Bleach Effective Against Roaches? Entomology Experts Reveal the Facts About This Common Pest Control Method
In the battle against unwanted pests, bleach may seem like a go-to solution for many homeowners. However, a growing number of experts are recommending more natural and safer alternatives due to bleach's limitations and potential hazards.
Diatomaceous earth, a natural powder, is one such recommended staple for pest control. It works by drying up roaches from small cuts on their exoskeleton, ultimately leading to their demise. Another natural option is Adham's recommended formula spray, which uses essential oils to kill roaches on contact and is safe for children and pets.
A durable seal caulk, such as DAP INC Acrylic Latex Caulk, is an effective tool for exclusion - sealing off entry points to prevent new roaches from getting in. This quick-drying, non-yellowing, and mold-resistant product is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
While bleach may technically kill cockroaches if sprayed directly and in sufficient amounts, its effectiveness is questionable. Thousands of roaches hiding in walls and reproducing will remain unaffected, and roaches typically hide in small, hard-to-reach areas, making it unlikely that bleach will come into contact with them. Moreover, using bleach can attract more pests looking for a water source, and its strong fumes can be harmful to people and pets.
Fortunately, there are effective and safe alternatives to bleach for getting rid of cockroaches in the home. These alternatives work mainly by repelling, dehydrating, or poisoning cockroaches in a safer way than harsh chemicals.
Vinegar mixed with water can be sprayed in infested areas to repel cockroaches and also acts as a cleaning agent. Essential oils such as mint, neem, eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, peppermint, and rosemary have strong smells unpleasant to cockroaches and antimicrobial properties. Diluted in water and sprayed around entry points and kitchens, they create barriers cockroaches avoid.
Lemon juice solution cleans and repels roaches due to its citric acid and fresh scent, while baking soda kills roaches when ingested by causing digestive issues and can be combined with sugar or other attractants. Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic powder that dehydrates and kills insects upon contact, safe to use in dry places like under appliances and along baseboards.
Boric acid, mixed with sugar to attract roaches, acts as a natural poison to cockroaches but should be used cautiously around pets and children. Crushed garlic and bay leaves repel cockroaches by smell and can be placed in hiding areas or food storage spaces to deter infestation.
Sanitation plays a crucial role in reducing resources for cockroaches, making it less likely for them to stick around. Tony recommends using baits to treat cockroach colonies, as they lure roaches in on a food-based lure and kill them with a delayed-action insecticide.
For severe infestations, professional pest control may be required to ensure comprehensive eradication. In such cases, a professional-grade gel product is effective for applying in cracks and crevices where roaches hide. Jeremy suggests a child-safe design of bait stations for roach control, and a pack of six liquid baits as a good option for roaches.
In conclusion, while bleach may seem like a quick fix for cockroach infestations, it is not the most effective or safe solution. By adopting natural remedies and maintaining a clean environment, homeowners can effectively control and prevent cockroach infestations.
Science suggests that using natural alternatives like Diatomaceous earth or Adham's recommended formula spray for pest control in health-and-wellness and lifestyle is safer and more effective for homeowners, as they are non-toxic and child-friendly. Home-and-garden products such as DAP INC Acrylic Latex Caulk can help control cockroaches by sealing off entry points, creating a barrier that prevents new infestations.
