If you’ve ever seen cockroaches, you know that they can be strange and gross-looking pests that you don’t want to have around your property. Cockroaches have a reputation for being unsanitary and difficult to remove, but the truth is that they are even worse than the negative things you’ve heard about them.
One fact many people don’t know about cockroaches is that there are around 4,500 species found throughout the world, but, of these species, there are only a handful of cockroaches in Houston, Texas. The most common of these is the German cockroach.
Facts About German Cockroaches
You can identify German cockroaches by their tan-colored bodies and the two black stripes that run parallel behind their heads. They have six legs and wings that lie flat on their backs, and they are rather small, at only about ⅝ of an inch long.
When inside homes, German cockroaches — like most cockroaches — prefer humid environments next to food sources. Because of this, they are often found in or near kitchens as well as bathrooms.
The Problems German Cockroaches Bring
German cockroaches are more than just unsanitary, as they can spread a host of illnesses that can harm people. While not all cockroach infestations will lead to illness, the risk is always there, and they can even spread severe diseases such as salmonellosis, E. coli infections, cholera, and gastroenteritis. Along with spreading pathogens, cockroaches can also cause allergic reactions and allergy attacks in some people.
And, on top of all this, the other big problem with cockroaches is that they are so difficult to remove. German cockroaches in particular are invasive because they prefer to live in tiny, enclosed spaces.
So, while they are attracted to many areas that other cockroaches are, they are also more adept at hiding in tiny crevices in walls or even in outlets and other small spaces throughout the home. This, combined with their ability to reproduce quickly, makes them difficult to remove because their numbers can quickly grow out of control.
Tips For Preventing Future Cockroach Infestations
While the best way to prevent and control cockroach infestations is with professional help, you can also follow some steps on your own to help prevent a German cockroach infestation, such as:
- Keep kitchen areas clean by wiping up food and drink spills immediately and sweeping and mopping often.
- Use dehumidifiers and fix leaky faucets to reduce humidity.
- Keep pet food stored in airtight containers.
- Take out the trash regularly and keep all garbage cans covered with lids.
- Seal up any holes in the walls to make it harder for cockroaches to get inside.
What’s The Best Way To Deal With German Cockroaches?
Because German cockroaches are so invasive and able to hide in so many places, they are particularly hard to eliminate using do-it-yourself methods. The only safe and effective way to completely remove German cockroaches is with help from the experts at All-Safe Pest & Termite. We have many years of experience eradicating cockroach infestations, and we can remove any cockroach problem, no matter how severe. We also take pride in offering effective, eco-friendly solutions that are safe for people and pets.
Request your free estimate and learn more about our residential pest solutions and commercial pest control plans today at . You can also leave us a message online or give us a call if you have any questions.