There are several different kinds of cockroaches found in Texas. German cockroaches prefer heat and humidity and thrive in temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They reproduce rapidly and are nocturnal, making them very difficult to catch and eradicate. These pests are known carriers of harmful bacteria and disease, making it important to deal with an infestation as soon as you see the signs.
Trying to tackle a German cockroach problem on your own is often a waste of time and energy. It's better to prevent them from inhabiting your home in the first place than try to eliminate them after they've invaded. Read on to discover how to get rid of German cockroaches and how All-Safe Pest & Termite Control can keep them out of your home for good.
How To Identify German Cockroaches
German cockroaches are the most common species of cockroach in the world. They are oval-shaped insects with six legs and two antennae and can be anywhere between 1/2" to 5/8" long. These cockroaches are a light brown or tan color with two darker stripes running down their backs. They also have wings but prefer to run over flying. German cockroaches move from place to place by hitching a ride on boxes, bags, and secondhand furniture and appliances.
German cockroaches prefer to live in warm, humid environments where they have easy access to food and water sources. These bugs feed on a wide variety of items outside of traditional food products, including toothpaste, soap, and glue. In large numbers, they may give off an unpleasant musty odor. These roaches are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms in both residential and commercial settings. One telltale sign of an infestation is finding droppings or fecal stains on doors, walls, and floors.
The Dangerous Diseases German Cockroaches Can Spread
While a German cockroach infestation hardly results in major structural damage, they are known carriers of various illnesses. These insects don't transmit diseases through direct contact with a host, like mosquitoes. They spread their germs indirectly by contaminating what they come in contact with. If cockroaches gain access to your food, you could unknowingly eat something contaminated and become sick. Here is a list of some of the diseases they spread:
- Typhoid fever
- E. coli infection
- Cholera
- Dysentery
- Listeriosis
- Giardia
- Gastroenteritis
- Salmonellosis
Additionally, cockroaches trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks in some individuals. Children are especially susceptible. If you suspect you have an infestation, it may be time to contact an exterminator who specializes in German cockroach pest control.
How To Reduce Factors That Attract Cockroaches To Your Home
If you're wondering how to deter cockroaches naturally, there are several steps you can take to prevent an infestation. Here are some tips homeowners find helpful:
- Clean up food scraps and wipe down kitchen countertops.
- Remove standing water sources and fix leaky pipes.
- Clear blocked drains.
- Empty your garbage and recyclables regularly.
- Store food in airtight plastic containers.
- Dust and vacuum often.
- Declutter storage spaces, removing old cardboard boxes.
- Seal cracks in your walls and foundation.
- Paint or varnish cracks in wooden shelving.
- Don't leave pet food and water out overnight.
- Inspect grocery bags after returning home from shopping.
- Run the water periodically in sinks used infrequently.
Even after taking the necessary precautions, cockroaches might still wind up in your home. Most do-it-yourself solutions to kill cockroaches fail because of how quickly these pests reproduce. If you don't eliminate all of the insects in your home, the infestation will reoccur, causing a huge amount of frustration. At the first signs of a German cockroach problem, call in the experts at All-Safe Pest & Termite.
The Secret To Total German Cockroach Control In Katy
The best way to stop German cockroaches from invading your home is to call in an expert exterminator. All-Safe Pest & Termite has been a trusted source of cockroach pest control in Katy since 1984. Our technicians will perform a full inspection and come up with a customized treatment solution to keep your home pest-free. Call us today to learn more about our programs and to schedule an appointment.