How to prevent a cockroach infestation

Avoiding a cockroach infestation in your home is essential. Here are some prevention tips to keep in mind.

Inspect new food containers purchased at the grocery store before bringing them into your home. Insects and eggs may be found there. Keep your food in hermetically sealed washable containers (glass or plastic). Quickly remove from the house any bags or cardboard boxes used to transport food.

Seal cracks with foam or silicone caulking inside kitchen cabinets, around ceilings, floors and walls and especially around water and drainage pipes. Install fine-mesh screens on ventilation vents, open pipes and drains.

Clean up spills and other dirt as quickly as possible. Never leave food or food scraps on counters or in the sink: if you don’t wash your dishes right away, soak them in soapy water (especially at night); do not leave water and food for your pets lying around. Vacuum often. Dispose of garbage in sealed plastic bags. Rinse recyclable containers before placing them in the recycling bin. Clean your floors regularly, especially behind appliances: even a thin layer of grease accumulated behind the stove can be enough to ensure the survival of cockroaches.

Vent your bathroom and dry out damp areas. Invest in a dehumidifier and maintain the humidity level at 45% or less.

Finally, if you move into a new home, inspect the premises before moving in. (see How to detect them).