kill cockroaches. To use it in oil form, mix a small amount of neem oil with water in a spray bottle and spray it in places where you have spotted these pests. However, if you are using neem powder, all you need to do is sprinkle it in cockroach- infested areas at night and repeat the process in the morning.

#4: How to Get Rid of Cockroaches with Peppermint Oil

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Salt water and peppermint oil spray acts as a natural repellent

Essential oils have myriad uses such as aromatherapy, skincare etc. But did you know them as one of the home remedies for cockroaches, too? Peppermint oil is one of the most effective essential oils for keeping cockroaches at bay. Make a mixture of salt water and peppermint oil and spray it on the infested areas at home. However, this is not how to get rid of roaches overnight. You will notice a difference only after continuous application.

#5: Count Bay Leaves in the Effective Home Remedies for Cockroaches List

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Crushing some bay leaves is another answer to how to get rid of roaches

Did you know, raiding your spice cabinet can help you get rid of cockroaches? If you want home remedies for roaches that will not kill them, then this trick might help you to get rid of them too. Crush some bay leaves and sprinkle them in your cupboards or where you spot them often. Alternatively, you can boil some leaves and spray the water in infected corners. This desi tactic should keep them at bay.

#6: Find Some Home Remedies for Cockroaches in Your Bathroom

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Kill them on the spot with a mixture of fabric softener and water

If you’re looking for an alternative for market repellents then try mixing fabric softener with water and store it in a spray bottle. Whenever you spot a cockroach, spray this mixture on it directly and watch it perish. But, this might not be the best solution for large-scale infestation.

How to Get Rid of Cockroaches at Their Source?

Prevention is better than cure. Even when we have several home remedies for cockroaches, a few good practices can help you keep the pests at bay.

Tip #1: Clear Clutter to Let the Home Remedies for Cockroaches Work

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A clutter-free home will never attract pesky cockroaches

There is no remedy if you are wondering how to get rid of roaches overnight but a clean space will go a long way. A well-stocked pantry might be a favourite midnight craving, but if you spill food while you’re feasting, then you are in trouble. Exposed trash cans, food spills, clutter and dirt will act as a magnet for them. Therefore keep your surroundings as clean as possible.

Tip #2: Say No to Water Leakage

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Damp spots at home are a magnet for pests

Cockroaches need moisture and water to thrive. They love living in places that are moist, which is why you will often find them in humid environment. Something as simple as a leaking water pipe is enough to attract them. Make sure you do not keep standing water in the vicinity of your home for very long.

Trust us, these home remedies are tried and tested. You cannot go wrong with these. So what are you waiting for? Try these and stay in a cockroach-free and clean home.

Do you want some easy tips on removing turmeric stains? Take a look at this: 5 Easy Ways to Tackle Turmeric Stains on Kitchen Surfaces.

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