The ability to distinguish insects is very important in everyday life. Some pests can be very dangerous to your health and can stay in the apartment for a long time. Given that many species of insects look very similar, it can become difficult to recognize them.
Both cockroaches and boat bugs are common in the United States, and they can be seen in places such as kitchens, basements, bathrooms, and laundries. In this article, I will explain the distinctive features of water bugs vs cockroaches so that you can distinguish them and know how to deal with both.
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There are several key differences between water bugs and cockroaches.
For one, water bugs typically have a more flattened body shape, while cockroaches are more oval-shaped.
Additionally, water bugs have longer legs and swim faster than cockroaches.
Finally, water bugs typically live in or near water, while cockroaches can live in a variety of different habitats.
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Guide on Identification of a Water Bug
Pay attention to the insect size: The croton bug is bigger than a cockroach;
These pests also often have a grayish tinge;
They have much shorter antennae;
Count the number of legs: They have only 2 pairs of legs;
They also have a wider body shape and can fly.
Difference between roach and waterbug
Although cockroaches and croton insects are similar at first glance, they still have striking differences by which you can distinguish them:
First of all, most water bugs are larger than cockroaches;
They are usually longer than roaches, about 1.5 inches longer.
However, the problem is that the American cockroach species are similar in size to water bugs, which makes them look alike. Therefore, you need to focus on other features for proper identification of this pest:
Color
To tell the difference between a roach and a waterbug, you should look at their color. Water bugs have a grayer or browner hue that can fade into black, and you can recognize them by the characteristic yellow pattern on the back of the head. Meanwhile, cockroaches have a reddish-brown color with a warm undertone.
Shape
The difference between these insects is very noticeable when you look at their shapes. Water bugs have a wider body, and they all have wings. Some species of cockroaches don’t have them.
A cockroach has a more elongated, flat, and oval body. You might ask: can water bugs fly? These insects can fly, especially during the mating season. Among the cockroaches, only a few species can fly.
Antennae
If you still have any doubts about whether it is a water bug or a cockroach, look at the antennae. Both types of insects have antennae, but they are narrower and much longer in cockroaches. Boat bugs have short, thicker antennae that are located under the eyes.
Legs
If you see a water bug that looks like a cockroach, the easiest way to tell the difference is to take a look at the legs. Cockroaches have 3 pairs of legs; 2 of them are located along the body, and one pair of legs is closer to the head. A water bug has only two pairs of legs. Another important feature is that cockroaches have hairy legs, whereas water bugs’ legs are smooth.
Habitat
Among the features that distinguish them are their habitat and way of life. Cockroaches prefer dark, closed, and warm places, and they are afraid of the light. That’s why they run away if you turn on the lights at night. Nepomorpha insects prefer to stay in dark and humid places, and light can attract them.
Another distinguishing feature is their nutrition. Cockroaches feed on everything and are not picky. It can be leftover food or garbage. Water bugs are predators and feed mostly on smaller insects, although they can also eat algae if necessary.
What causes water bugs in the house?
You can understand that these insects are attracted to liquids just by their name. That is, if you live near a pond, especially freshwater ponds and lakes, croton insects can settle in your home. Also, the presence of Belostomatidae can be caused by high humidity in your home. They can also be brought to your home by thirst.
They can last a long time without food. However, dehydration forces them to seek refuge where there is water. Unlike cockroaches, Nepomorpha do not seek shelter specifically in your home. However, the presence of liquid or the bright light at night can attract them. Сockroaches breed in the house, and your home provides them with food, water, and shelter.
Both species lead a nocturnal lifestyle and are most active in the dark. That’s why you are unlikely to see them during the day. If you live in a private house and have a lawn, tall grass can also attract these insects. That is why regular lawn mowing can deprive them of their habitat near your home.
How to kill water bugs and cockroaches
Unfortunately, killing one or more insects is not enough to get rid of them forever. Usually, if you notice numerous cockroaches or boat bugs in your home, you should seek the help of pest control specialists. However, there are some tips to help you kill these insects.
Use boric acid
Boric acid is one of the most effective ways to kill these pests. Sprinkle a thin layer in the places of greatest accumulation. Then cockroaches or croton insects will swallow it, and the chemicals contained in it will poison their digestive systems.
Apply chemical pesticides
Dilute them in water as directed. Then spray the mixture in cracks and hard-to-reach areas where you suspect these pests to hide.
Use the bait
This method can help you destroy a whole colony of insects at once. Put the bait in a damp place. It can be near the sink, in the bathroom, or the basement. An insect will bring it to its hiding place, which will kill all the inhabitants.
Opt for preventive measures
To prevent these pests from reappearing, you need to remove moisture and keep the living area clean. It is necessary to get rid of sewage and not to leave food in easily accessible places.
FAQ on Dealing With Boat Bugs
When trying to get rid of pests, you need to understand what to expect and know the easiest ways to eliminate them. So you need to find out whether this insect is similar to other pests, as well as if it can physically harm you.
Is a water bug a cockroach?
Do you wonder “are water bugs roaches?” Despite their similarity, these are two different species of insects. However, people still often confuse the oriental roach, which is a cockroach, because it also loves moisture. The Nepomorpha is a water insect that does not belong to the cockroach family.
Do water bugs bite?
In general, this species feeds on other insects, not humans. However, they can bite you like other bedbugs. This type of insect does not bite a person first, but it can do it when it feels threatened. The bite can be quite painful but not dangerous unless you have an allergy.
How to repel water bugs from your house?
There are various methods to get rid of these insects. Boric acid, natural or chemical pesticides, and bait are commonly used. You also need to seal the entrances to the house, take care of cleanliness, and remove excess moisture. However, the best option is to use professional services.
Learn How to Identify the Pest
In pest control, it is important not only to know how to get rid of pests but also how to identify and distinguish if it is a waterbug or a cockroach. Cockroaches and boat bugs look very similar, but if you take a closer look at their color and shape, you will easily recognize them. The easiest way to identify a water bug is to look at its antennae and legs. The antenna is much shorter, and it has only two pairs of legs.
Where have you encountered these insects most often? Which method of pest control have you already used?
Cockroaches are very nasty creatures that easily enter the house. They can appear even in the cleanest accommodation, for example, by moving from your neighbor’s house. Naturally, when you see a cockroach, you want to get rid of it as soon as possible.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”Can You Kill a Cockroach by Stepping on It?” style=”main”] Cockroaches are one of the most resilient creatures on the planet and can withstand a lot of abuse. However, they are not indestructible, and if you step on one with enough force, it will die. [/wpsm_titlebox]
Crushing it might seem a fast method, but can you kill a cockroach by stepping on it? Cockroaches have a fairly strong exoskeleton. In this article, I share the information about what happens when you step on a cockroach and whether it will kill the pest.
Can You Squish a Cockroach: Brief Guide
You can kill a cockroach by crushing it;
Preferably, you should do it with additional tools;
Make an effort and completely crush the insect to break its exoskeleton;
If you squish it with your bare hands, be sure to wash and treat your hands with antiseptic.
What happens when you squish a cockroach?
Many people are interested in what happens after you crush a cockroach. Does killing a cockroach attract more of them? This situation might have several outcomes. If you don’t completely kill the cockroach, it can pretend to be dead.
Sometimes, roaches play dead; they can even roll over on their backs. Many people have seen cockroaches being motionless for a long time and coming back to life when the danger passes.
However, if you stepped hard enough or pressed on the insect and completely crushed its exoskeleton, there is nothing to worry about. The pest will not survive that and will instantly die. You should remember that cockroaches are social insects and multiply rapidly.
So if you notice one species at home, it means that there can be many more. They can hide in the gaps between the furniture, and they prefer to live in the kitchen.
Do cockroaches die when you step on them?
It depends on how you did it and whether it was your intention. For example, if you accidentally step on the insect barefoot, the cockroach might survive. The reason is they have a strong exoskeleton that protects them even from severe damage.
When pressed on the abdomen, mucus can be released, which can cause skin problems or other diseases. Therefore, you should not try to crush a cockroach with your bare feet.
Dictyoptera insects are quite hardy, so they can withstand even serious injuries. However, if you step on a cockroach with enough strength in shoes, it will surely die. You still need to make sure that its exoskeleton is completely damaged, and you hear a crunch. After that, a cockroach just can not survive.
Even after such a successful roach crush, you have to remember that it does not solve the problem itself. If you notice one pest in the house, it is likely that they have already settled there, and you will have to deal with the infestation.
If you step on a cockroach, does it release its eggs?
Fortunately, the idea that cockroaches release eggs after death is another myth. There are several reasons for this:
First of all, cockroaches mostly do not carry their eggs with them. Cockroach females have an ootheca that contains from 30 to 40 eggs. Ootheca has a solid structure consisting of protein, like an exoskeleton. It is quite strong and protected, usually black or brown. Most of the time, they do not carry the ootheca behind them but leave it in cracks or other hiding places;
Some species also carry eggs inside their bodies or at the end of their abdomens. Stepping on a cockroach is unlikely to release its eggs. Even if you step on a pest that has hatched eggs, do not worry. They will die with the roach. The eggs will be crushed together with a cockroach, without withstanding the weight of your foot.
Those cases are aimed at protecting unborn cockroaches, but they can’t withstand a person’s weight. They can only protect the eggs from harmful bacteria or bad weather. Your task is to step on the insect hard enough to crush both the mother and the eggs if they are there as well.
FAQ on Squishing a Cockroach
Sometimes you cannot completely crush the pest but only half of it. If you are worried about whether the dead roach attracts other pests, learn more about the consequences of these problems in this section.
Can you squish cockroaches?
Yes, you can do it if you are not afraid of these pests and the white matter that comes out of their stomachs after death. However, do not do it with your bare hands or feet as this is not hygienic.
Can you kill a cockroach with your hand?
When you see a cockroach, you might be afraid to lose sight of it. Sometimes, you might want to kill it quickly with your hand, and you can do it. As I have noted earlier, a squashed cockroach secretes harmful mucus. That is why you should not do it with bare hands.
What happens if I only squash half a cockroach?
The cockroach will still be able to survive for some time. However, without the second half of its body, it will become weak and unable to navigate in space. Without the brain, the roach’s memory deteriorates. The pest will die in a while, or other predators will eat it.
Does killing a cockroach attract more?
There is a very popular myth that a crushed roach can attract more. Though it releases a certain pheromone after death, it serves rather as a warning. And other pests will beware of this place and avoid it unless they are hungry.
Easy and Quick Method to Kill Roaches
If you see a cockroach at home, the fastest way to get rid of it is to just step on it. Since the cockroach has a strong enough protective shell, you need to make some effort to crush it. Even if it is a female insect that lays eggs, don’t be afraid to kill it. Remember to protect the skin and treat it if it comes into direct contact with the insect.
Do you have an effective method to crush a cockroach? Share your experience! Where do you most often see insects in your apartment?
Other diseases (Sagar L. Kale, Komal Agrawal, Shailendra Nath Gaur & Naveen Arora) https://www.nature.com/articles/srep42341
Ootheca (P. C.J. BRUNET Department of Zoology and Comparative Anatomy, University Museum, Oxford) https://journals.biologists.com/jcs/article/s3-92/18/113/64023/The-Formation-of-the-Ootheca-by-Periplaneta
Other predators (By Edmund Mills) https://sciencing.com/differences-between-crayfish-grasshoppers-8150369.html
Cockroaches are one of the most dangerous pests that you can think of since they can carry around infectious diseases. How to attract a cockroach out of hiding to finally catch it in a trap? There are, fortunately, many methods that you can use.
Generally, cockroaches are not the neighbors you want to have since they can easily get inside and then survive almost anything you throw at them.
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There are a few things that you can do in order to attract a cockroach out of hiding.
One thing that you can do is to reduce the amount of food that you have in your home. Cockroaches are attracted to food, so if you reduce the amount of food that you have, they will be more likely to come out of hiding.
Another thing that you can do is to increase the amount of light in your home. Cockroaches are attracted to light, so if you increase the amount of light, they will be more likely to come out of hiding.
Finally, you can use a cockroach trap. This will attract the cockroaches and then kill them.
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What Can I Do to Catch Cockroaches
If you are looking for how to get a cockroach out of hiding, there are pretty easy tips that you need to apply at your house:
Make sure you have baits with food
Find out where most of them are located
Place the traps in the common places of visit
Where You Can Find Them
Roaches have gotten used to living alongside humans a long time ago. They can be found in any place which isn’t cleaned properly and contains sources of food and water. These creatures hide in tiny spaces you won’t even think about, so it is very important to know your enemy’s secrets.
How Do I Get Them Out of Hiding?
The first thing cockroaches look for in our houses is food, so it is logical to use it against them. The most effective traps use food baits in them, which cockroaches bring to their colonies. You need to understand that they won’t just run around any corner, so your traps need to be placed in specific areas.
Roaches are nocturnal insects, which means that they don’t like the light as well as people and noise. Your best option is to put your traps in less crowded spaces. In addition, don’t check on them too often, because it will also scare away the pests.
You can potentially find a whole colony in your house, but it is dangerous to try and deal with it yourself. Cockroaches leave a lot of pathogens and allergens, which can cause problems upon breathing them in.
Common places where these pests settle are the kitchen and bathroom. Especially in kitchens, where there are enough products to feed on and the furniture is conveniently placed to hide behind.
You can try and move around stoves, freezers, washing machines, and trash cans – these are the most common locations of the roaches. Leaving baits around such points is a good idea to see where exactly your unwanted guests prefer to go.
Best Methods to Draw Out Cockroaches
So how to draw out a cockroach? There are plenty of traps the world can offer, and they all work in different ways. You might know about sticky traps, which are based on just getting the insect on the surface and then leaving it there until it dies.
A good thing would be to place a piece of bread on the trap since cockroaches are big fans of starch. Generally, they will eat anything you can offer them, but nutritional and mushy food will be your best choice.
Use high-sugar mixes
In addition, you can find some baby food or high-sugar mixes that can also attract these pests. Some traps use chemicals that stick to the bugs’ legs, and then they bring them to the whole colony, slowly poisoning the nest.
Their effectiveness can change from one to another, but it is still a good prevention method. Usually, they have a smell attractant for the cockroach, so they will be interested in inspecting it closer.
Find cockroach trails
Don’t try knocking around floors and walls because you are more likely to scare the cockroaches away. It is better to find out their trails around the house and place the traps. Of course, if you are lucky to locate the colony, you can try using some pesticides on the area, so the roaches come out and get on the traps.
Make sure to always wear a mask, because roach infestation has high amounts of disease-inducing pathogens.
Use different kinds of traps for the best results
Conveniently placed food might not be enough since cockroaches try to avoid open spaces. You need to try and place the traps in areas they are likely to explore and then cut their ways to the colony. You might encounter different stages of life in cockroaches starting with small whitish larvae and grown brown imago.
Their food preference doesn’t change much over time, but some traps can be more effective against adult insects, and others are more effective against youngsters.
Lures You Can Do Yourself
There are plenty of tips on how to trap roaches. Most of them are actually easy to make, so you might think about creating one rather than buying it.
Duct tape
For example, you can replace glue or sticky traps with just some tape. The method is quite easy: you take a piece of tape and put it in a dark place where roaches are likely to appear. You need to put the tape with a sticky side up to make sure the insects stick to it.
In addition, you might want to put some food on it, so the pests will be interested in it and crawl over the tape. It can be bread or any other food leftovers. The problem is, you will have to check on it regularly, and it needs regular replacement.
Jar method
There is also a jar method, which doesn’t differ much from the one mentioned previously. You need to find a clear jar and cover it with petroleum jelly. The substance should be applied in good amount, so it fills all the walls of the jar. The jelly is sticky and slippery, so any insects that come inside won’t be able to escape.
Inside the jar, you also need to put a food bait of any kind. You can try leaving peanut butter and or some sugary cereal. Cockroaches like something high in calories – once they find this trap, they will go into the jar and then won’t be able to crawl out of it.
A jar method is more effective than duct tape since you won’t need to change your trap often. In addition, if you see that the jar needs replacement, you clean it out of all the dead insects and repeat all the previous steps.
Soda bottle trap
There is also a soda bottle trap. It requires some more effort, but it is as effective in trapping the insects. For this, you will need a plastic 2-liter bottle of any kind, cut it in half and place the curving side with the cap inside so the opening leads to the bottom of the trap. Make sure that you tightly seal any openings because it is a sure way for insects to escape.
On the bottom, you put some peanut butter or bread soaked in beer and cover the walls of the bottle with frying oil or petroleum jelly. Curious roaches will get into the bottle and then won’t be able to get out of it due to the slippery walls.
FAQ
There are plenty of questions that can appear while you are trying to get rid of the cockroaches. Here we’ve gathered some common answers that might help you on your journey.
What smell attracts cockroaches?
Cockroaches love anything that has starch and sugar in it, that is why bread traps are so common. In addition, rotting fruits and vegetables can be the source of a strong smell that attracts insects. Of course, they also won’t mind feeding on some free meat.
How do you get roaches to come to you?
Overall, you just need to get any kind of cockroach traps like sticky tapes or chemical baits and then lure them in with food. Since cockroaches are omnivorous, there is plenty of food you can place on your baits. It is also important to find the right place: it should be quiet, dark, and away from crowds in your house.
Can you scare roaches out of hiding?
You can, but it is not an effective method of fighting. You can try scaring the colony out to the traps you’ve placed near its location, but be ready that there are a lot of cockroaches inside of it.
What smells keep cockroaches away?
Cockroaches don’t like the smell of peppermint oil, cedar wood, and cypress. These plants are their natural repellent that you can use around the house. In addition, they don’t fancy crushed bay leaves that you might leave around the corners.
Try to Kick Them Out as Soon as You Can
Knowing how to lure a roach out of hiding is your upper hand in a battle with the insect. You need to understand that roach infestation can be dangerous to have inside the house, so it is better to deal with the problem as soon as you identify it. Always have some traps around and be ready to use food baits.
How do you lure the cockroaches out? What methods do you find the most effective? Please, share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Living alongside humans (Gholam Hossein Shahraki, Saadat Parhizkar and Alireza Raygan Shirazi Nejad, International Journal of Zoology): https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijz/2013/649089/#abstract
A lot of pathogens and allergens (Eric S Donkor): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7218330/
They all work in different ways (Changlu Wang): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/233611837_Comparison_of_Cockroach_Traps_and_Attractants_for_Monitoring_German_Cockroaches_Dictyoptera_Blattellidae
Something high in calories (Prachumporn Lauprasert, Duangkhae Sitthicharoenchai, Kumthorn Thirakhupt): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/251221135_Food_Preference_and_Feeding_Behavior_of_the_German_Cockroach_Blattella_germanica_Linnaeus
Most people have heard of cockroaches, but not everyone knows what they are. Roaches vary in size and appearance, but all roaches share some common traits by being brown or black and having long, slender bodies. Some roaches are small, but others can grow into terrifying monsters up to 3 inches long!
[wpsm_titlebox title=”Does Bleach Kill Roaches?” style=”main”] Yes, bleach does kill roaches. However, it will not kill roaches instantly. It may take up to several hours for the roaches to die. [/wpsm_titlebox]
Roaches are attracted to dirty environments, and they love to eat garbage. This makes them a big problem for homes and businesses. They can spread disease and contaminate food, and they’re just generally unpleasant to have around.
So, does bleach kill roaches? Let’s find out!
How to Kill Roaches Using Bleach?
Pour bleach into a spray bottle and shake it up
Spray the roaches you see with the bleach until they’re dead
For extra measure, spray around areas where you think roaches may be hiding
If you have a serious roach problem, consider hiring an exterminator
Will Bleach Kill Roaches and Is It Effective?
We all know how much of nuisance roaches can be. They’re dirty, they’re gross, and they’re just plain pesky. So, when we see them in our homes, we want them gone – fast!
One of the first things we think of is bleach. After all, it’s a strong cleaning chemical that can kill lots of different types of bacteria. But can bleach kill roaches?
The answer is: yes and no.
Bleach will kill roaches if you direct it towards them and make contact. However, this isn’t always the most effective method as roaches are notoriously good at running away and avoiding contact with chemicals. It’s also not the most effective way to kill roaches since they can quickly develop a resistance to it.
Plus, bleach has a very strong smell that can be irritating to humans. So, if you’re thinking of using bleach to get rid of your roach problem, you might want to consider some other options first. But if you’re set on using bleach, here’s how to do it safely and effectively.
What is a Proper Way to Use Bleach Against Roaches?
If you’re looking for a way to get rid of roaches, you may have considered using bleach. Bleach can kill roaches if it’s used properly, but it’s not necessarily the most effective method.
To use bleach effectively against roaches, you need to make a solution that is one-part bleach and one-part water. This solution can then be sprayed directly on roaches, or into cracks and crevices where they like to hide.
Bleach is a strong chemical and should be used with caution. Be sure to ventilate the area well and wear gloves and a mask when handling bleach. In addition, this solution should be used as a last resort, as it will kill not only roaches but can also be harmful to household pets.
Bleach Safety Precautions
If you’re looking for a way to get rid of cockroaches, you may be considering using bleach. However, it’s important to take some safety precautions when using bleach, as it can be harmful to humans and animals if used incorrectly.
When using bleach to kill cockroaches, always make sure that the area is well-ventilated. Bleach gives off harmful fumes that can be dangerous to breathe in, so it’s important to open windows and doors to let the fumes out. You should also wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from the fumes.
Bleach can also be harmful to surfaces, so be sure to use it sparingly and only on surfaces that can handle it. Bleach can damage paint, wood, and fabric, so use it with caution.
Finally, always make sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions when using bleach. Never mix bleach with hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, vinegar, alcohol, and other cleaning chemicals, as it can result in the release of chlorine gas that is extremely dangerous for humans.
How to Fight a Cockroach Infestation?
There are other ways to get rid of cockroaches, however. If you’re dealing with a roach problem, try some of these methods:
Use roach traps: These traps lure roaches in with food and then kill them.
Apply roach gel: This gel contains a poison that kills roaches when they eat it.
Use an insecticide: Using insecticides is the most effective method of killing cockroaches.
When using such methods be sure to follow the directions carefully and keep children and pets away from the treated area.
How to properly use a roach gel?
If you’re dealing with a cockroach infestation, one of the most effective ways to get rid of them is to use roach gel. This gel is specifically designed to kill cockroaches, and it’s relatively easy to use. Here’s a quick guide on how to properly use roach gel:
Apply the gel in small dots around your home, focusing on areas where cockroaches are commonly seen.
The gel should be applied sparingly, as too much can repel cockroaches rather than kill them.
Once the gel is applied, wait for the cockroaches to come into contact with it. This could take a few days, so be patient.
Once the cockroaches have been killed, clean up any remaining gel and dispose of it properly.
FAQ
Do roaches hate bleach and does bleach kill cockroaches? These questions are asked way too often. Here is what you should know about bleach and roaches and the most common questions that people have when they are trying to deal with a cockroach infestation.
Can bleach keep roaches away?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Cockroaches are actually quite resistant to bleach. So, while bleaching your floors or counters may make them look cleaner, it won’t do anything to deter roaches.
What kills roaches instantly?
There are a number of products on the market that claim to kill roaches instantly. However, it is important to remember that no single product will work for all roaches. Some of the most effective products contain a combination of insecticide and attractant, which lure the roaches into the trap and then kill them.
How long does it take for bleach to kill a cockroach?
If a cockroach is fully submerged in a strong chemical such as bleach, it will die in a matter of seconds. However, don’t expect a cockroach to roll over and die if you lightly spray it from a distance.
What smells keep roaches away?
There are a few potential smells that may keep roaches away. These include strong scents like citrus, lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint. You can try diffusing essential oils or spraying a diluted solution around your home. You can try putting some of these substances on cotton balls or pieces of paper and placing them around your home in areas where roaches are a problem.
Using Bleach is Not the Best Option
There are many ways to kill roaches, but using bleach is not always the best option. While bleach will kill roaches, it is not always the most effective method. There are other methods that may be more effective, such as using traps or insecticides.
Boric acid, for example, is a great insecticide that is much more effective and safer to use. If you do use bleach to kill roaches, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take precautions to avoid contact with the chemical.
Did you ever try using bleach to kill cockroaches? Were you successful? Tell us in the comments below.
3 inches long (Wikipedia): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Megaloblatta
Safety precautions when using bleach (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services): https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/bleach.html
Release of chlorine gas (Baylor University): https://www.baylor.edu/ehs/index.php?id=93789
Roach gel (Andrew Sutherland, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California): https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=30633
Roaches are one of the most common pests in homes and businesses, and they can be extremely difficult to get rid of. They have been linked to a number of diseases, including dysentery, diarrhea, and typhoid fever. They can also trigger asthma attacks in people who are allergic to them. But there is one product that is proven to be effective against roaches: boric acid.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”Does Boric Acid Kill Roaches?” style=”main”] Boric acid is an effective insecticide against cockroaches because it is poisonous to them. The acid works by dehydrating and ultimately killing the roaches. [/wpsm_titlebox]
How to Use Boric Acid to Kill Roaches?
Mix boric acid with water to form a paste and then apply it to areas where roaches are present such as cracks and crevices.
You can also make bait stations using boric acid and place them in areas where roaches are active.
Be sure to keep children and pets away.
What is Boric Acid?
Boric acid is a naturally-occurring compound that has a wide range of uses. It is commonly used as an antiseptic and preservative and has even been shown to have insecticidal properties. In addition, boric acid is effective at absorbing moisture, making it ideal for use in drying agents and cleaning products.
One of the most popular methods for killing roaches is boric acid since it is relatively safe to use around humans and pets (when used correctly). It works by causing the roach to dehydrate, which eventually leads to death.
If you wish to use boric acid for roaches extermination, you can get it in most hardware stores, and can be used as a powder or as a gel. For best results, it’s important to apply the boric acid directly to where the roaches are active.
This may mean placing it in cracks and crevices, beneath appliances, or in cabinets. It’s also important to make sure that children and pets cannot access the boric acid, as it can be harmful if ingested.
What Does Boric Acid Do to Roaches?
“How does boric acid kill roaches?” is a question that we get asked fairly frequently. Boric acid is an effective roach killer because it dehydrates and poisons them. However, boric acid can only work when a cockroach crawls through it. Thankfully, it doesn’t repel cockroaches as some other pesticides do. This means that they’re more likely to come into contact with the boric acid and be killed.
When cockroaches crawl over boric acid, the powder will get stuck on their body and legs. As a result, the cockroach will ingest the boric acid while it is grooming itself. It will also enter the body of the cockroach through its shell.
Once boric acid enters the body of the cockroach it will start affecting its digestive and nervous systems, which will inevitably cause it to die. Moreover, since cockroaches are not picky eaters and will often consume their comrades, they will often eat cockroaches who died of boric acid and, as a result, die as well causing a domino effect.
Is Boric Acid Safe for Humans and Pets?
Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound that is found in a variety of places, including volcanic regions. It has been used as an insecticide, antiseptic, and preservative for centuries. Boric acid is also commonly used in a variety of household products, such as detergents, adhesives, and cleaning products. But is boric acid safe for humans and pets?
While boric acid is considered to be relatively safe for humans and pets, there are some precautions that should be taken when using it. However, it can be dangerous if it is ingested or if it comes into contact with the eyes or skin.
If you use boric acid, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and keep it out of reach of children and pets. In addition, pregnant women should avoid contact with boric acid. If you have any concerns about using boric acid products, please speak to your doctor or veterinarian.
How to Use Boric Acid Against Roaches Properly
If you’re looking for a natural way to get rid of roaches, boric acid is a great option. This substance is derived from boron, and it’s effective at killing these pests.
Boric acid + flour mix
Purchase boric acid powder from your local hardware store.
Make a mixture of one-part boric acid and three-parts flour, and place it in a shallow dish.
Place the dish in an area where roaches are known to congregate, such as under the sink or behind the refrigerator.
The roaches will be attracted to the mixture and will ingest it, which will kill them.
Boric acid paste
You can also mix the boric powder with water to create a paste. The paste can be applied to cracks and crevices where cockroaches like to hide. You can also put the paste into bait stations and place them around your home.
Boric acid powder
You can also simply sprinkle some boric acid for cockroaches to crawl over. As long as you choose the places wisely, it will be extremely effective.
Boric acid is a very effective way to kill cockroaches, but it is important to use it correctly. If you use too much boric acid, it can be harmful to humans and pets. If you have any questions about how to use boric acid, you should consult a pest control professional.
Other Methods of Killing Roaches That Don’t Involve Boric Acid
As we’ve discussed, boric acid is one of the most effective ways to kill cockroaches. But if you’re not comfortable using pesticides, there are other methods you can use to get rid of these pests.
Roach traps
One popular method is to use roach traps. These traps work by luring roaches into them with a food bait, and then killing them with an adhesive. Roach traps are usually very effective, but they can be a bit messy since you have to dispose of the dead roaches.
Gel baits
Another option is to use cockroach gel baits. These baits contain a poison that kills roaches when they eat them. The advantage of using gel baits is that they’re very effective at killing roaches, and they’re also easy to use. Simply apply the gel bait to areas where you think roaches are active, and they’ll eventually die off.
Diatomaceous earth
If you want to avoid using pesticides altogether, there are some natural methods you can try. One popular method is to use diatomaceous earth. This substance is made from the fossilized remains of tiny sea creatures, and it’s deadly to cockroaches (and other insects). Simply sprinkle some diatomaceous earth around your home, and the roaches will eventually die off.
Professional pest control
The final method is to hire a professional pest control company to come in and treat your home for roaches. This is usually a last resort, but it can be effective if you have a serious infestation. Professional companies will usually use pesticides or baits that are more potent than what you can buy at the store, so they can be more effective at getting rid of roaches.
Whatever method you choose, make sure you’re taking steps to prevent cockroaches from entering your home in the first place. This includes sealing up cracks and crevices around your home, keeping food and water sources clean, and removing potential hiding places for roaches. By taking these preventive measures, you’ll be less likely to have a cockroach problem in the first place.
FAQ
Boric acid is one of the most effective methods against roaches. But there are still a lot of misconceptions about this substance. Below, we want to clear up some of the most frequently asked questions about boric acid.
How long does boric acid take to kill roaches?
It usually takes about 72 hours for a cockroach to die after it has been exposed to boric acid. It might seem a bit slow, but boric acid is an effective tool that can allow you to kill all roaches in your home if used correctly.
What do you mix with boric acid to kill roaches?
Boric acid is one of the most effective roach killers available. To make it even more effective, mix it with sugar or flour. The sugar or flour will attract the roaches and they will eat it, ingesting the boric acid and dying. You can also mix it with water to create a paste.
What gets rid of roaches permanently?
There is no single silver bullet that will get rid of roaches permanently. But there are a number of things you can do to help control them.
First, make sure to keep your home clean.
Second, make use of roach traps or poison baits.
Third, seal up any cracks or crevices around your home where roaches could be getting in.
Does boric acid work on cockroach eggs?
Yes. However, in order for it to work, you will have to generously apply boric acid to areas where cockroaches usually lay their eggs. Once the eggs hatch, the boric acid will kill off any nymphs that walk over it.
Boric Acid: Great Method of Killing Cockroaches
Boric acid is a safe, natural way to get rid of roaches. It is cheap and easy to find, and it works. You can use boric acid to kill roaches by sprinkling it around their hiding places. Boric acid will kill roaches when they eat it, so it is important to make sure that the powder is in places where they will come into contact with it.
Did you ever use boric acid to kill cockroaches? How successful were you? Tell us in the comment section below.
Number of diseases (Rentokil PCI): https://www.rentokil-pestcontrolindia.com/about-rentokil/
Boric acid (Boone, C.; Bond, C.; Stone, D. 2012. Boric Acid General Fact Sheet; National Pesticide Information Center, Oregon State University Extension Services) http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/boricgen.html
Other methods (Nebraska Extension): https://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/pdf/g1523.pdf
Baking soda is a food ingredient that you can find in every home. However, in addition to its direct purpose, it is famous for the fact that it effectively kills cockroaches. But how can it be true if these insects manage to adapt and survive even high-class insecticides? Does baking soda kill roaches better than sophisticated chemicals?
[wpsm_titlebox title=”How Does Baking Soda Kill Roaches?” style=”main”] Baking soda is truly able to eliminate all of your cockroach problems. But in order for this to happen, insects must eat it first, allowing for chemical processes to begin in their guts. Soda reacts with water and begins to expand in the intestines of a cockroach. This process usually kills the insect due to overpressure since the exoskeleton of insects cannot expand. [/wpsm_titlebox]
How to Kill Roaches With Baking Soda
If you have chosen baking soda as your method of choice, here is what you have to do:
Mix soda and sugar in a 1:1 ratio;
Thoroughly blend it together;
Sprinkle the mixture on countertops and room corners.
Do cockroaches eat baking soda?
When choosing baking soda as the means of killing cockroaches, the main goal is to get them to eat it because it is quite obvious that baking soda for roaches is not something that they will eat willingly. However, in order for it to work, it must enter the body of an insect. Cockroaches will not eat this substance because they are not attracted to either its smell or taste. On the other hand, cockroaches do not have an aversion to it either, which means that if you mix it with a food product that they like, they will happily eat it.
In order to understand why cockroaches do not eat baking soda, you should learn more about this chemical. Baking soda, well-known as sodium bicarbonate, is a white powder composed of two different chemicals: bicarbonate anions and sodium cations. This mix is an excellent pH neutralizer that expands under any chemical interaction to create a gas.
The taste of baking soda is quite characteristic and not similar to the flavors of food, so the cockroach will never eat it without additional tricks on your part. Therefore, be sure to mix it with something that will attract the insect.
Why does baking soda kill roaches?
Will baking soda kill roaches after you mix it in with sugar and leave it in an accessible place? Of course, it will. But in order to make sure of this, you need to understand how such a completely harmless substance turns into an effective weapon against cockroaches. After the insect eats enough baking soda, it literally explodes inside, which leads to a fairly quick death. Let’s find out how this happens and why.
The property of baking soda that causes it to expand on contact with other substances, such as water, is the key to this. Sodium bicarbonate will react with the carbonic acid resulting in an exothermic reaction. To put it simply, it will begin to turn into a gas so quickly that it will release heat.
The structural features of cockroaches do not allow their internal organs to stretch even a little, which, on the one hand, reliably protects them against external mechanical damage but, on the other hand, makes them extremely vulnerable to the expanding soda. The gas will crush the internal organs, leading to rapid death. So, you might as well make a homemade cockroach killer baking soda to fix your insect problem once and for all.
How fast does baking soda kill cockroaches?
According to a number of large studies, a cockroach dies from baking soda after about 15 hours. There are several factors that affect this number:
the amount of water drunk;
the amount of baking soda eaten;
the amount of time that passed between eating soda and drinking water.
Water is essential for this chemical reaction to take place. So, if the cockroach couldn’t find water for a long time, or didn’t drink enough, then the reaction can last much longer than the specified time.
Also, the cockroach is able to live for several hours and even days after its exoskeleton cracks, after which death occurs due to the fact that it is immobilized and unable to get water and food. However, the fate of such an insect is sealed.
Baking soda is a great remedy since it is completely harmless to people while being deadly to cockroaches. Of course, professional products with bait can sometimes give faster and more reliable results since you have to tinker with the taste and smell of soda. However, this is a method that definitely deserves your attention.
Just keep in mind that you will have to do some work to find the right combination of food and baking soda to ensure your success. After that, the question of can baking soda kill roaches will finally be resolved.
What you can pair baking soda with?
The essential point in the effective use of baking soda against cockroaches is the right choice of flavor combinations. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular and simple examples.
Baking soda and sugar to kill roaches
This mix is by far one of the most effective and works great since sugar smells extremely pleasant to cockroaches and has a texture similar to baking soda, making it easy to mix. In order to achieve the best result, it is best to use sugar powder since this will prevent the insect from eating one substance and not the other. The ideal proportion is a 1-to-1 ratio.
Baking soda and vinegar to kill roaches
This combination is theoretically capable of killing cockroaches but is less effective than the previous one since vinegar has a strong smell, which, unlike sugar, does not seem to be tempting to an insect. Also, the chemical reaction of soda will happen much earlier than it gets into the stomach of a cockroach, and after that, the effect will be much smaller than expected.
Baking soda and onion to kill roaches
Onions are quite suitable as a food that will mask the taste of soda. To do this, cut it into tiny pieces, sprinkle it generously with soda, and place it in secluded places where the cockroach is most likely to eat the bait. However, you should first soak up the excess juice from the onion so that the baking soda does not react earlier than necessary.
FAQ on Baking Soda vs. Roaches
To recap, here are the most popular questions that people ask when trying to kill cockroaches using soda.
How long does it take baking soda to kill roaches?
It usually takes 15 hours for a cockroach to die after eating baking soda and drinking water afterward.
How do you get rid of roaches with baking soda overnight?
Unfortunately, baking soda isn’t very likely to resolve all your cockroach problems in a single night. This method is completely safe for children and pets, but it is not as effective as special commercial insecticides.
What kills roaches overnight?
The best roach killers are products that contain indoxacarb as its main ingredient, along with bait that makes the cockroaches attracted to it. This chemical isn’t particularly dangerous to humans, though it can lead to methemoglobinemia.
Does baking soda and vinegar kill roaches?
Unfortunately, vinegar reduces the effectiveness of soda since it activates it too quickly. Also, vinegar has a strong smell that roaches do not like.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Baking Soda Use
The choice of baking soda as a means of killing cockroaches is completely justified since the product is effective while being harmless to people and animals, so you don’t have to worry that a child or pet will be poisoned after accidentally eating the bait. The only downside is that the method is less reliable than professional insecticides, and you have to make your own bait and mix baking soda with it.
Have you ever tried killing cockroaches using baking powder? What did you use as bait and were you successful? Tell us in the comments below.
Roaches are definitely something anyone would like to avoid in their home. Nevertheless, they still magically appear from time to time. Telling the difference between wood roach vs cockroach is fairly hard since they look fairly similar at first glance. It might be hard to spot the difference in these insects, but you should know that wood roaches are not your enemy. “What are wood roaches?” you might ask. In short, they are insects that won’t harm you or your household.
To know the difference between the tree roaches and cockroaches, you just need to look at their size: the latter are usually bigger and darker in color.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”Wood Roach vs Cockroach” style=”main”]
Size: wood roaches are typically smaller than cockroaches.
Body: wood roaches have a flattened body shape, while cockroaches are more oval-shaped.
Wings: wood roaches typically have wings, while cockroaches do not.
Habitat: wood roaches are more likely to be found in wooded areas, while cockroaches are more likely to be found in urban environments.
[/wpsm_titlebox]
How to Tell the Difference Between Roaches?
Here is how you can quickly tell the difference between tree roaches and regular cockroaches:
They have different colors. Tree roaches are beige or light brown, while cockroaches are reddish or dark brown.
Tree roaches have wings while cockroaches do not.
Tree roaches are attracted by light and, unlike cockroaches, do not hide when the sun comes up.
Differences between wood cockroaches and other cockroaches
It is important to be aware of some specific characteristics of different roaches that can potentially change your approach to getting rid of them.
Wood roaches
Most of the time, people confuse a wood cockroach with a regular cockroach. Although, many entomologists would be offended because they are of different species. Let’s look at the two separately to find out how to spot which one you are dealing with.
Of course, it is easy to google pictures of wood roaches, but without a trained eye, they all look the same. Wood roaches are small insects, they have light brown if not yellowish color, and they are usually spotted outside. They have wings and can fly during their whole lifecycle.
Their reproduction season starts in May or June, and these species prefer to breed only during warm times, as it is easier to hatch healthy offspring. Their eggs are laid inside the old or dead bark, where young cockroaches can find enough food to grow.
Wood roaches primarily feed on decaying matter, and their mouth is specialized to work through the tough material of the trees. Moreover, their habitat should be humid enough for them to feel comfortable enough to reproduce. This is why wood roaches in the house are a rare appearance. Their intestines contain yeast-heavy microflora, which helps them digest all of the eaten wood.
The other interesting characteristic is their light sensitivity. Wood roaches are mainly active during the daytime, which means that they won’t be afraid of you coming into the room and switching the lights on. They might be startled by flickering but will not try to run away at first sight.
Cockroaches and their characteristics
Cockroaches, on the other hand, are much more frequently seen in houses than outside. What you should pay attention to is their size since they can reach up to 2 inches long. In addition, they have a dark-brown or reddish exterior that helps to hide in the darkness. They are highly invasive, which means that once they get into your house, it might be really hard to get rid of them.
Another difference that you might notice in cockroaches is that they don’t have wings until their first molding. The development of a house cockroach happens over the course of several days. Cockroaches can breed at any season of the year, as long as there is enough food and it’s warm and dark enough.
House roaches prefer eating spoiled food and very rarely consume hard materials such as rotten wood. You can see them in your trashcan or around big piles of used products. They will eat any leftovers you got, as they are not really picky in their diet.
Of course, proteins and fats have more energy in them, that is why they might prefer these foods over others. Cockroaches also produce allergens that may cause breathing difficulties.
Light sensitivity is also a distinct feature of these insects. They will go out mostly during the night to avoid any accidental interactions with humans. Once you turn on the light – they will immediately scatter around the room, looking for a dark corner to hide in. They are afraid of you as much as you are of them, so you should not worry about them getting anywhere close to your body.
How to prevent wood cockroaches from entering your house
There might be different reasons for wood roaches and cockroaches to be in your house. Both of them can be annoying pests, and of course, it would be better to not have them in your space.
Keeping Wood Roaches Out is Easy
Wood cockroaches usually appear in your house by accident. They might accidentally wander in or get carried inside with footwear. They don’t like being in human spaces, as there is mostly no reason for them to be in our houses. What might be a problem is that even though there is a great variety of different insecticides against roaches, they won’t be as effective against tree roaches.
If they do invade your house, it is better to try to let them out on their own by guiding the insects closer to the open doors or windows. Using different chemical compounds inside your house might also negatively affect your health, causing an allergic reaction. There are also special sprays that you can use outside your house to spray the chemical on the possible ways these insects can enter through.
Keeping cockroaches out is hard
Things are more difficult with house cockroaches, though. These pests can easily get into your house and will refuse to get out no matter how hard you try. The first thing you need to do to prevent them from getting inside is always clean up any food waste they might be potentially attracted to.
Always wash your dishes and don’t let the trash stay inside for too long. Be sure to check all of the tight corners and drawers because roaches like to lay their eggs in places that most of the time are overlooked by us.
When you know that cockroaches are already in your house, there are different approaches you might choose while dealing with them. The first one is sticky traps that have a specific bait that will attract roaches to them, and then the insects won’t be able to get off of the piece of paper.
Even though you might catch a lot of them on these contraptions, you will not get rid of the root of the problem. To completely get rid of cockroaches, you might need to purchase cockroach traps with poison that will slowly kill the insect when it eats it. These traps are effective as they exterminate the whole colony.
If you are really concerned about an infestation, you might need to contact your local pest control, which will send a professional to deal with your problem. They will have specific insecticides that are highly poisonous. Usually, it might take from 2 to 6 hours for your house to get fully cleaned. It is recommended to leave the place for a day so you don’t breathe in the harmful toxins.
FAQ on Different Types of Cockroaches
If you’re not a specialist, it might be hard for you to differentiate between several kinds of roaches, and it is natural to have questions regarding this problem. Here are the most common questions people ask with regards to wood roaches.
Are wood roaches the same as cockroaches?
No. Wood roaches are a different species of roaches that are not common inside our houses. They are smaller in size and have light-brown coloring. Tree roaches prefer to feed on rotten wood and live only in highly humid places.
Do wood roaches infest homes?
Wood roaches are a rare sight in the house. They don’t infest human homes, as there is nothing for them to feed on and the environment of our spaces is not optimal for them to breed in. They might get in during the spring, but it is easy to get rid of them.
What attracts wood roaches?
Wood cockroaches are attracted to humid, warm places which contain their main source of food: decaying trees. They lay their eggs in tree stumps or fallen old plants that have been around in the forest for a long time.
Why are wood roaches in my house?
Wood roaches accidentally enter the house by being carried inside or attracted to light. Don’t be afraid, they are completely harmless. You can simply catch them and throw them out near the woods. In the spring, they can get in if it is warm inside.
What does a wood roach look like?
A wood roach is a small insect that barely reaches 1 inch. It has wings and light-brown coloring. You can meet them near decaying trees in nature.
Don’t Make Friends With Roaches
Roaches are insects that invaded almost every continent on our planet. Despite them being gross-looking, some are actually not that harmful. You should be aware of the common differences between wood roaches and house cockroaches to know which one you are dealing with. This way, you can always be ready to take important steps to eliminate the problem.
Have you ever encountered wood roaches in your house? What measures do you take against cockroaches? Please, share your opinion with us in the comments below.
Their habitat should be humid (Scott Horn USDA Forest Service, Athens, GA): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232663849_Life_History_and_Habitat_Associations_of_the_Broad_Wood_Cockroach_Parcoblatta_lata_Blattaria_Blattellidae_and_Other_Native_Cockroaches_in_the_Coastal_Plain_of_South_Carolina
Cockroaches also produce allergens (J H van Wijnen, Arnoud P Verhoeff GGD Amsterdam, D. K. F. Mulder-Folkerts, H. J. H. Brachel): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/14030004_Cockroach_allergen_in_house_dust
Cockroaches are already in your house (By Blake Layton and Jerome Goddard, Mississippi State University): http://extension.msstate.edu/publications/control-cockroaches-and-around-your-home
We all want our home to be a place that everyone finds comfortable and welcoming. Everyone, that is, except roaches. These small and wily creatures can easily intrude into any residential or business property and quickly start an infestation that is a mess to deal with. While it is disgusting to even think about, few of us will be too surprised or overly shocked to find these pests lurking in the kitchen, but where do roaches come from in the bathroom? Also, what does one have to do to get rid of the sickening freeloaders? Read on to find out!
[wpsm_titlebox title=”Where Do Roaches Come From in the Bathroom?” style=”main”] There are a few places that roaches could be coming from in the bathroom. One possibility is that they are coming in through cracks and crevices in the walls or around the pipes. Another possibility is that they are coming up through the drain. [/wpsm_titlebox]
Guide to Fighting Roaches in Your Bathroom: Where to Find and How to Stop
The prospect of finding roaches in a bathroom at night is horrifying. Here are the reasons why they could be there:
Bathrooms are a great living space for cockroaches – hot, wet, and nourishing.
Cockroaches came through ventilation vents from your neighbors.
Why are there cockroaches in my bathroom?
When you know what it is that cockroaches find so irresistibly attractive inside your house, you will be able to take timely steps to remove those attractions and avoid an infestation entirely, sparing yourself the need to use potentially dangerous pesticides to treat the problem radically.
Why do cockroaches migrate indoors?
The prime factor driving cockroaches to enter residential buildings is their quest to find food, water, and refuge. Let us look at all three attractions a little closer:
Food
The omnivorous creatures that they are, American cockroaches will gladly devour almost anything they can find inside your house – from breadcrumbs and pizza leftovers to soap, toothpaste, glue, and (brace yourself for this one) animal waste.
Considering this, not just your kitchen and cupboards can be a perfect shopping lane for these irritating pests, but so is your bathroom and, basically, any other space within your house.
Water
While they can do just well without eating anything for extended periods, roaches cannot survive without water for longer than seven days. Clean or dirty, your home will only appeal to cockroaches if they can find water in it. From this perspective, any space inside the house where there is easy access to water, like the kitchen, the basement, or the bathroom, might be more roach-friendly than other rooms.
That said, it does not mean the tiny creeps will not try to explore other parts of your home, especially when their number increases and the competition pushes them to go looking for new sources of food/water.
Hiding places
Another reason why roaches might choose to invade your home is to create perfect conditions for breeding. They prefer to do so in warm, humid, poorly ventilated places hard for humans to reach. The most popular cockroach hideouts include areas like kitchen cupboards, space around your kitchen sink or beneath the fridge, floor drains, and around water heaters.
How do roaches enter bathrooms?
The question homeowners ask most frequently is: “why are there cockroaches in my shower?” Cockroaches enter bathrooms by climbing up the drains, seeking openings in the baseboards, sneaking through cracked pipes, and slipping under doors and via plumbing and electric gaps in walls. In addition, roaches may travel to this room from other areas around the house and even from outside.
Roaches find bathrooms attractive for a variety of reasons. Firstly, there is plenty of water to drink, which is the number one requirement for the survival of the cockroach population. Secondly, the bathroom tends to stay dark a lot and has many nooks for these pests to hide in from anything that presents itself as a threat. A steamy, moist, and warm environment from the shower is also ideal for roaches to breed.
Finally, whatever they say, the bathroom is as good a feeding spot as any, so roaches will not have a hard time finding something to nibble on here. A potential bathroom-restricted diet for cockroaches may include toothpaste, used sanitation items in the trash bin, soap, toilet paper, and skincare products with natural ingredients such as honey, chocolate, or mud.
How to prevent roaches from entering bathrooms?
If you are informed about how cockroaches come to your bathroom, you will be better equipped to deal with the problem at its earliest stages and cut the intrusion before a full-fledged infestation begins.
Ideally, to find the most efficient way to control the nasty pests, you will have to know the biology, behavioral patterns, and preferences of a specific species invading your home. However, that would require you to catch one and take it to an entomologist, which is quite a hassle.
Unless the invasion has gone too far (in which case you will have no other option than to call professional exterminators), you can make do with the following universal recommendations. All of them are geared towards making food and water sources inaccessible to roaches and giving them no shelter within your walls.
So, when looking for practical tips on how to get rid of cockroaches in the bathroom, here are some you can start using right away:
Remove sources of food. Starch-based soap bars, skin products, toilet paper, trash, and even a brush with your hair on it – all can be excellent sources of food for roaches. Place any organic bathroom products in tightly closed containers for safekeeping.
Eradicate sources of water/excess humidity. Sweep and mop the floor in your bathroom after each use, and make sure to use a bathroom fan to vent the room properly after taking a steamy bath or shower. Also, hang your mat up to dry well before returning it to the bathroom.
Eliminate their hiding and entering spots. Deal with leaky pipes, clogged drains, gaps in the plumbing, cracked baseboards, and broken insulation between the piping and walls.
Clean your bathroom. De-clutter the space by getting rid of unnecessary items like empty boxes and wrappings, stacks of magazines, old toothbrushes, etc. The less messy your bathroom is, the less likely it is to invite unwelcome guests in the form of roaches.
Modernize your bathroom sink with a water trap. The one reason why roaches cannot get in through modern toilets is that they are designed with a water trap that makes it impossible for water, smells, and insects to get in from the sewer. Consider installing a P, J, U, or S-bent water trap on your bathroom sink, as well, to deter cockroaches and lower the possibility of clogging.
Roaches can spread easily and quickly around your house. If they do not feel welcome inside your bathroom anymore, they will likely start looking for other places to crash for a while until you drop your guard again and let them squeeze back into the warm, dark, and humid heaven that is your bathroom.
So, when dealing with a cockroach problem in the bathroom, it would be wise to treat the entire house to ensure that small rogues have no room to hide. Luckily, most of the recommendations mentioned above apply here as well.
FAQ
Spotting a cockroach in the bathroom during your morning shower or, worse, stepping on one with your bare feet at night can be an experience that causes one to look for practical pest control tips. This FAQ section answers the main questions regarding cockroaches, their control, and elimination.
How do I keep roaches out of my bathroom?
Sufficient information on the subject is available in the main section of this post, so here is just a quick rundown on the main recommendations:
Take away possible sources of food and water.
Fix issues with your leaking pipes and faucets.
Use bathroom fans to remove excessive humidity and heat after taking a shower.
Seal any cracks and holes where electrical and plumbing installations come in through the walls.
Can cockroaches come up through the toilet?
While it is unlikely, considering that modern plumbing is built to keep most sewer pests out, some of the older toilet models can serve as an entry point for bathroom cockroaches. It is also true for toilets whose water traps have dried due to infrequent exploitation.
Do roaches come out of shower drains?
Cockroaches can easily squeeze through the tiniest openings, so drains and pipes connected directly to the sewage serve as excellent entry points to your shower or bath drain, kitchen and bathroom sink, and even toilet.
Do cockroaches come from sewers?
Yes, roaches are opportunistic and intrusive pests that feel most comfortable in the sewage system. As a result, it is possible for cockroaches from the sewage system to enter your house.
Better to Prevent Infestation From Happening
Now that you know which tricks roaches use to make their way into your home and bathroom, you can take a proactive approach to avert the infestation. And if you are past preventing, this guide also contains some excellent extermination pointers from pest control professionals.
Have you ever had a roach problem in your house and, more specifically, your bathroom? What caused it? What did you do to get rid of the invasive insects? Feel free to ask questions in the comments below and share this information with your friends!
With a large amount of produced food, it is sometimes hard to keep an eye out for bugs. Does coffee have roaches? What about other food products? Unfortunately, massive production can lead to such cases that there might be actual bugs ground up in our food. Nevertheless, modern techniques allow people to avoid such things from happening in the majority of cases.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”Does Coffee Have Roaches?” style=”main”] It depends on where the coffee beans are sourced from and how they are processed. However, it is generally unlikely that coffee beans would contain roaches, as these pests are not typically found in agricultural products. [/wpsm_titlebox]
Cockroaches Aren’t Just Hiding Under Your Fridge
Are there cockroaches in coffee? Yes, there are. But here is why you shouldn’t be concerned:
Ground coffee contains no more than 4-6% of cockroaches in it.
Coffee beans are washed using scalding hot water to prevent disease.
Ground cockroaches do not have any taste or smell.
Are there bugs in our food?
Insects have been around for so long, and currently, they are our main rivals when it comes to the dominance on Earth. They’ve adapted to live along with humans and now make the best out of it. You certainly know about pests that invade our houses and just regular invertebrates that share our space.
When it comes to bugs in food, it is important to understand where they are coming from. The most common problem is products going bad, which attracts pests like cockroaches and maggots. These insects should be avoided at all costs, as they can transmit diseases dangerous to people.
Your best choice is to always pay attention to the expiration dates on your food products and dispose of anything that is past its expiration date. Keep your house clean, and don’t let the garbage stay out for too long, as it can attract unwelcome neighbors. In big facilities, it might be hard to keep all of the parts clean and bug-free.
That is why our food is allowed to have a certain percentage of bugs in it. They can accidentally fall on the production line, get into the boxes, etc.
Edible insects are also a new topic that is largely discussed. Even though they are considered to be a good source of protein, it is still an unexplored field that can cause potential troubles. There are certain species that have been eaten in many cultures for a very long time, but it is still better to avoid eating bugs if you are unsure if your body can handle it.
Does coffee have roaches?
You might be wondering, if cockroaches are such an invasive pest, then where they can appear other than in dark corners of your house. Well, there actually might be cockroaches in coffee that you drink from your local brewery. Don’t get scared: they are ground up with the coffee beans if the mixture gets processed in the factory.
In addition, FDA has approved 4% to 6% of bugs in the ground foods, and as long as it doesn’t go above this number, you are safe to consume this product.
Roaches are the kind of insects that can get everywhere, and they will feel comfortable in any place. Many people are afraid of encountering pests in their houses, but unfortunately, it can be hard to avoid them. In any case, you will know instantly if there are any cockroaches in your house.
If you store your coffee properly, you won’t have any problems with infestation. Sticking to regular cleaning and sealing your foods will help you deal with any insects that can potentially be in your house.
Where do they come from?
Usually, coffee roaches appear in big factories that make pre-ground coffee. When large quantities of food products, such as coffee beans, are kept in one place, it will definitely attract a lot of cockroaches.
They end up there looking for food and a place to hide, and it is almost impossible to prevent them from getting in. Because of that, they are being processed together with the beans and turn into the grounded coffee we are used to drinking every day.
Of course, there won’t be a big amount of them in your drink because common sanitary measures prevent the cockroach infestations from getting out of hand. The beans go through hot water before being ground up, so even if some cockroaches got in, you shouldn’t worry about your health being affected.
Cockroaches hide in tight, dark spaces among coffee beans and usually don’t have any interest in them, but mostly in what surrounds them. These insects are highly invasive, which is why there are a lot of rules and sanitary measures that big facilities have to follow. You can be sure that companies stick to these rules so they won’t be fined.
Should I be scared?
It might sound scary that there is a real possibility of having cockroaches in your coffee, but, in reality, they don’t bring any harm to you. Of course, if you are allergic to them or just don’t want to encounter these remains in your drink, you can choose to find a brewery that grinds their beans in front of the customers.
Processed roaches won’t have any taste, and they cannot be noticed in the coffee powder. Moreover, most people don’t even know about this fact unless they read about it somewhere on the internet.
Live cockroaches, unfortunately, can pose a threat. They infest houses and create an environment that can potentially harm children with breathing problems, while their excrements can possibly attract more pests. The colonies can hide in tight places that are hard to reach, and in those cases, it is better to contact your local pest control.
Some of the pesticides that you can find online are harmful both to the environment and your health, which is why you should leave the problem to the professionals.
FAQ on Coffee & Cockroaches
Cockroaches are disturbing creatures that invade our spaces and feast upon our food. Thus, it is only natural for people to have questions about these pests, especially if there is a chance that our food might contain them.
Does coffee attract cockroaches?
No, coffee doesn’t attract cockroaches. They like big amounts of food that can potentially go bad, which is the way they end up among piles of coffee beans.
Are there bugs in the coffee?
There is a small number of bugs in ground-up coffee, but only about 4%. This percentage is always controlled by the manufacturer to prevent the consumers from being harmed.
What foods can contain roaches?
Roaches prefer energy-dense, rotten food. They go out at night to find any leftovers you might have in your house. They can also be attracted to trash cans and unwashed dishes.
Does caffeine have bugs in it?
No. Caffeine is a chemical substance that cannot be affected by insects in any way. Coffee does contain an established amount of caffeine, but bugs do not interact with this compound.
Do coffee beans have cockroaches?
Coffee beans can occasionally have roaches in them if they are not stored properly. Big amounts of products attract cockroaches, so it is better to always have your coffee beans in tightly sealed packages.
Make Sure to Check Your Products
Does ground coffee have cockroaches? Unfortunately, it does. Nevertheless, you should not panic because FDA wouldn’t have allowed something potentially harmful into mass consumption. The percentage of roaches in your coffee is fairly small. What you do have to be concerned about is live cockroaches from being anywhere near your food.
Cockroaches are a problem that is hard to control, so it is better to prevent them from entering your house rather than dealing with them when you have an infestation.
Are you concerned that your coffee is likely to have roaches in it? In light of this information, will you stop drinking ground coffee and grind the coffee beans yourself? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
That can cause potential troubles (Miklos Mezes, Szent István University): https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329096880_Food_safety_aspect_of_insects_A_review
Sticking to regular cleaning (New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City Housing Authority, New York, New York, USA): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2721864/
Can pose a threat (Department of Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, University of Gondar Hospital Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4909895/
While there are many ways to get rid of cockroaches, it’s better to prevent their invasion before it happens. One of the methods to do it is to answer: what smell do cockroaches hate? If they hate it but you rather like it, it will be an efficient and a pleasant way to keep your household roach-free.
With the list of smells to use against them, you feel armed and prepared. So, here is something about smells these little insects detest, and also how to apply them right. Now, prepare your nostrils: we proceed to a real fragrance of a text.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”What Smells Do Cockroaches Hate?” style=”main”] There are a variety of smells that cockroaches hate:
Citrus,
Eucalyptus,
Lavender,
Peppermint,
Cinnamon.
[/wpsm_titlebox]
Cockroach Smells Guide
If you want to keep cockroaches away with aromatic substances, you need to:
Choose among the scents roaches hate.
Apply it where they may be.
Do it for a long time so they form a strong behavioral pattern to avoid your territory.
Easily said, but there are always details to which we proceed.
Benefits of using smells to repel roaches
There are various ways to get rid of cockroaches: gel baits, baking soda or borax mixtures, or calling pest control services. Still, keeping them away with smells seems one of the most attractive options. Why? Because there are some benefits about it:
You don’t have to deal with the dead ones. In fact, you don’t even have to kill them at all.
You don’t put your kids or pets at risk.
Most smells that repel roaches are rather pleasant for humans.
Knowing this, you can build an efficient method of keeping roaches out of your household. Just make sure the smell is strong enough for them to feel it and not too strong for your family and especially pets to tolerate it.
There are other conveniences about using smells as roach repellents:
Easy to apply. You don’t have to search where roached prefer to dwell. The smell should be in the air, that’s it.
May be pleasant for humans. Tastes differ, of course, but most smells from the list below are usually conceived as “pleasant” rather than “disgusting” (though for each of them, there are persons who hate it).
Scents that roaches hate
Oh, get ready: it will be a long list. Even mentioning all the scents that repel roaches would be quite a job. So let’s focus on those that are probably among your household items or are easy to buy and apply.
Citrus fruits
Lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, and other citrus fruits are universally loved by humans. Not so much by insects. Any of these smells is repelling cockroaches… but only in a certain concentration. You may remember that lemon, lime, or orange peels often appear in your garbage bin, and not that it repels all the cockroaches immediately.
So, using them must be a little harder. You can just place some slices of fresh lemon and lime in locations where you spot roaches the most often or you see most of their feces and traces. This may be efficient enough.
To make sure, I’d recommend also spraying around some juice (if it’s concentrated, you don’t need to dilute it) where they roam. Repeat the procedure two or three times, after a day or two.
After you succeed, it would be great to add a bit of lemon juice to the water you use for cleaning your floors. This will keep the smell unnoticeable (or pleasantly present in the background) for humans, nut for cockroaches, should they explore the chance to return, it’s a sign of danger still present.
Yet the result is not granted. Some populations may be well accustomed to these smells because they often deal with citrus smells in waste. If so, you better try another smell for them, which may be just as pleasant for you: for example, mint.
Mint
Mint (in our case, peppermint) is a classical flavor for almost everything that should be pleasant, from tea and lemonade to menthol cigarettes and shisha. No, one mint tea party or hookah session will not be enough. Mint should be applied differently if you want to spoil someone’s life with it. Growing mint in your courtyard will be a good way to repel them even outside your house.
As for indoor use, if the roaches are already in, you can use it as an oil, diluted with water, the same way as you do with other essential oils.
Eucalyptus
Koalas may adore it. But roaches, being nowhere as cute, detest this Australian scent. So, using eucalyptus essential oil is a good idea to keep them away. This tree works as a guard even if it’s made small and put into a small bottle of essential oil.
It’s recommended to apply the oil not all-around your household but mostly where you locate the roaches’ nest or where they frequent the most. In the kitchen, at your garbage bin, or in the closet where you store food. It’s better to remove all the food before applying it, of course.
The recommended ratio is 3 oz of water and 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. Then spray this mixture around the infested area. If you keep seeing cockroaches or their traces in a day or two, you better reapply it. Repeat until they’re gone.
The problem is that eucalyptus smell is not as universally loved by humans as, say, mint or citric scents. If you or some of your family members dislikes it, you better try something else, which may be just as efficient against insects. And must be much easier to grow, should you ever want a live plant instead of processed oils. For example, lavender.
Lavender
Lavender oil for roaches is a well-known repellent. But there are some populations resistant to it; maybe they even sort of like it. If it’s the case with your uninvited guests, you’ll have to find another aromatic repellent for them.
If you want to try it, the best way of using it is spraying. Spray a little of it where roaches often appear: on their roads or near the nest. If your population is sensitive to it, it will quickly react and call the movers to find a new street address. If not… Then you’re gonna need a bigger bottle.
And, by the way, living lavender will also be great for keeping roaches away around your house. So some plants in your courtyard may work as a sort of barbed wire for cockroaches.
Cedar
But if you judge by the touch, cedar (as a conifer) feels much more like barbed wire with its sharp shoots. So is its sharp aroma, famous enough to be also produced as an essential oil. Growing a natural cedar (no matter which kind) in your yard is a long work, it takes decades. So we’re left with essential oil, which isn’t hard to find.
The natural cedar fragrance is quite strong and even amplified in essential oil. So I’d recommend diluting it before using. It’s not as sweet as lavender, and you’ll probably prefer it not so strong.
Tea tree
There are some species collectively known as “tea tree,” and the scent they produce is really that of tea (though it’s a different plant altogether). Some say it helps with the sort of exorcising you need. Others, though, argue that the efficiency of this essential oil (in what other form are we supposed to use it?) is, to say the least, doubtable. The deterring effect is very low if any.
Yet the greatest thing about these oils is that they fill your household with aromas. Driving the cockroaches away will be just a side effect. So, if you just like its scent around, you may also hope it helps against insects.
Cypress
Hello, is your name Dr. Greenthumb? If not, I won’t recommend you growing real cypresses around your house. Especially if you’re not going to wait 30-40 years for these trees to reach their height. Cypress essential oil, though, it just what you need if you want to try.
Though its success is not universally proven, there are reports that it helps to drive roaches away. And I wouldn’t dismiss these reports, given how diverse roach populations and breeds are. Some may really be sensitive to cypress oil. The method of using it is generic: mix it with water and spray where you have spotted them.
By the way, if a thought of weed just crossed your mind… just don’t. Not only does weed itself just attract cockroaches, no matter how thick the smoke. But if you abuse it, you may one day slide into the lifestyle that roaches adore, with the mess in your room, dishes unwashed, bed unmade, and so on. Not that I mind it as a recreation, but it’s another reason to keep roaches away rather than a tool for that.
How to use smells to repel cockroaches
As most of these smells above are floral, it gives us some options in terms of how to use them – mostly the choice is between natural and processed forms. What do roaches hate the most? That’s the first thing for you to learn by trial and error. Then find your method of applying what you’ve chosen.
Plant natural plants
With plants like lavender, it makes sense to have them live in your courtyard or even an apartment (if you are into flower growing). This is more than just eco: this provides a pleasant look along with a good smell. Of course, plants require some care, but it’s fun, unlike taking care of cockroaches.
Choose essential oils
Essential oils are the form in which most of these smells are available, especially tree aromas. You can buy cypress, cedar, eucalyptus, or other essential oils, so you don’t have to grow a real eucalyptus or cypress tree in your courtyard. If it can ever grow there.
These oils can provide what you need – a strong smell carried by the essence of the tree, preserved by specially crafted oils that keep these fluid substances controllable. A small bottle of essential oil can contain enough smell to fill a large house with it multiple times.
Concentrated juices
When it comes to lemon or lime juice, they are better when fresh, but only for cocktails. Unless you’re seriously going to treat your roaches with a sort of daiquiri or mojito, you don’t need it freshly squeezed. It’s just easier to buy it concentrated.
Dilute before applying
Why are essential oils called essential? Because they are essential, that is, highly concentrated. The smell they provide is, yes, strong enough to repel cockroaches. But it may as well repel you and your family. So to minimize it, you can do the following:
Dilute it with water. Usually, it will take more water and a little oil (like 3 oz and 10 drops). If the smell is still felt, it’s okay. It works fine with, say, eucalyptus oil, and is said to work well with cypress or cedar oils.
Dilute it with a mixture of water and vinegar. This recipe is said to work with tea tree oil (though you may try it in other forms because its efficiency is questionable).
If you want it to act faster, you may use higher concentration. But usually, there’s no need to.
Spray it around
Not all around, of course. Apply it the same way that you do with various poisons. Take some time to spot where cockroaches in your household prefer to appear and where they are seen the most frequently. It’s great if you find the nest, but if you just uncover their roads, that’s fine too.
Then spray a little oil, juice, or whatever you choose down at these roads or spots. This is where they will surely feel that intolerable smell and seriously think of moving somewhere else. Isn’t that what you want?
Spraying has some advantages:
Easy to apply;
The smell stays for some time, making it impossible for the roaches to dismiss;
Can be applied where you cannot put a tray (including vertical surfaces);
Requires no extra liquid.
Finding a spray bottle (if your oil didn’t come with it somehow) is no big issue. As you spray the liquid around, the concentration of it remains high, and the area you can apply it to is also larger. Mind the surface you spray it onto: for example, wood or cardboard can absorb the smell. And when it comes to repelling roaches, it’s just for the better.
Alternatives
As you read this, you may think using scents to repel cockroaches is the best method. No, in fact, it’s just the most pleasant one. It doesn’t require dealing with the dead or using lethal poison (if your moral codex goes that far).
But if it doesn’t help, you’ll have to switch to gel baits, borax or baking soda with sugar, and other WMD for roaches. The good thing is that you haven’t wasted the money anyway: a good scent is always useful.
FAQ
To concentrate the knowledge like a juice, I address some questions raised the most frequently by the idea of exorcising these infernal creatures with smells.
What smell do cockroaches hate the most?
What smells repel cockroaches depends on the population. Various populations may have different preferences about both the smells they love and those they detest. Among those listed above, you’ll need to find your own aromatic weapon, and it may take more than one try.
What are cockroaches afraid of?
It differs, but mostly it’s light (that’s why you mostly see them in the night), cleanliness (which means hunger and thirst for them), and certain smells. Again, it may be very individual for various populations, so you need to try your approach. If a certain smell doesn’t deter them, try another.
What smell do roaches love?
There is nothing special about what they love to smell: sugar, honey, cheese, meat – well, I’m in it too! But it means these smells should not prevail in your kitchen if you don’t want to invite these little creatures. Instead, override these with those they hate.
Do dead cockroaches attract more?
Yes, and that’s because of another smell they adore. This time, it’s oleic acid which smells quite strongly. Roaches can consume their dead as well (no fava beans and chianti required), and yes, a dead body attracts others. That’s how poisons work, by the way: one poisoned roach kills more.
My Neighbor Cocoro / Smelled Away
If it’s not the most efficient way to get rid of roaches, it’s arguably the most pleasant. Among what smells keep roaches away there’s one you’re going to enjoy; just pick it and watch them leave. Just be consistent and continue this aroma practice even after you haven’t seen a single one for a while.
Have you ever tried to smell your neighbors away? Did you succeed? What smell would you prefer to use for this purpose? And could it be that it will become your new habit to keep this aroma around? Welcome to the comments, let’s speak aromas!
While usually cockroaches prefer to be where the food is (in kitchens or closets), sometimes their kingdom expands further. How to prevent cockroaches in bedroom from appearing there? The most logical answer is to get rid of them in your entire household. But while this lengthy process lasts, you may want to protect your sleep additionally.
And there are some measures you can take to keep bed roaches out. These methods will let you relax a bit while in the rest of your house this war goes on. Just don’t settle for it.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”How to Prevent Cockroaches in Bedroom?” style=”main”] The best way to prevent cockroaches in your bedroom is to keep your room clean and free of food and water sources that they can find. Make sure to vacuum and sweep regularly, and keep your food in sealed containers. You can also try using roach traps or baits to help control the population. [/wpsm_titlebox]
Anti-Cockroach in Bedroom Guide
In short, this is what to do:
Leave no food or other attraction.
Keep it isolated.
Use aromas or other deterrents.
Apply generic measures for extinguishing roaches if necessary.
Of course, you hope you can just keep them away. But it may take more than closed doors and canceled breakfasts in bed.
How roaches get into bedroom and why?
Everybody who’s had any experience with cockroaches knows: they prefer to live where there’s food, water, and darkness. That’s why they are mostly found in kitchens and closets, rarely venturing outside of them. But if they have made it to your bedroom, it may mean one of the following things:
There are too many cockroaches. So they feel too tight in the kitchen.
You have something attractive for them in your bedroom. Like food remains, humidity, or darkness. A roach on bed may be in search of bread drops you left after your breakfast.
You just don’t close your doors. Cockroaches’ nocturnal lifestyle enables them to go there while they sleep. And this is the most unpleasant thing.
This may result in cockroaches biting you. Roaches are not likely to bite a living human, rather to flee, but bed roaches deal with sleeping humans, which changes the situation.
Signs of roaches in your bedroom
The signs that cockroaches are in your bedroom are quite generic:
You see a roach. If there’s one to be seen, there must be at least a dozen you missed.
Roach droppings. They leave feces on the floor, and these dark dots are hard to ignore.
Dead roaches. Especially if you have occasionally applied some poison.
Sudden itch in your skin that you leave exposed (especially fingers and face). It might be other insects as well, but if you know for sure cockroaches are in your house, it’s a reason to take a closer look.
As for that “cockroach-in-my-room-can’t-sleep” feeling, this may also indicate something. But it can last even after they’re actually gone, returning as flashbacks. One more reason to eradicate them as quickly as possible.
How to prevent them from going into your bedroom
There are multiple methods of keeping them away. What you need to acknowledge first is that extinguishing roaches in your entire household and keeping them out of your bedroom are two different jobs. While you conduct your anti-roach campaign, they still appear here and there, and it will take time for them to perish.
In your bedroom, you need results quickly, as sleep is your primary need, while the kitchen can wait. So in your kitchen or corridor, you better wage war on them, but your bedroom should be the territory of peace they don’t even dare to enter.
How do you achieve that? Here’s some recommendations:
Keep the doors to your bedroom closed. Ventilation doesn’t require opening them.
Weather-seal your windows.
Check the cracks on the walls and along the baseboards. Seal each one you detect.
Examine the room to see if there’s any left. If you discover a nest there, things will necessarily get dirty, as you’ll have to apply the same methods (gel baits, borax, or other stuff) as elsewhere. But it’s rarely the case.
Pay more attention to your closet. They may hide in dark places, including drawers, linen piles, pockets of your clothes, and so on.
Give up eating in bed or near it. Drops on the floor are an invitation for roaches to enter.
Use aromas known as cockroach deterrents. There is an entire list of them, including citrus fruit, mint, thyme, as well as cedar, cypress, or peppermint oils. You need to select the one that you prefer because it’s you who’ll supposedly sleep there. Maybe you’ll get used to it enough to retain the habit even after the cockroaches are gone.
Keep the room clean all the time you conduct your roach hunt.
All these measures, though, only make sense if in the meantime you do what it takes to extinguish these roaches all over your household. Place gel baits where they like to roam. Use borax or baking soda with sugar to poison them. Apply methods that have proven efficient against roaches.
Review your eating habits to avoid inviting cockroaches by offering them a rich charity menu of food remains. Pay attention even to one roach you notice. Keep your borax prepared to apply it as soon as you spot this insect at night.
And – last but not least – after you win, don’t let them return. This means that you should not only keep your bedroom clean and protected. Knowing how to get rid of roaches in room means starting in your kitchen. So take care of the waste you remove and the clothes you wash in public services, the products you buy and the cleanliness of your kitchen.
FAQ on Cockroaches in Bedroom Prevention
The essentials of roach prevention need to be addressed directly. There may be questions beyond how to keep roaches out of your room; let’s get to them.
What attracts roaches to your bedroom?
Mostly, that is something to eat: food drops, for example, if you enjoy breakfasts in bed or nighttime snacks. It’s also your lack of attention that makes them feel safe. Finally, they may find it attractive to bite humans in their sleep.
What smells keep roaches away?
There is a whole array of such smells, like peppermint, cedarwood, or cypress oil. They also detest citronella, mint, thyme, basil, or citrus fruit. You can apply any of them in your bedroom; just don’t forget that it should feel good to you.
Why are there suddenly so many cockroaches in my house?
They might have been attracted by lots of waste and food remains, humidity, and places to hide. And there are never suddenly many of them: colonies take time to grow. They must have hidden well. Another reason for you to pay more attention the next time.
Bedroom Is a Part of Your House
So, the most correct answer to how to keep roaches out of your bedroom is to keep them out of your house. But while you de-roach your entire household, you can make this process a little faster in your bedroom, to get more quality sleep time while you’re busy fighting them. Keep it clean, use smells, and close the door as soon as you get in.
Have you ever had this unpleasant experience? How did you manage to get them roaches out? What did you use on them, and did they ever dare to return? Share your success story with us in the comments if you please!
Living with cockroaches is not much of a pleasure. We know you know about gel traps, chemicals, pest control, and stuff. But, first, it will take time for these measures to take effect. Second, it may not be your place where you have to spend a night or several with these creatures. There’s a more specific problem: how to keep cockroaches away at night.
And there are some tricks that will prevent them from crawling on your skin. No matter if it’s your place where you’re free to act, or you’re renting it and thus have limited possibilities. Now, let’s take a closer look at distracting them from your bed and (as a maximum) getting rid of them completely.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”How to Keep Cockroaches Away at Night?” style=”main”] You can keep cockroaches away at night by taking some simple precautions:
Most importantly, don’t leave food or water out overnight. Make sure that your food is properly sealed and stored away.
Keep your counters and floors clean.
Take out the trash regularly.
[/wpsm_titlebox]
Guide on the Nights Without Roaches
The problem of how to prevent cockroaches in bedroom is a part of a larger problem, but if it’s the bedroom that you’re concerned with, there are two ways of solving the problem:
Exterminating the roaches that are already there;
Repelling those that may enter.
There are methods for both stages, and while we assume the rest of the house remains infested, it impacts what we should do to let no cockroach on the bed wake you up.
Why roaches come to your house?
Usually, roaches are attracted by three things: food, water, and safety (the latter means darkness and places where humans rarely look). All three can be found mostly in kitchens and closets, but bedrooms also have a lot to offer. Did you know, for example, that cockroaches can consume dead skin cells that are abundant in bedrooms and in beds?
As for safety, they can easily hide in linen piles and in wardrobes. Let alone cracks in the floor or in the walls.
Chances are even higher if you have a habit of nighttime snacks. If it’s hot and you’re sweating, it’s the humidity roaches adore too. And if you (or the building owners) rarely vacuum your bedroom, the chances grow even higher. It also depends on the climate: in hot latitudes, roaches are likelier to find what they want in the bedroom.
So, now we focus on the bedroom. We assume that it’s either your household that’s already getting the overall treatment (at least, it’s scheduled), or you’re renting it and have neither possibility nor intention to de-roach the entire property. Otherwise, the problem would cover the entire household, won’t it? But if now you only want a roach-free bedroom, let’s focus on it.
Signs that you probably have a roach problem
There are several signs that cockroaches are around. The most obvious are the following:
You see roaches. Or feel them if it happens in the dark of the night;
You feel the roach smell. Once you’ve felt it, you’ll never forget it;
You observe roach feces or smear marks;
You find roach oothecas – egg capsules. Once you see it, you know it;
You find shed roach skin.
Any of these signs is enough to take the danger of roaches seriously. In your household, you probably spot these signs in your kitchen first, so you are prepared to meet them in other places, like a bedroom. But if it’s a rented place, it may really take you by surprise.
How to sleep in a room with cockroaches
So, the bedroom with roaches is now a given. Regardless of how you got there, it’s an immediate problem to solve. So, focus on getting roaches away from this room.
Find their nests in the room and remove them. Not only do cockroaches sleep in wardrobes and drawers: they can be under the bed or the wardrobe, in the cracks in walls, in window frames. Their traces will tell you where to search for the nearest colony. As you find it, use the most efficient way to kill it. Poisons, household products like borax and baking soda, or gel traps are great. But you can also physically kill as many of them as you reach.
Use gel traps or sugar with borax/soda, even after you’ve destroyed the nests. These traps, in addition, will distract them from a bed where your body might otherwise attract them. If you’re going to a place where the chance of meeting roaches is above zero, you may place a tube or two of specialized gel in your luggage.
Fix all the cracks in the floor and the walls. You may need permission from the host if it’s not your property.
Keep the doors and the windows shut tightly as you sleep. Of course, it’s not always possible, especially in hot, humid areas.
Remove food and water from your room. Even if you often enjoy a snack in the nighttime, you better leave your room and go to the kitchen or even outside for this ritual.
Use repelling scents. Again, if they are very aggressive, you better consult the host; otherwise, your tourist rating may suffer.
When it comes to scents, it’s recommended to use those well-tried. For example, mint and citrus fruit scents are well-known for their ability to keep roaches away. The concentration, though, should not be too high for you to sleep normally.
How to avoid cockroaches while sleeping
You may want to add an extra protection layer to your bed. It makes sense because luring roaches away or poisoning them takes time, and you want some good sleep as soon as possible. For this, you may do the following:
Raise it as high above the floor as possible. Though roaches are capable of climbing up vertical surfaces, the legs of the bed are often too smooth for them.
Place traps under the legs of the bed. This is the point where they can enter, so catch them there.
Move the bed from the wall, so roaches cannot use the wall to climb up to you. Keep it at least one foot away from the nearest wall or further if possible. Again, if you’re not at home, you better ask for permission to do so. It’s also a good idea to set some traps between the bed and the nearest wall.
Sleep with lights on. It depends on how prepared you are for this. It won’t always help: roaches can get accustomed to it either. But it might be worth a shot.
Spray some strong smell around before you go to sleep. It may require a special carrier if you don’t want this scent to remain there after the roaches are exorcised (or after you check out). A wooden plank or a small log will do.
If you like it exotic, get yourself a gecko. I’m not serious, but nevertheless.
With your bed protected like this, roaches won’t bother you in your sleep, even if they do crawl around on the floor all night long. Knowing how to keep roaches away from the bed will save you miles of nerves if you spend a night or two someplace where you’re not going to return and not going to bother about any permanent solution.
Last but not least: don’t be too shy to complain. If you have found the property via Airbnb or Booking, or any other site, you have a legal right to write about these roaches in your review. Maybe when the owner reads this, it will motivate them to do this job for the next guests and save them some unpleasant moments.
No matter how friendly they try to appear: no approach justifies a roach in the bedroom. If you’re lucky, you can even get a refund for this.
FAQ
All you need to know to react fast as you see even one roach. Or even assume there might be some.
Will cockroaches crawl on me at night?
Yes, a roach in bed can crawl on you. Some even have a disgusting habit of biting living humans. Most, though, just explore a big warm and potentially tasty object. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Especially if it ends up in your ear or mouth. That’s why you should prevent these interventions if you have a reason to think cucarachas are around.
Will keeping lights on keep cockroaches away?
With cockroaches’ nocturnal way of life, most of them are indeed afraid of light. But not all. When the place is overpopulated, some of them will necessarily venture out, like crusaders or conquistadors. So the light won’t stop them, like the light of Christianity didn’t save Constantinople from them.
What causes the sudden appearance of cockroaches?
It’s sudden only for us humans. In fact, it’s logical that roaches settle everywhere they find food, water, and safety. In our case, though, the reason why they appear suddenly is that nobody has mentioned them on Airbnb or Booking.com. Then you’ll have to be the first.
If I see one cockroach, are there more?
Yes, for each one you see, there are dozens or even thousands of those you don’t (unless it’s a single one, but let’s be realists). So take the most serious measures even if you only see one or two of them.
Roach-a-Bye Baby!
What I wish to you all is always sleep like a baby. No matter if roaches crawl to your property or you travel some places where they come as a free bonus to bed and breakfast. Knowing how to keep roaches away from your bed can be an easier and simpler solution if your problem is temporary.
The same applies if you have already started getting rid of roaches in your household but don’t want to tolerate them in your bedroom in the meantime.
What about your experience? Have you tried any of these methods, or maybe some other? How did they work? I’d like you to leave a comment down here and share what worked for you!
A gecko (Reptile Follower – Wayne): https://reptilefollower.com/do-geckos-eat-roaches/
Get a refund (By Brooke Rolfe for Daily Mail Australia): https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5239097/British-Airbnb-guests-outrage-host-roach-complaints.html
If one’s home is said to be one’s fortress, then one’s car is even more of that. You may allow passengers, but hardly are these small, fast runners on the list. Not only because they are unpleasant: they are more dangerous than they seem. Let’s see how to get rid of roaches in the car. And because your home isn’t constantly moving and does not contain so many mechanical and electronical parts in it, the story will be a bit different from your kitchen wars.
[wpsm_titlebox title=”How to Get Rid of Roaches in Car?” style=”main”] The best way to get rid of roaches in your car is to keep it clean. Vacuum regularly, and don’t forget to clean under the seats. You can also try roach traps, which can be placed under the seats or in other areas where roaches like to hide. [/wpsm_titlebox]
Roaches in Car Trouble Guide
As you see a cockroach in car, hardly do you think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Rather the beginning of a long campaign. Because it’s not enough to get rid of them once: you need to make sure they won’t come back tomorrow. And this requires not a single extinction campaign but a new app-roach.
Why roaches in your car might be dangerous?
I could have just pasted a fragment about damage roaches deal to your kitchen. They may make it to your food storage (though first they just explore the waste), they will leave their droppings and bode fragments, and they transmit various bacteria that can be dangerous on their own.
You know that, but in your car, roaches can also damage any vital system – simply because they are hungry, and their bodies may cause short circuits.
In addition, roaches are a sign that you do something wrong. They come as they smell some waste; they stay if they have somewhere to hide. Your car needs cleaning, and this habit of yours (even if it’s just a situation you’ve got into) can be dangerous too. They also usually come out at night, so if you spot one in the daylight, inside, it may be Joe’s Apartment sort of thing.
Finally, there is an anecdotic yet real danger that if you happen to particularly dislike these insects, spotting one of them as you drive can make you lose control. Will it result in an accident? I’d rather not check.
How to get rid of cockroaches in the car
Here are some recommendations on how to get roaches out of your car. Assume there are always more of them: if you spot one in plain sight, there must be dozens. They prefer to settle under the seats because the remains of your food are most probably there.
Gel Baits
Poisoned gel baits are a well-checked method of getting rid of cockroaches. The poison in these baits kills the insects slowly enough for them to spread the substance across their colonies. The process takes 1-3 days for a single roach and probably up to a week.
For humans and pets, it’s harmless. So if you need, you can keep using your car with gel baits working in the meantime.
Usually, it takes 5-10 gel baits for the population. Here are the places where you should put these gel baits:
Under the seats. This is where the most food remains get.
Glove compartment. A great warm place where they like to be.
Places where you have seen cockroaches. If they dare to venture out while you’re around, they probably do even more in your absence.
Other places where cockroaches are likely to have their nests are door frames and speakers. But hardly will you want to place these gel baits there.
NB. If you have applied the baits and still observe roaches in your car, try a different brand. Breeds may be sensitive to certain agents and resist others.
Borax
This is also an old versatile way of getting rid of various insects. You may use it with water and sugar or with honey because insects won’t eat the powder but will gladly consume a liquid that contains it. Yet you can just apply a lot of powder, so as the roach goes through it, the agent gets through their body cover slowly. The principles of using borax baits are the same as those for gel baits.
If you prefer to treat them with sweet poison, here are some recipes:
Mix dry borax and sweet powder. Use it on roaches’ routes. Sweetness will attract them.
Mix borax and sugar and add some water to keep the bait thick yet liquid. Place drops of it where you usually place gel baits.
Add borax to egg yolks, peanut butter, or honey.
You are already visualizing how you will clean your car after applying these sticky mixes. Relax: you will have to clean it anyway after the extinction. So these baits will not change the picture. Though, of course, you better drive less while.
Roach bombs
Also known as bug bombs, these foggers are not expensive and have proven quite efficient when it comes to insect elimination. You will have to leave your car alone for several days after using it, though, so choose the date carefully. On the other hand, are you ready to ride with roaches one more day? So, get your bomb and do the following:
Find the moment when you won’t need your car for two or three days. It will take some time.
Vacuum it thoroughly. In the process, you will deprive them roaches of their habitual food. Pay attention to child seats if you have any: there’s usually more debris. This is half the job, but not all of it.
Find a distant ventilated area where to park your car for a while. No public parking, and probably not your garage. A place at the back of your backyard will do.
Place a roach bomb (also known as a bug bomb) in the middle of your car. Then another one in the trunk.
Cover the car with plastic so it stays hermetic. The poison will remain inside for long enough to kill the roaches.
After the period of time specified in the bomb manual, wait for two or three hours. In fact, choose any time you prefer, but a bit later than specified.
Ventilate the car. Open all the windows and doors and let the poison out. It will take several hours.
Vacuum the car again. Not only are there dead roaches to remove, but the remains of the poison too. After vacuuming, clean the surfaces with sanitizer.
This experience is not among the most pleasant, so you’d rather not repeat it. So, here comes the next question: prevention.
How to prevent roaches from entering your car
A simple sign “Roaches not allowed” will not help. Roaches can’t read. What they can do is run fast and smell the food. They can also get to your car without noticing this – in clothes, home items, or boxes you transport. So, what should you do to avoid their presence?
Keep the car clean. Of course, when you’re focused on driving and traffic, you just won’t care about that small bastard. But they don’t get in on the move. They enter the car as it stands still, and you can take your measures not to assist them.
Avoid eating in the car. That’s where these small crumbs come from, and cockroach in car will find it good here. If Big Macs in the car are the necessary evil of your lifestyle, well, at least get its interior cleaned after that.
Keep away from garbage bins and drains. These are the traditional places for roaches to come to – and as well from.
Check everything you bring into your car. Clothes, linen, boxes, suitcases, everything that may have a cockroach getting in the car. You better do it away from your vehicle to make sure there isn’t one.
FAQ
If you want the most crucial questions answered briefly and then proceed to detailed instructions, here are the answers.
What is the fastest way to get rid of roaches in a car?
Chemical. Poison is the best way to get them all. You can use a bug bomb or traditional methods like borax or gel baits. It’s up to you to choose one.
What kills roaches in a vehicle?
There are many ways to kill roaches. The problem is not to kill but to extinguish them. Among all the methods, I’d recommend poisoning them. All the ways I mentioned in the previous answer imply using various types of poison.
Why do I keep finding roaches in my car?
Because they settled here. A single female might get there and lie eggs, and here’s a colony. To avoid their reintroduction, follow the rules and keep your car clean. In addition, prevent them from settling by checking everything you bring inside.
Can I bomb my car for roaches?
I hope you’re not speaking about just blowing your car to kingdom come along with unwanted guests. A roach bomb for car, though, is a good and well-checked method of extinguishing them. I described it in more detail in the relevant section.
Move It, Roach!
Knowing how to get roaches out of the car, there is one thing left to do: act. Though I doubt you really want to tolerate these small creatures in your car longer than necessary. Choose your weapon and destroy the enemies… before they deal significant damage to you and your car. Mankind has invented enough methods for you to apply to them. Probably we’ll never win this war on a global scale, but your personal mission is quite realistic.
Have you already encountered these creatures as uninvited passengers? How did you get rid of them? What method proved the most efficient? Tell us about your stories in the comments if you wish!
Texas is the ideal city for everyone who loves the warm climate with its subtropical nature and the Gulf of Mexico nearby. Unfortunately, all these natural attractions are highly appreciated by mosquitoes, beetles, and roaches. They prefer to stay close to the water, in the area of high humidity, and people who provide them with food.
Luckily for them, Houston is the most populated city in the state. This is why you have to keep this list of pest control companies in Houston somewhere close. It is better to call specialists in preventive measures than during severe infestation. You can lower down the price before, but not after the pests start to double in numbers.
5 Best Pest Control Companies in Houston
Houston is a large city with 637.4 square miles of territory. This is the biggest city in the US. It means that there are a lot of pest control services on this market. Yet, not all of them are equally good. This is why you need a trustable service that is popular among locals.
Address: 14850 Woodham Dr. Suite B-160, Houston, TX 77073
Phone: +1 281-516-8002
BBB Rating: B-
If you are looking for the best exterminators in Houston, you can call Terminix. They provide a wide range of services for an affordable price. This is an American-based company with over 500 years of history on the market. It still keeps its top place among other pest control services. They have specialists around the country. In Texas, the company has multiple offices.
Terminix prefers to hire professional entomologists and specialists in pest control from local areas since they are familiar with local specifics.
There are four offices in Houston only. Terminix has several dozens of departments around Texas. Here are the addresses of Houston-based departments:
Houston. 1304 Langham Creek Dr #312, TX 77084. This department works 24/7 non-stop. You may schedule an inspection via phone or using their website. The company works in West Houston too. The main specialization is termites. They provide a wide range of services, including the extermination of mosquitoes, bed bugs, and fleas. Residential and commercial services;
Commercial Houston. 14850 Woodham Drive Ste B-160, TX 77073. The department is open from Monday to Sunday 7 AM to 7 PM. It works on commercial cases only. You can order their services for any office in the city;
Termite and Pest Control Houston. 14900 Woodham Dr. Ste A-135, TX 77073. Department works 24/7. It provides both, residential and commercial services. Their main specialty is termites. The company serves North Houston as its main priority. They also help to exterminate rodents, mosquitoes, bed bugs, and fleas;
Termite and Pest Control Houston. 10110 W Sam Houston Pkwy S Suite 100, TX 77099. This department is open 24/7. You can call and order an inspection at any time. They provide their services for residential and commercial use. The branch works with local disinfectors who know the major problem of the Houston community. They provide treatment against rodents, termites, roaches, bed bugs, and ants, among other pests.
The price list varies on the services you want to receive. The annual package costs $600-$800 on average. You can add multiple extra services you want. Consultation is free of charge.
Address: 15510 Bammel North Houston Rd, Houston, TX 77014
Phone: +1 346-326-1571
BBB Rating: A+
Orkin is slightly smaller than Terminix. The company is still one of the biggest on the market though. You may find their services quite affordable among other Houston pest control prices. Orkin appeared on the market more than 100 years ago, in 1901.
Since that time they built a strong reputation and extended their services around the country. They offer a targeted approach to each specific case. There is a preventive service that they provide. The company has over 400 offices around the world.
Houston 876 branch. 15510 Bammel, Houston TX. Phone: 346 326 1571. The office accepts calls from residents and is open for visits from 6 AM to 12 AM. It provides services for commercial and residential use.
Apart from that Orkin works in:
Baytown,
Cypress,
North Houston,
Houston,
Magnolia,
Bellville,
Damon,
Hufsmith,
Conroe,
Brookshire,
Hempstead,
Hockley,
Kingwood,
Humble,
Prairie View,
Pinehurst,
Waller,
Tomball,
Spring.
Orkin has incredibly advanced packages. You can pick the one you really need. Based on the insects or pests that dwell in your house, you may find the best solution and cut down original prices. They start by inspecting the problem.
Once the inspection is done, you will be offered a detailed plan of treatment. If you want to order preventive disinfection you can count on eco-friendly measures. General pest control for the average 2000 sq mile house may cost you $570 per year. The main specialty of Orkin is termites, and you can order a specific plan which will cost you less. It offers free estimates.
Address: 10560 Bissonnet St Suite 190, Houston, TX 77099
Phone: 713 661 1979
BBB Rating: A-
These Houston exterminators are part of the big corporation Rentokil. They have offices around the states. You will wide range of services to offer for Houston citizens. The company was founded in 1932. They focus on the scientific approach in the work.
The district they work at covers all the area of Houston, from the Missouri City to southwest and Orange. All their specialists are locals and familiar with the climate’s specifics and the treatment that must be provided during different periods of time. All specialists are certified. They provide eco-friendly solutions for homes.
They provide services in:
League City,
The Woodlands,
Sugar Land,
Pearland,
Pasadena,
La Porte,
Lake Jackson,
Deer Park,
Beaumont,
Baytown.
The company is well-known among dwellers of Woodlands, Katy, Galveston, and Beaumont. The entire Houston Metro location is covered by Presto-X specialists. If you are looking for affordable pest control in Houston, you can try Presto-X packages for residents. Apart from that, the company accepts commercial calls. Their main specialization is mosquitoes and rodents which are widespread in the territory of the city.
To order the inspection you can call the company. Unfortunately, they don’t have the online chat. The first survey is free of charge. After that, the company analyses the situation and offers the quickest solutions to your problem. Once the treatment is done Presto X provides guarantees and proofing of successful work. You can find a 50 percent discount on their first help.
Hawx is an American company with offices around the states. It offers the top solutions to every pest problem. The company was founded in 2013. This is a relatively new business compared to other companies on the list. Still, they already proved to be highly qualified for this job. The company offers free estimates to its clients.
According to Houston pest control reviews, Hawx provides a wide range of services that are on-demand in this particular city. The company has advanced equipment and uses cutting-edge technologies. If their specialists did not remove the infestation during the visit, they will provide a free re-service. The company offers different plans for each wallet.
Departments in Houston:
Houston North. 1408 North Sam Houston Parkway East STE 180 Houston, TX 77032. Phone number 346 423 4650;
Houston South. 1000 S Loop West STE 120 Houston, TX 77054. Phone number 281 262 3053.
You can contact them through the website, their social network, or simply attend their offices. The first evaluation is free. After that, you need to discuss your plan of work. Based on the infestation level, pests, outdoors/indoors, and preferable remedies, the price varies.
You can also offer commercial service for the company, school, medical establishment, and office. The General plan costs $350 with the detailed inspection. There are quarterly and monthly plans. The cost of one visit is $50. You can contact the company for a free visit if they did not remove the infestation entirely.
Address: 10900 Brittmoore Park Drive #D, Houston, Texas 77041
Phone: 281 668 4930
BBB Rating: A-
Whether you need a Houston bug removal company or fleas or ants, you can try Bulwark Exterminating. They are local specialists and are familiar with Houston’s problems. You may find help with crickets, fleas, roaches, ants, termites, and mosquitoes. The company sends technicians to inspect the house in advance. After that, they decide which plan to offer and which solution to use.
House owners must warn about any possible allergic reaction and express major wishes. Bulwark works with eco-friendly products that pass certification and hire local professionals who are familiar with pest problems in the region.
The company has several headquarters in Texas. In Houston their office is located at:
10900 Brittmoore Park Drive #D, Houston, Texas, 77041. You can call them on the phone at 281 668 4930. The office works from Monday to Friday, from 7 AM to 9 PM. Saturday they from 8 AM to 9 PM. On Sunday they are closed.
The main specialization of the Bulwark company is three pests that are widespread in Houston. They even have specific packages for them. They are:
Mosquitoes are usually attracted by the water;
Termites that may destroy your wooden house in no time;
Cockroaches are popular in overcrowded places and can travel from one building to another.
The price is based on the complexity of the work. You can easily find the proper plan that suits your needs. On average, the minor infestation treatment during the first visit may cost you $75. It usually spread on termites and mosquitoes. The company offers to visit your apartment a second time for free if the problem is still there. They also have monthly and annual plans. Their professionals work with big corporations as well.
Common Pests in Houston
Houston is a perfect place for warmth-loving pests. They live in colonies and bother people the whole year long. If you want to order pest control in preventive measures, you have to find out the most widespread species in your area.
Termites
Termites are a major problem not only to Houston but to the whole US territory in general. They damage 1 million homes per year. Each time termites settle inside the house, the repair costs thousand dollars. If there are high chances that termites will pick your home, you have to provide preventive measures and call pest control service in advance. They spray the wood with a specific remedy so termites would not chew it.
The most common species in TX are Subterranean termites. These creatures can build nests inside the houses. They feed on the wood they found.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches are a national problem. They prefer to live near humans and eat their food. Roaches also like houses that stand close to each other, so they can crawl from one to another. The major species in Houston:
German cockroach,
American cockroach.
These insects are dangerous to human beings. Although they don’t bite, they carry diseases around. Apart from that, they leave feces everywhere.
Bed bugs
Bed bugs prefer to live in tourist hubs. They can hide behind the hotel’s sheets and travel to the houses together with a new host. They hide in any clothing. Moreover, they can survive for some time without food. Houston is relatively new to this problem, but the number of cases continues to grow. Bed bugs are not dangerous to humans. Yet, they will bite you the whole night. They are hard to catch by yourself.
Ants
Ants are hardworking creatures that might protect your yard from small insects. However, when they pass the threshold of your house, they become your enemies immediately. Similar to termites, they can chew the wood to get inside and build a nest. Apart from that, they still your food and can bite the packages they find. There are 250 different species of ants that live in TX only. Ants that can get inside your house:
Little black ants,
Ghost ants,
Fire ants,
Pharaoh ants,
Carpenter ants,
Crazy ants.
Fleas and ticks
Fleas prosper in the humid area. Both fleas and ticks normally appear during the summer. Since it is always summer in Houston, there is always a perfect season for these insects. They are most dangerous to your pets but can become your problem too. Both fleas and ticks transmit dangerous diseases.
Rats and Mice
Usually, these two creatures dwell separately and prefer to ignore each other. Yet, they may infest your house at the same time. During the fall they are looking for shelter. If you live somewhere near the crops you may already be familiar with the problem.
Both rodents are dangerous. They can bite, they leave their feces everywhere, infesting the house. They can carry viruses on them. Apart from that, mice and rats can chew the electrical wires, and make damage your furniture.
Flies
Flies are usual guests inside the house. They are attracted by food or water. Yet, sometimes they chose to settle down in your place. You will need professional help to get rid of them. Flies are attracted to everything that is decaying.
Flies can spread diseases around. Apart from that, they will lay their eggs in the house. You have to get rid of them before your house turns into a dumpster with a bad odor.
Stinging insects
You may find numerous stinging insects attracted to Houston’s high humidity. The major difficulty is that they are flying, hard to catch, and can sting you. The most popular species:
European hornets,
Bees,
Yellow jackets,
Baldfaced hornets,
Mud daubers,
Paper wasps.
Don’t forget that these tiny creatures may cause allergic reactions. Moreover, some wasps are poisonous. They prefer to live outside, but during the fall they are looking for warmer places to settle down. If you notice at least several insects in your house, check out their nests. They can even live inside the wall, so make sure there are no holes in it.
Scorpions
Texas has a wide number of scorpions on the territory. Some of them can crawl inside the house while others can settle down in your yard. Many scorpions in the area are not poisonous. Yet, they still can sting. The reaction may be allergic, and you can end up in the hospital.
Once you notice a scorpion in the house or nearby, you need to call pest control. The bite will cause numbness and swelling in the best-case scenario. Some of them can be deadly for people.
Houston Pest Control Prices
Pest control prices differ based on the pests you need to get rid of. They also differ based on the level of infestation and the tools you choose. Different companies offer their own prices, which are usually based on the company’s popularity, reviews, and approach.
The average price for a yearly package is $700. The average price for one-time treatment is $80-150. The first consultation is usually free of charge.
How to Find the Best Exterminators in Houston
It is not that hard to find exterminators in Houston. Yelp has dozens and hundreds of recommendations. Yet, you have to put some effort to find the most suitable options for you. Pay attention to the following features when you pick the company.
Pests
Find out which type of pest the company specializes in. Usually, the most popular choices are termites and mosquitoes in Houston. Yet, you may face the problem with scorpions or rats. Check out their offers and specific plans for each creature.
Tools
Make sure they can offer eco-friendly solutions. If you have allergies, they can’t use numerous chemicals in your house. You have to discuss everything in advance.
Reliability
Check out their reputation. The best way to do this is to read the reviews written by other users. They must not be made by the company’s representatives. You can also check out their BBB rate.
FAQ
Here is the list of most popular questions online. Read the answers to find out more about pest control in Houston.
How often should pest control be done in Houston?
It depends on the area you live in. If you live near the water and you have a high level of infestation around you, you have to call pest control at least once in three months. If you don’t have any problems with pests you can call once in 6 months.
Who is responsible for pest control in a rental property in Houston?
US law says that the landlord is responsible for pest control services. You can arrange a meeting with pest control services only after you inform the landlord. You also need to discuss the problem together.
What is the average cost of a pest control visit in Houston?
The average cost of a visit can be $80 if the problem is solved. If this is only a first visit and you discuss further steps it may cost you nothing. You have to check out the specifics of the pest control service you call.
Searching to extinguish some pests in Philadelphia? Rodents, insects, and other pests may want their share of brotherly love, but as it contradicts that to your human loved ones, you better get these creatures removed. And in this, you’ll need some assistance.
Pest Control Companies in Philadelphia We Reviewed
What are the best pest control companies in Philadelphia, PA? Of course, you can handle most pests with your own hands. But contacting these will save your time and money; preventing damage and saving trouble is what you’re after, and they’re about, right?
5 Best Pest Control Companies in Philadelphia
When termites or cockroaches have made their choice and decide to stay at your property, you need some strong arguments to convince them to go out. In this sort of argument, you better call neither Saul nor Ghostbusters but a pest control company. These are abundant in Pennsylvania, but you deserve to start with the best.
So here are the five companies that we consider worth a shot. They offer quality but affordable pest control in Philadelphia, as well as throughout Pennsylvania and in other states as well. Even if you’ve never heard of a certain company, you may get interested as you read more about it.
Terminix is one of the biggest names in the pest control industry. This company has been around since 1927 and started with the first substance designed specifically to kill termites. Since that day, the business has gone large. Now Terminix operates all over the U.S. and in 22 more countries. No wonder now it’s the pest control company of choice in many of them.
As for its Philadelphia office, it’s as professional as an overheated big city may require. Its plans are versatile and include treating ants, mosquitos, spiders, bed bugs, cockroaches, stingers, rodents, and even wildlife, as well as generic pest control (which may cover scorpions and centipedes, should you need to exterminate these).
The basic Bronze plan starts with $33/month and includes triannual checks to protect your household from various insects (except mosquitoes and termites) and rodents. There are plans like Silver (mosquito reduction included, $63/month) and Gold (termite protection included, $58/month). To have both mosquitoes and termites removed, you’ll need the Platinum plan ($88/month). All the plans include year-round protection, satisfaction guarantee, and 24/7 support.
It usually takes minutes to plan the first visit, and it doesn’t oblige you to do anything. The overall impression Terminix services give their customers is very positive, being close to 100%. More than that: among top-tier pest control companies in Philadelphia, Terminix has probably the most affordable pricing, given its reputation and quality.
Address: 3310 W Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073
Phone: (844) 276-1366
BBB Rating: A+
It was so 1928 to decide between the names “Eastern” and “Western” by pulling the name out of the hat! Though the name may be too generic (along with Western Union, Western Digital, etc.), the company is now a subsidiary of Rollins. Inc., and a more famous pest control household name (pun intended), Orkin. It may explain why Orkin does not operate in Philadelphia.
In Philadelphia, Western Pest Services exterminates all the local pests: creeping and flying insects, rodents, and even wildlife if you have issues with them. Along with primary control, the company offers different solutions for bed bugs, termites, and mosquitos. Not only does the company extinguish these pests on arrival, but it also gives its customers recommendations for keeping their properties pest-free.
Customer opinions are primarily favorable for Western, which results in its excellent rating on BBB and the level of credibility it boasts. The professionals are smart and active. They know what they do and can explain to the inhabitants what to do (we mean human ones), achieving the results they promise.
As for pricing, the company is reluctant to publish any prices on its website. Instead, it offers a free inspection and a phone call to discuss all the customer requirements and offer a suitable plan. It can result in really more flexible and affordable services, especially if you know what pests you want to get rid of. The lack of a generic plan, though, makes it harder (if ever possible) to compare its pricing with that of rivals. It means you should consider it individually if there’s a need to remove pests in Philadelphia.
3. Rentokil (J.C. Ehrlich): Unusual and Large-Scale Solutions
Address: 1125 Berkshire Blvd., Suite 150, Reading, Pa. 19610
Phone: (610) 372-9700
BBB Rating: A+
Though it’s a British company established in 1925, its relatively recent acquisition of Pennsylvania-based J.C. Ehrlich Co, Inc. enabled it to operate in Philadelphia too. Along with its Rentokil name, it uses names of its subsidiaries, like Ehrlich, Western Exterminator (not to be confused with Western Pest Services by Rollins, Inc), Presto-X, or Florida Pest Control. No wonder their names are interchangeable with Rentokil where relevant.
The company specializes in commercial pest control, offering its services to businesses. It claims that its decades of experience have enabled it to develop unique protocols for pest control in various environments. As companies may have properties in multiple areas and biomes, Rentokil offers some very exotic options.
Not only does it specialize in solving problems with mice, bed bugs, or ants. It also may handle birds (might be necessary for buildings), snakes (if it did have to be snakes), or even spiders, usually dismissed as pests, but in some places, their webs are the least wanted thing.
As you see, its offers are rather business- than home-oriented. Special offers cover building sites, hotels, multifamily housing, and even sensitive industries like food processing and health care. Bed bug control is demanded in the hotel business and so on. It even has an air purifier named VIRUSKILLER and uses disinfection drones. Given such a scale, it’s logical that it doesn’t stick to fixed plans (like Terminix does for home pest control) but develops them together with clients.
It may be not the optimal choice for dealing with household infestations. Yet if you run a business or face an unusual issue, Rentokil is the rescue.
Address: 1626 Locust St #514, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Phone: (215) 941-6300
BBB Rating: N/A
It must be no coincidence that Diagno has its office on the Locust St. Locust may be far from the most dreadful pests in urban environments. Such an address isn’t easily forgotten. Unlike Rentokil, which is business-oriented, Diagno is the optimal choice for residential pest control in which it specializes.
It’s a small family-owned business established in 2017, so it only offers a particular type of service in Greater Philadelphia and doesn’t have a broad array of offers. But for most demanded residential needs, it’s one of the best.
Small companies have their advantages. For example, what about business owners visiting your property on their own and proving also great technicians? A minor gimmick but an enjoyable one. Also, the company is quick to respond. Though BBB does not accredit it, it deserved its top ratings from OvoControl and good customer reviews.
It also has simple and logical pricing. When it comes to rodents, the first treatment is $230 for houses and $180 for apartments, regardless of the type of pest, the address, the size of the property, etc. Follow-up treatments within three months since the first one cost $70 for houses and $60 for apartments.
For most insects, the first visit is $150 and a follow-up $50, though bed bugs and termites are more expensive to remove. There are specific discounts for follow-ups for multifamily units, though the first service is still paid in full. Well, at least you don’t have to phone the manager and bargain.
Address: 2590 Tablerock Rd, Medford, OR 97501-1523
Phone: (541) 772-4541
BBB Rating: N/A
And again, it’s a family-owned business, though Evans operates on a larger scale. Evans is also a relatively recent name, established in 2010. But it’s already a business promoted enough to offer services in both the residential and commercial sectors. Along with your usual mice & rats, as well as ants, termites, cockroaches, bed bugs, or flies, Evans can take special measures against ticks, fleas, and carpenter bees.
Not only do Evans employees do their job well. They also enable customers to continue treatment with DIY products. The related section on the company’s site is very visual, with detailed instructions. The first service, though, requires a more professional approach. A business must be quite self-assured to avoid thinking it undermines its future by sharing know-hows. This DIY, though, sometimes causes misunderstandings with customers that prefer licensed pesticides.
It usually does excellent work with insects. With mice and rats, though, sometimes the company acknowledges issues standing in its way and requires more time or effort to cover neighboring buildings or shared areas like basements. For example, you need to be prepared for a requirement to grant access to your basement. It doesn’t relate exclusively to Evans, though, but to any pest control company.
As for pricing, it’s more expensive than most others. The first treatment is now $270 when it comes to mice, the follow-up being $110. As the company admits, Evans, not being a company of scale, just had to raise the prices after the COVID-19 stroke to remain the best exterminators in Philadelphia. Some may say it’s too much, but the reviews (mostly very positive) show that most customers are good with it. And, by the way, Evans accepts crypto.
Common Pests in Philadelphia
So, what pests can you encounter in Philadelphia? Of course, these are primarily ubiquitous species that bother humans all over the U.S. and neighboring countries. Philadelphia bug removal specialists know how to handle them, but you also need to know their names.
Mosquitoes
These bloodsuckers can also deprive you of sleep by buzzing at your ears. Don’t you say you’ve never wished them all wiped off the Earth!
Roaches
They are the most repugnant pests, and deservedly. Though they are not as poisonous as stingers and not as noisy as mosquitoes, they are a sign of disorder and a threat of sicknesses, and most of us find them simply disgusting.
Bed bugs
These are dangerous for your sleep and your skin. What’s worse, bed bugs are much easier to get in your house than out of it.
Stingers
These insects include wasps, bees, hornets, bumblebees, and others which we are early taught to distinguish. A single one can be ignored, but a nest at your property may pose a big, big problem. Y’all been warned about them killa bees on the swarm.
Termites
Here are the destructors of property number one. If you don’t get rid of them, there’ll be nothing left to save. If it’s an exaggeration, but a very slight one.
Ants
These cousins of termites seem friendlier, but your household may still suffer from them. They may be okay in your yard or garden, but ants in an apartment make a serious problem.
Spiders
Prejudices may exaggerate their dangerousness, but spiderwebs are the most unwelcome in some places.
Other insects
There are many insects that may cause unexpected problems. Yet they all have a lot in common in terms of habits and lifestyle, so the problem is solvable.
Rodents
Almost all of them you can meet around, except for your pet rabbits, hamsters, or guinea pigs. No matter if you see a mouse, a rat, a vole, or maybe a gopher or a groundhog: if you welcome them, they act like pests. Well, even one squirrel in your house can be a big problem.
Various wildlife
This problem isn’t as common in urban environments, so it deserves a separate overview. But no one is secure from encountering a couple of raccoons or an accidental snake. Have you been suffering from any of these?
Philadelphia Pest Control Prices
Even if you skipped the rest, you might correctly assume that Philadelphia pest control prices depend on the size of the property and the type of pests. For example, a visit of termite exterminators may cost about $1000, but with rats, mice, or roaches, it may be down to $250-300.
Smaller companies may set even a lower price (at about $150 for the first treatment), but these can be useless with exotic pests or massive infestations. So, if it’s rodents, prepare about $800-1000, while getting rid of insects may fit into $500.
For apartments, the average is about 40% lower than for houses. The first treatment is usually 2-3 times more expensive than follow-ups. As for weekly visits after the first strike, they are $40-50. The more often, the cheaper; if you only want to see the exterminators every 4-6 months, each visit will be about $100-300.
How to Find the Best Exterminators in Philadelphia
There are some parameters that you need to consider when choosing the pest exterminator company. Usually, learning all of it takes just one telephone call, and the manager would ask all the questions, but you’ll still need to keep this in mind.
Geography
Every pest company defines a list of regions where it operates. Choose only among those that work in your area, or you’ll end up losing your time.
Pests they’re working with (incl. licenses)
Usually, a company specifies the list of pests it works with on its websites, though you can query it on the phone. Though, of course, the employees’ experience may go beyond what’s written. For example, they may have encountered different species they consider too exotic to mention.
Pricing
The more explicitly it’s stated on the website, the better. Plans may depend on the parameters of your property and infestation, though. So be prepared to answer questions about your house size, the number of floors, doors, garages, and stuff.
Experience
It’s not that crucial; even if a company was founded not so long ago, its founders and employees might have had previous years or decades of experience. It’s not the years, though; it’s the mileage The more satisfied customers the business has, the better.
Brand awareness
Loud names like Terminix or Orkin haven’t emerged out of the blue; there are decades of success behind them. Smaller companies, though, can build their reputation too quite soon.
FAQ
Even after reading these Philadelphia pest control reviews, there are some popular questions that need to be addressed directly.
How often should pest control be done in Philadelphia, PA?
It depends on the pests, the size of your property, and many things, including your neighbors. Usually, it takes one treatment and one follow-up with most pests, but die-hard populations may require more.
Who is responsible for pest control in a rental property in Philadelphia?
Generally, the landlord must take care, but it requires the tenant to notify them within five days after detecting the pests. The tenants may prefer to handle them themselves instead of having the landlord do it. But if they notified the landlord and no response followed, they have a right to file a complaint to the L&I.
What is the average cost of a pest control visit in Philadelphia?
The first visit of Philadelphia exterminators may be between $150-300 (for common pests) and up to $1000 when it comes to termites or other species harder to extinguish.
It’s safe to say that Californians know more about pests than most US citizens. This is due to the combination of highly changeable, often inclement weather in the bay area that causes bugs to seek shelter in human dwellings and mild conditions overall.
You can save yourself some time scrolling through San Jose pest control reviews with this article. Stick around if you want to learn about affordable pest control in San Jose and which bugs to be aware of in California. The FAQ section is included to help you deal with the invaders.
5 Best Pest Control Companies in San Jose
Here is a list of the best exterminators in San Jose to rely on if you suffer from pest infestation. Be sure to read the descriptions to learn about San Jose pest control prices as well as where to go if you see a termite in your house.
With over 300 branches across the United States, Terminix is definitely among the largest and most famous pest control companies in San Jose. Moreover, it’s one of the biggest players globally. The fact that it relies on local experts is the key reason behind its affordable pricing.
Another important factor is the use of flexible plans that enable you to save money by implementing pest control practices such as inspections on a regular basis.
The history of Terminix can be traced back almost a century ago. Over the years, it has acquired expertise in dealing with a wide variety of pests, and San Jose bug removal is no exception. The local branch will offer you a flexible pest control plan that includes 13 essential insects, including termites, bed bugs, and more.
The good news is that non-insect unwanted guests such as mice and rats are included as well. You save money by subscribing to regular service for over a year, the plan for which will be prepared following the initial inspection.
This is not to say you cannot rely on Terminix for one-time solutions, though. It is a less flexible yet reasonably affordable option which leaves prevention up to you. We recommend that you consider subscription plans if you live in San Jose because this area is notorious for being rife with pests.
Presently, it’s possible to get 50 dollars off if you purchase a pest control plan as opposed to a single-time inspection. The experts will be wearing personal protective equipment according to the COVID-2019-related rules.
Founded back in 1901, Orkin is currently a network as big as 400+ locations worldwide, concentrated mostly in the USA and staffed by a total of over 8,000 team members. The company stands out among its rivals due to its focus on science.
It partners with a number of research and charity organizations to foster healthcare and scientifically driven pest control as well as to educate the public on the dangers of common pests such as mosquitoes. To name just a few, the list includes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Red Cross, and the National Science Teachers Association.
Orkin takes a responsible approach to solving your insect problems. Their San Jose exterminators will not charge any extra fees in case of a re-infestation between treatments; this is viewed as the company’s commitment to your goals as the customer. All Orkin Pros complete intensive training that involves the most recent scientific information on pest control with due regard to your location.
Since prevention is part and parcel of pest management, pest control plans are central to Orkin’s pricing policy. The first stage is always an inspection to estimate the scope of the problem and the steps to be taken.
Both preventative and active anti-pest measures are used to ensure you have a home free of termites, rodents, ants, and bed bugs, with regular follow-up between sessions. The price, including that of the inspection, depends on the initial state of your property. This company won’t offer you a free initial visit, but its prices make up for it over the long run.
Address: 1125 Berkshire Blvd Ste 150 Reading, PA (mailing address)
Phone: (610) 372-9700
BBB Rating: A+
Originally a British pest control business founded in 1925, Rentokil has grown and diversified to become a very notable player in the global market since then. In particular, it is famous for offering specialized services to enterprises in the healthcare, food industry, and a variety of other sensitive areas.
This doesn’t mean you can’t rely on Rentokil experts for residential pest control, though. The giant offers a number of solutions to pest problems commonly found in California.
Apart from being a huge network of brands with numerous branches across the globe, Rentokil takes pride in adopting responsible practices to benefit the local community that it serves and offering responsive support to customers via single points of contact. It also implements data transparency features to make sure you can trace your progress against the chosen plan.
Unlike other top providers, Rentokil does not usually offer subscriptions. However, its treatment programs for such common San Jose problems as bed bugs, mosquitoes, and termites include a follow-up stage where the need for any further intervention is identified.
Moreover, the Rentokil Specialist will educate you on the issue you are facing to ensure proper prevention in the future. Pricing is transparent and takes place following the initial inspection, which is common practice due to how different properties can be in terms of accessibility for treatment, infestation severity, and other factors.
If you live in the bay area, the chances are high that you are familiar with termites. This pest is especially notorious among Californians, and San Jose is no exception to this rule.
HiTech Termite is a highly specialized, BBB-accredited company operating in California that deals specifically with termites, relying on recent inventions to make sure the unwelcome guests will not return to your home.
HiTech Termite offers a free estimate in case you feel anxious about how its services might affect your budget. The price is calculated on a case-by-case budget following an initial contact to take into account the many factors that determine the situation when it comes to termites. You will most probably be offered several intervention options to choose from upon completion of this step.
While the company does not work with any bugs except termites, it leverages quite a few environmentally safe technologies, including microwave treatment and non-fumigation chemical control.
The latter term means that, unlike most pest exterminators, HiTech Termite won’t expose you and your home to highly toxic gasses. Instead, its professionals use less aggressive yet effective chemicals on the affected areas, which means you can safely enter your home without staying away for a day or two to avoid poisoning. It also eliminates the need to pack away and seal your possessions.
Address: 20600 Mountain House Parkway, Tracy, CA 95391, USA
Phone: +1 925-391-2677
BBB Rating: N/A
Another highly specialized company on our list of top exterminators in San Jose, Bay Area Bed Bug invests great effort and talent in fighting the little bug that gave it its name. These insects feed on human blood, thus being especially disgusting and much-feared to us. They are known to be the scourge of the California bay area, which is why expertise in this area is much wanted.
Registered in the Californian city of Tracy, Bay Area Bed Bug offers several options when it comes to managing bed bugs. First of all, it takes special pride in using the Aprehend® bed bug spray, which is a non-toxic, environmentally friendly solution that will keep your home free of these pests for the next three months. It is safe to be used around both adults and kids, and you don’t worry about your pets being in the house.
The classical heat treatment approach is another popular solution, not lastly because it quicks. It kills adult bed bugs as well as eggs and nymphs within a single day, which means you won’t have to sleep with them another night. Just like Aprehend®, it poses no threat to the health of your family.
For those who are interested in controlling bed bugs on a budget, family-safe conventional chemical treatment is the most viable option. The only downside is that its effect lasts for just 30 days compared to the above measures.
As the name suggests, Bay Area Bed Bug deals exclusively with bed bugs. Do not rely on it for other pest problems, for which you can consult one of the top three companies above.
Common Pests in San Jose
This section contains a short overview of the most widespread pests that you can come across as a San Jose resident. Other unwanted visitors, such as rats and spiders, might also appear on your property but are less notorious or specific to this location.
Termites
Not to be confused with common ants, termites pose a much greater threat to your home as they tunnel in the soil as well as wooden structures, undermining their stability. They usually go unnoticed until a swarm emerges or construction works expose some of the damage. You can tell a termite from an ant because its front and hind wings are of the same length, and its antennae are straight or slightly drooping, not at a 90-degree angle.
Bed bugs
Found across the globe, bed bugs are dangerous pests because they rely on human blood for feeding. These wingless 1 to 7 mm reddish-brown insects owe their name to the habit of biting people for blood when they are asleep.
Contrary to a common misconception, bed bugs do not spread diseases as such. However, their bites tend to get itchy, and scratching is associated with an increased risk of developing a secondary skin infection.
Ants
There are several ant species in California, including imported red fire ants, which are notorious for being extremely aggressive. While mostly found underground, they will also come onto the surface of the earth and occasionally bite people and pets. The greatest risk associated with ants’ painful stings is that of allergic reactions. You should be especially careful if you have a history of those related to ants.
Cockroaches
These scavenger pests have learned throughout evolution to feed on our leftovers. Apart from being disgusting, they pose a serious health threat because they tend to occur around places where we prepare meals. Their droppings and shed skin can spread diseases and cause asthma, which is a serious risk.
Mosquitoes
Common as they are, mosquitoes are far from being innocent bugs. Apart from their painful, itchy, swelling bites, they can carry diseases, and the species found in California are no exception to this. Here is just a short list of infections you risk contracting when a mosquito bites you in or around San Jose:
malaria;
Saint Louis encephalitis;
Dengue;
Chikungunya;
Zika;
Yellow fever.
The problem with mosquitos is that they are ubiquitous and hard to keep in check once you leave your home. However, a professional trained in pest control who is well aware of the situation in San Jose can give you valuable advice and help you work out a prevention strategy to avoid being bitten.
San Jose Pest Control Prices
Prices differ widely, depending on which pest is bothering you. However, the general tendency is that subscriptions are more affordable (and also more effective) than single-time visits. Some companies will offer free first inspections to give you a non-obliging quote; others charge money for that first visit but offer cheaper prices on follow-up.
Monthly periodic inspections are the cheapest. The average price in San Jose is approximately 45 dollars per visit, while a semi-monthly one would likely cost you 50 to 60 dollars. A quarterly inspection can get as expensive as 300 USD, in particular, because the damage done in the meanwhile can be considerable. A lot of companies offer yearly and other long-term plans with follow-up with professionals between treatment sessions, which are generally very affordable.
How to Find the Best Exterminators in San Jose
Customer reviews are a good place to start unless you are lucky enough to have valuable recommendations from your friends and family.
Specialization and scope of operation
Start by identifying the problem you are dealing with (see the Common Pests in San Jose section above for guidance) and look for the local companies that deal with it. It’s best to choose either well-reputed nationwide or global providers like our top 3 or highly specialized local companies such as No. 4 and 5 on our list.
Pest control methods
Advisable control methods differ depending on which pest is bothering you. For bed bugs, the focus should be on killing eggs and nymphs as well as adult individuals to prevent reinfestation, while with termites, the required measures might differ. Take some time to educate yourself on the available methods and make sure the company you are interested in uses the most environmentally friendly, pet- and kid-safe approaches available.
Pricing policy
Budget is another important criterion when choosing a pest management provider to rely on in San Jose. Transparency is extremely important because many companies will not share their pricing formula with you. Instead, they might shock you with the final total. Therefore, it’s a good idea to explore the available plans and which factors determine the price of a single treatment as well as periodic inspections.
FAQ
This section contains brief answers to a set of commonly asked questions when it comes to pest control in San Jose, CA.
How often should pest control be done in San Jose?
This depends on the peculiarities of your property. The general recommendation is every one to two months, possibly with follow-up in-between treatments or inspections. Ask your extermination professional for advice on the most appropriate pest control schedule for your case.
Who is responsible for pest control in a rental property in San Jose?
It’s the responsibility of the landlords, but tenants must promptly inform their landlords of any signs of the infestation. The parties are supposed to agree on pest control measures to be taken afterward. It’s the tenant who must prepare the infested property for treatment and/or inspection.
What is the average cost of a pest control visit in San Jose?
If you pay for a monthly plan, each periodic visit will cost you around 40 to 50 USD. If the treatment is needed, the price might be increased. Less frequent inspections are usually more expensive, such as up to 300 USD per quarterly check. Infestation interventions are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
San Diego is the place to be, right? You’re not the only one who agrees; so do your neighbors, and not only humans but those you’d rather see out of your property. These unpaying tenants do more harm to it than you can imagine; that’s why when you see ants, roaches, or wasps, you better start searching for the best pest control companies in San Diego as soon as possible.
There are many pest exterminators in San Diego (which indicates how common the pest problem is). To save your time and effort, we have selected the five of them with which you will get the best results.
The Best Pest Control in San Diego, CA (2022)
What should a company be to get on this list? First of all, it should do its job well. And while some of these companies have been around for decades or over a century, new businesses can also start right up and leave their customers fully satisfied. It’s not enough to judge by one treatment but rather by the result. How well do they do their monitoring? How easy is it to get with the specialists they send? How quickly do they respond to your requests? All of these factors matter, and after some research, we chose these five.
Address: 5458 Complex St Ste 401 San Diego, CA 92123
Phone: (858) 503-3538
BBB Rating: A-
Terminix is a pest control company of choice for many places; in San Diego, this company has built a strong reputation. Like many large-scale companies, it operates in various states and regions, as well as in other countries.
It can handle various types of pests, most commonly termites, bed bugs, cockroaches, stingers, and rodents. Call and explain your problems and wait for your free quote. After the inspection, the specialist will detect your problem, property weaknesses, and the blueprint for your future plan. Then you are free to decide whether to agree or not.
As for pricing, termite control, commonly the most expensive type of pest control, starts at $69/month. As for other pests, the basic Bronze plan begins with $33/month and implies triannual checks to check your household for various insects (except mosquitos and termites) and rodents, which is the most logical in San Diego.
There are plans like Silver (mosquito reduction included, $63/month) and Gold (termite protection included, $58/month). To have both mosquitos and termites removed, you’ll need the Platinum plan ($88/month). All the plans offer year-round protection and satisfaction guarantee. Prices are subject to change, though, and the company directly states that they also depend on your location, the type of pests, and the infestation level.
Last but not least: its offices are working 24/7 in San Diego. So if you suddenly see a roach or hear mosquitoes too often, you can call Terminix as soon as you encounter the pest. You know how fast these insects may lay eggs and form colonies; even hours can be crucial. So you better call as soon as you notice anything suspicious.
Address: 2420 Grand Avenue – Unit J, Vista, CA 92083
Phone: (866) 430-4595
BBB Rating: A+
Orkin is an even older company that has been dealing with pests since 1901. An embodiment of the American dream, it was founded by Otto Orkin, a son of a Jewish family from Latvia, who had been tasked with keeping rats away from the family store before launching his business at only 14. Now, Orkin is one of the largest pest control companies in San Diego and nationwide.
Orkin specializes in both residential and commercial services, offering various plans for homes and businesses. For each location, it pays more attention to local common bugs. In San Diego, it offers special plans for getting rid of termites, Argentine ants, bed bugs, and earwigs, along with common roaches, ants, spiders, or stingers. Of course, if your pest is an uncommon type, they may handle it too.
Orkin emphasizes the training it provides for its employees, so they come prepared for various types of problems. Suppose the specialist that came in a branded red diamond truck to examine your property has encountered something beyond their competency. In that case, they will pass the task to a better-prepared specialist. Usually, they offer a plan with treatment and monitoring, but if you insist, you can go with a one-time treatment. I hope it will do the job.
There is one significant issue that Orkin (as many large companies) is subject to. Sometimes your requests may be lost and unanswered. So you need to show some insistence to get in touch with them. Other issues are mostly not about their professionalism. And by the way: if you want a COVID-19 vaccinated specialist, you need to emphasize it when placing your request.
Prices are usually formed individually, but usually, Orkin charges about $45-55/month, while termites and bed bugs are more expensive to treat. A termite treatment is more expensive, up to $5,000, while a bed bug extermination session may cost you $500-1500.
Address: 165 Vallecitos De Oro, San Marcos, CA 92069
Phone: (866) 851-5044
BBB Rating: A+
Western Exterminator is another company that has been around for generations (est. 1921). What a perfect name for a company operating in California! A bit common, yes, but it deals with common issues. Now it’s a subsidiary of Rentokil, yet it retains its brand and reputation.
Like many companies, it operates on a plan basis rather than offers one-time extermination. It deals with pests common in California, and its staff consists of local specialists who have grown in this environment and know a lot about local pests and the most efficient methods.
Western Exterminator offers business and residential plans. So, instead of simply putting the basic prices on the website (which will grow depending on your location, property size, the type of infestation, the preferred schedule, etc.), it explains why prices are calculated individually. To learn more, you need to fill out a detailed form or talk to a manager on the form. For further information, there are free quotes that make the estimation even more precise.
The company changes its customers a bit higher than the average, even in San Diego. There may be another problem that Western Exterminator also experiences. While the specialists are usually competent and respectful, managers can be too insistent in luring you into plans instead of single treatments, or they simply lose track of your requests. This organizational issue is common for large companies, so prepare to try again if there’s no response.
4. Colonial Pest Management: Family-Owned, Local, Efficient
The company with a name that reminds both of imperial times and of insects’ way of life, Colonial Pest Management, is a rather small family-owned business operating in San Diego. Colonial PM does not overload its site with a long list of species it can take care of.
Along with regular pests (cockroaches, ants, etc.), it mentions bees, birds (namely swallows and pigeons), and rodents. Yet, as the practice shows, the company is ready to work with pests even if they are not listed on the website.
Don’t worry if the phone doesn’t answer: soon the manager will call you back. The price is (as usual) calculated individually, but overall, it’s significantly cheaper than what larger companies charge. On the other hand, the company takes seriously even the minor job done in one treatment, leaving no chance for the infestation to expand. All the technicians are licensed and experienced well, so indeed, the company enjoys its reputation (which is even higher than that of older and larger businesses) for a reason.
It’s somewhat mysterious unless you contact the company personally. The address is not easy to find, and the company doesn’t even publicly reveal its foundation date. Its website also appears extremely simple, as it’s been made simply to squat the domain name. Yet the experience it delivers speaks for itself.
Last but not least: the company emphasizes that it uses non-violent methods of removal when it comes to bees and birds. It’s pretty often contacted when it’s the bees, and the specialists are quite able to locate the hive and relocate it then.
The company with a name that would rather make you think of an alt-rock band has been around since 1989 – that is, from the grunge era. In these years, it has proven and improved its expertise in treating infestations with various pests, from your familiar ants and rodents to bees.
As the name suggests, the company works with various pests but shows outstanding results with relocating bees. For example, instead of offering its service as soon as you notice a single bee, it instructs you to wait for a day or two if you see a swarm at your property and only get in touch if it doesn’t go away. It relocates bees to remote areas where they won’t put any human habitat at risk. With wasps, though, the company is not so gentle, removing them efficiently and deadly.
It also uses hi-tech methods to detect rodent entry points, removing ant colonies, cockroaches, fleas, or ticks. It’s done with organic products, mostly based on natural oils, and with eco-friendly technologies. It may also deal with spiders, scorpions, crickets, and other insects, should you encounter them at your property. As for prices, they are individual but lower than larger companies charge, offering affordable pest control in San Diego.
As a local small bees-ness, Bugs Bee Dead is quick to respond. Call it and wait for the specialist to arrive the next day. Last but not least: the specialists pay attention to doing their work least destructively, even if it’s necessary to break through walls to cut the infestation.
Common Pests in San Diego, CA
Like in most places on Earth, insects are the likeliest pests you encounter. Roaches, termites, flies and fleas, and more dangerous stingers, are always around and sometimes closer than they appear. But there are also rodents (ubiquitous mice, rats, voles, etc.) and snails. These are the most frequent guests that San Diego exterminators can help you with.
Mosquitoes
The climate of San Diego is just enough hot and humid for them. Only one of you can stay unbothered: either you handle your problem with them or enjoy that high-pitched sound over your ear as you’re prepared to sleep.
Termites
House destructors number one, they can turn walls into simple imitations if the population is large enough. The best approach is that even one termite is large enough for a population.
Roaches
They are relatively in San Diego, which contributes to the hate they arise. And it’s not only about the size of a single roach but about the scale of issues with them. Many populations are already prepared for traditional household treatments, so you may need specialists to handle them.
Bed bugs
Like elsewhere, they are among the most notorious sleep killers and may also spread diseases. Treatment of these creatures is usually more expensive, but living alongside them may cost you more.
Stinging insects
If you see one wasp or bee flying by, that’s okay. But if there’s suddenly a lot of them, or you see strange chewing noises that sound like rain when the sky is clear, it’s a warning. Wasps, hornets, bees, and bumblebees are among the most dangerous pests.
Ants
There is nothing bad about ants until they settle in your kitchen or under the entrance. Then, of course, you need to have them removed. And while it’s easy to handle a small ant house with boiling water or borax, a more severe infestation can require more serious intervention.
Spiders
Spiders are a sign of enough insects on your territory to feed on. And while they are mostly harmless, having spiderwebs in your house is nothing pleasant. So San Diego, CA, bug removal companies deal with spiders too.
Other insects
The Earth is rich in various insects (many more than mammals, birds, and reptiles combined). Some uncommon pests may also appear in your house, and while you may lack even the slightest idea about what they are, specialists will handle them.
Snails
Why did it have to be snails? Seemingly so harmless, they show their other side if you’re into gardening. They are very harmful to everything green, damaging the leaves and the blades they like. And no, these aren’t these grapevine snails that you could at least eat. So you need someone to handle them if you don’t want your garden seriously damaged.
Rodents
The most frequently met ones are mice and rats, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise if squirrels and other less common species choose your property. Removing them yourself may be risky and fruitless, so you better trust the pros.
Various wildlife
It’s not as common in San Diego as in other places, but you may be the winner as you encounter raccoons, skunks, opossums, rattlesnakes, etc. These may require not just a regular company but that with specific expertise.
Have you met any of these creatures? If so, you are probably in need of pest control.
San Diego Pest Control Prices
California is not the cheapest place on Earth, but San Diego pest control prices are quite reasonable. It’s hard to calculate the average, given the number of variables that influence it. Yet there is some data about average pricing for certain companies and infestation types.
Speaking of generic yearly plans, they are mostly $550-750, though some services are more expensive. You need to prepare a larger sum if you want to get rid of traditionally more costly bed bugs or termites. Prices depend on the size of your property, so the service will cost you less if you live in an apartment or a condo.
How to Find the Best Exterminators in San Diego, CA
When searching for the best exterminators in San Diego, you may rely on what they write on their websites and social media pages. But there is more to consider, so we recommend you also make your choice by the following sources:
The experience of your relatives, friends, or neighbors. They can update you on their situations, pricing, companies’ attitude, and even names of specialists they recommend or do not recommend.
Online reviews. These are less trustworthy because they can be unrelated to your case, obsolete, or simply faked by the companies or their rivals. Often low ratings on sites like Yelp are caused by problems companies experienced in the past but have overcome.
Conversations with managers and specialists. You can ask them your questions and receive firsthand information, for example, about pricing and schedules. A talk does not oblige you to hire the company; they just give you information.
Here are also other differences that can affect the efficiency of their work.
Location
Is the office of the company located nearby? Not only is it more comfortable. It means the costs of transportation will be smaller. In addition, the specialists will have more experience with pests typical for your area.
Pests they’re working with
As for pests, each of them requires a special approach. Getting rid of rodents is very different from exterminating wasps or cockroaches. It requires different baits, methods, time, and sometimes the difference can even include physical damage to walls.
Pricing
Of course, everyone would like to pay less for the same service. But it will depend on your infestation type, on your property size, and extra options like eco-friendly methods. A free quote will help both you and the company better estimate the price. In addition, you can opt for long-time plans or single sessions with a certain number of follow-ups.
Years of experience
On the one hand, the longer the company has been in the industry, the more experience in its business it has gained. On the other, growing sometimes means managerial issues like lost requests. You also need to assume that even young businesses can be established by specialists with decades of experience.
Brand awareness
The more people know about the brand, the more careful you should be with its reputation. So they (at least in theory) should care more about supporting it. On the other hand, newer brands may offer cheaper services of the same quality as they build their public image.
FAQ
Even after reading San Diego pest control reviews, some questions remain unanswered. So let’s address them now.
How often should pest control be done in San Diego?
It’s a rather hot and humid region, so properties are likelier to get infested. So in many cases, frequent control is necessary. But, again, it depends on the infestation type and level, the size and location of your property, and on your eagerness to prevent pests rather than deal with them on arrival.
Who is responsible for pest control in a rental property in San Diego?
In California, it’s the landlord’s responsibility. He should take the measures within 30 days since the moment he’s been notified by tenants.
What is the average cost of a pest control visit in San Diego?
Yearly plans are usually about $500-700, a one-time visit being about $250-600. Follow-ups start at $40 unless there are termites or bed bugs the treatment of which is more expensive. You can also bargain if you consider the service overpriced or choose a more affordable pest exterminator as an option.
The oldest and one of the biggest cities in Texas, San Antonio is full of historical places, old stories, attractions for people… and for pests. Wherever humans live, the pest problem arises. So the population of San Antonio may be in the billions if we also count these. A thousand pests on one property? That’s a modest estimate. But if you reasonably think that even one is too many, it’s time to search for pest control companies in San Antonio and call them.
1. Terminix: The Best Nationwide Choice 2. Orkin: The Next Best Choice 3. Go Away Pest Control: The Best Choice for Removing Wildlife 4. Bulwark Exterminating: Recommended! 5. Beeline Pest Control: the Shortest Way
The problem is not to find someone to remove the pests, though, but to choose the best company to do so. The service is in demand, so many operators are offering their services, but not all of them are created equal. Should you opt for a more prominent name or find some friendlier and cheaper service among local San Antonio businesses? Let’s drop some names.
5 Best Pest Control Companies in San Antonio, TX
As for 2022, there are quite a lot of companies that exterminate pests in San Antonio. What’s surprising, though, is that major companies do not dominate this city, leaving it mostly to local businesses. Not that the nationwide giants are absent completely, but the market is probably very loyal to its own kin. Or are there any rational reasons?
Given this, though, the problem remains. Where do you find the specialists that treat your property right and get rid of pests bothering you? Can they do the job in time? And what about pricing? Last but not least: are their methods eco-friendly, and should you worry about your kids and pets? Let’s see the most prominent businesses around and weigh their pros and cons.
What’s the proper name you remember as soon as you see a mouse, a roach, or a termite? Chances are it’s Terminix. The company was established in 1927 and has enjoyed particular awareness not only by its omnipresence and quality but by its original marketing campaigns (including a trailer of Mosquitonado, one of the greatest movies ever made).
Terminix works with the most common and harmful pests of San Antonio, like termites, ants, cockroaches, fleas, rodents, birds, and other wildlife. It offers plans that include taking care of most typical pests; again, bed bugs and termites require more attention, so they are to be charged higher.
One of the significant advantages of Terminix is that its office works 24/7. It means that if you suddenly see a cockroach in the night or cannot fall asleep because mosquitoes are much more active than usual, you can call the company immediately and discuss your free quote. Like it happens with large companies, you need to be insistent. While sometimes there are issues with appointments, specialists usually arrive on time and do their job professionally.
The pricing of Terminix is not the most affordable. Yet the job is usually done well, and if you consider a plan with follow-ups and monitoring, the pricing becomes more reasonable. As a reference, you can assume that termite control, commonly the most expensive type of pest control, starts at $69/month.
There are plans that cover multiple pests; the most affordable Bronze plan begins with $33/month and implies triannual checks to check your household for various insects (except mosquitos and termites) and rodents. Other plans include Silver (mosquito reduction comprised $63/month) and Gold (termite protection comprised $58/month).
To have both mosquitos and termites removed, you’ll need the Platinum plan ($88/month). Each plan offers year-round protection and a satisfaction guarantee. Local prices in different regions, though, can change and primarily grow. So before placing your request, consult the manager.
Address: 2800 NE Interstate 410 Loop Ste 107, San Antonio, TX 78218
Phone: (210) 874-25-72
BBB Rating: A+
As one of the oldest companies on the market, with a great foundation story and rich media coverage, Orkin has become a part of the American culture and business environment. It’s logical to have its offices in any big city in the U.S., and now it’s among the largest pest control companies in San Antonio as of 2022.
In San Antonio, Orkin offers the most relevant set of services, covering the most common pests like ants, termites, stingers, cockroaches, rodents, and more. If you have too exotic a pest on your property, chances are Orkin (as a large company) will send you a competent specialist who works with this type. Yet usually, it centers its offers around more common problems that attract more customers.
Logically, a company like this will insist on yearly plans, and sometimes they are quite hard to get to listen and decline their offers, insisting on, say, one-time treatment and follow-ups instead of annual plans. Yet if you do, you can get a very professional service. Orkin has many specialists and all the necessary equipment, from pest baits to inspection devices.
Pricing is not available on the website, and it’s logical because Orkin offers personalized plans. To make an estimation, they can provide a free quote. Then you can discuss whether you’re good with this pricing and when to start. In short, it’s not the most affordable pest control in San Antonio, but if something goes wrong, you can reach the management and get the job done properly.
3. Go Away Pest Control: The Best Choice for Removing Wildlife
Though this company is located in Boerne, it works in San Antonio as well (it’s not far, in fact, and Boerne belongs to the San Antonio–New Braunfels Metropolitan Statistical Area). The company has been around since 2018, but its founders have been in the industry for about 35 years. It’s a period long enough to develop impressive expertise, isn’t it? Specializing in local service, it knows everything about local pests and laws.
The latter is important because Go Away Pest Control offers (along with traditional cockroach, ant, or rat removal) services related to wildlife. And no wonder, as one of the founders is a professional trapper. So not only are the specialists ready to meet typical pests for San Antonio: but they are also prepared for surprises. Raccoons, skunks, squirrels, opossums, bats, or birds are no problem for Go Away Pest Control.
A small company’s recently established benefits include lower prices (though, again, it depends) and immediate response. The experience also enables the company to rely more on natural repellents and poisons than synthetic ones, which is undoubtedly eco-friendlier. Concerning life, the specialists use non-violent methods whenever possible. As for prices, they are also non-violent, being quite affordable (yet calculated individually again).
Last but not least: Go Away Pest Control offers other options. They include soil restoration, which is an excellent choice for your courtyard or garden if it’s been damaged for a long. Another option named Castle Shield protects your property from pests if they aren’t there… yet.
With such a name, you may imagine a castle standing on the border, keeping the invaders away. The company was established in 1999 and remained a family-owned business, unlike larger companies that have been rebought many times. Bulwark operates in several towns across the country, and among San Antonio bug removal companies, it’s one of the best rated.
It doesn’t try to impress with a list of species it deals with, emphasizing mosquitoes and termites. But as you look through its website, the variety of pests they can handle shows 15 pages for various spiders, scorpions, termites, ants, stingers, rodents, etc. You can identify yours right away.
The company does not reveal its pricing but offers a quote for free. A regular practice, you know. But you can bargain about both the amount and the terms, and the policy of Bulwark is flexible. In addition, the company offers a 100% moneyback guarantee. And there’s no job too small: even if you have one scorpion on your property, they will handle it.
Does the name mean the specialists get to your property as quickly as they can? Well, the company was established in 1996 in Utah, and now it feels at home in Texas, so why not? And the family-owned business is well competitive, offering a wide array of pest removal. It deals with termites, ants, spiders, cockroaches, wasps, bees, scorpions, as well as mice and rats.
The feature that Beeline highlights in its advertising is a long-lasting effect. The company offers support even after one-time treatments. It covers both the residential and commercial services by Beeline. Not only does Beeline Pest Control remove creeping and flying insects from your property. It also deals with rodents, provides maintenance after treatment, and offers preventative services.
In addition, its methods are designed to prevent the total elimination of every living thing around, both pests and beneficial insects and other creatures. The know-hows by Beeline may be just as beneficial if you’re into gardening or flower growing. The ecosystems should not suffer from applying pesticides, and it’s quite a task, but Beeline takes care of it. As for pricing, it’s individual but referred to as one of the most affordable options among San Antonio pest exterminator companies.
Common Pests in San Antonio, CA
San Antonio is as populated by pests as any large city. The climate and the location, though, influence the species that appear here the most frequently. Insects, rodents, birds, and other wildlife may come without knocking on your door. The chances are that if something settles at your property, it’s one of these. The good news is that the local pest exterminators know the drill and have some expertise with these. But you better be prepared.
Ants
These are probably the most ubiquitous creatures on Earth and the most numerous. Not that they are inherently harmful, but if they settle in your house, there may be a problem. The conditions that attract them may as well attract other insects, too. So you’d better not only handle the ants but also prevent a further infestation with a bit of help from the pros.
Termites
These evil counterparts of ants are notorious destructors of property. Eat into a wall, so it crumbles? Consume entire logs and blocks? Termites also bite. And they are very hard to extinguish even for pros; that’s why removing them is more expensive than the average.
Mosquitoes
It’s hot and humid here; what else does a mosquito need to be happy? Oh, a drop of somebody’s blood; maybe yours. And they give you the worst sort of sleepless nights with their high-pitched sound. One mosquito can be dismissed or just killed with a newspaper, but if they become a calamity, you need serious help to drive them away.
Cockroaches
Not only are they disgusting. The cockroaches also spread disease and provoke further disorder, consuming food remains and leaving recognizable smell and stains. If you can live with the cockroaches, think about your neighbors when they learn the truth. So you better take measures as soon as you see at least one.
Spiders
While most spider species are not dangerous to humans, it’s not the case in Texas. Black widows and brown recluses are two of America’s most venomous species. Well, even if the spiders that make their webs in your house are not that scary, they’re still better elsewhere. Luckily, local companies know how to deal with them.
Bed bugs
These are as common in San Antonio as elsewhere, and sleeping in a bugged bedroom is just as risky. Known as disease spreaders, they are easy to bring in and hard to get rid of. This riddance will cost you more than most other bugs, but leaving them alone (that is, leaving yourself at their will) will result in more significant losses.
Stinging insects
In San Antonio, the most common and dangerous are yellow jackets. Yet there are also bees, hornets, mud daubers, and even scorpions. The latter include the bark scorpion, the most dangerous species in the U.S., with a more potent venom than the others. Unlike roaches, these are the ones to keep away from unless you know what to do. Or call someone who for sure knows.
Other insects
Naming all the other insects that can dwell in your property would make a long list. From an exotic pet cockroach that has escaped from someone’s house to rare species of ants, there are many of them. Given how many insect species are around, it’s no wonder.
Rodents
These are ubiquitous, and though some of them are nice to see, it can’t be said about mice and rats that damage your property, steal your food, and are just disgusting. Other rodents you can unexpectedly meet in San Antonio are squirrels and voles.
Other wildlife
Many animals make themselves comfortable in an urban environment, like raccoons, skunks, opossums, etc. You need experienced and licensed specialists to remove them, partly because environmental laws may protect these species.
If any of these creatures have found their home at your property, it’s not the situation to put up with. Call the pros.
San Antonio Pest Control Prices
They say everything is bigger in Texas. What about San Antonio pest control prices? Well, they don’t differ that much from, say, those of California. Regular one-time treatment will cost you an average of $154, and follow-ups are about half that price. As for monitoring, a weekly visit will be about $35-40. If you opt for less frequent visits, a quarterly visit may be about $130. More expensive are bed bugs ($290-670) and termites ($500-2,500).
Yearly plans are also offered (though large companies that insist on these are less prominent here). Monthly ones are here, too, being about $50-70/month in most situations. Yet again, it depends on variables like pest types, property size and location, its type (house, condo, or apartment), and so on.
How to Find the Best Exterminators in San Antonio, CA
While we have provided some San Antonio pest control reviews, you may want to dig a little deeper and do your own research. If you do, here is what to pay attention to:
Reviews from those you know in person. It may be your neighbors (their experience is the most relevant purely because of the location), relatives, or friends. They may update you not only about the best exterminators in San Antonio but also about particular specialists you would want to work with.
Reviews on dedicated websites, from Yelp and Nextdoor to Google Maps. You may need to filter them, though, because some of them may be not real, and others may relate to issues the company once experienced but has overgrown. The rating, in the meanwhile, is still affected by these. So check the date as well as the text.
Conversations with managers and specialists. You can ask them your questions and receive firsthand information, for example, about pricing and schedules. A talk does not oblige you to hire the company; they just give you information.
Here are also other differences that can affect the efficiency of their work.
Location
Is the office of the company located nearby? Not only is it more comfortable. It means the costs of transportation will be smaller. In addition, the specialists will have more experience with pests typical for your area.
Pests they’re working with
As for pests, each of them requires a special approach. Getting rid of rodents is very different from exterminating wasps or cockroaches; it requires different baits, methods, time, and sometimes the difference can even include physical damage to walls.
Pricing
It’s a seductive idea to choose the cheapest plan of those offered by various companies. But you also need to consider the baits they use, the processing intensity, potential follow-ups, and stuff like eco-friendliness. If your property is located dangerously and exposed to various pests constantly, a yearly plan may be a better solution.
Years of experience
It looks like the companies that have been around for longer have a better expertise. On the other hand, new startups are often founded by specialists that spent years or decades just in those old companies. They are easier to manage, use any advantage they can to win the competition, and less often struggle with issues that arise with scale.
Brand awareness
As the company becomes bigger, does it become more recommended? Yes, but more criticized at the same time. It means that famous companies should care more about supporting their brand. At the same time, smaller and younger ones can offer lower prices and better quality in an attempt to build this sort of reputation from scratch.
FAQ
We know that these San Antonio pest control reviews still leave some questions without answers. Here are some of those asked the most often.
How often should pest control be done in San Antonio?
The climate in San Antonio is very attractive to pests. So the measures should be taken at least once a quarter if you haven’t seen an infestation or more often (monthly or even weekly) after an infestation took place. Your specialist can tell it more precisely, depending on your infestation’s type and your property’s peculiarities.
Who is responsible for pest control in a rental property in San Antonio?
Texas laws assume that it’s the landlord’s responsibility. But the tenants should update the landlord as soon as they spot a pest, generally in up to 5 working days. Otherwise, they may share the responsibility as they didn’t complete theirs.
What is the average cost of a pest control visit in San Antonio?
When it comes to single treatments, San Antonio exterminators may charge about $150-160, with follow-ups being cheaper, about $75-80. Weekly visits (if you choose this frequency of monitoring) can be about $35-40, trimonthly – about $130. Again, these prices are very approximate and may change according to various conditions.
If you have been under attack by pests in Phoenix, you’ll need some help from professionals. But how can you choose the best pest control companies in Phoenix, AZ? The best way is to glance at all those offering their services in the area and choose whose offer seems the best to you. Big and small companies, upstart young ones, and established household names – which to choose?
The best way is to consider your actual needs and read reviews on how they do their work. That’s what we do here: choose the five best Phoenix, AZ exterminators to help you make your choice. The rest is up to your preferences and feelings.
5 Best Pest Control Companies in Phoenix
Exterminating termites, rats, roaches, and other unwanted neighbors is not just a serious job; you need a responsible approach to ensure they won’t return. That’s why you want to make the right choice right now, to avoid dealing with incompetency that may result in the return of the pests. If you’re living in Phoenix, you don’t have to put up with everything around you rising from the ashes, including the pests you’re trying to get rid of.
There are many companies that specialize in pest control, so we chose the five we’d recommend to you the most. Some of them are already famous, but others have many satisfied customers too, and while prices vary, any of them may be the best in your case.
Address: 8055 N 24th Ave Ste I-J Phoenix, AZ 85021
Phone: (602) 883-3740
BBB Rating: A+
Orkin is one of the most famous nationwide pest control services. It was established in 1901 by Otto Orkin, a son of grocery store owners who had him extinguish rats when he was just 14, and so is around for over a century.
To improve its techniques, Orkin has been conducting various research with the best scientists for decades and even has its own insect zoo. Now it’s a subsidiary of Rollins, Inc., but it still operates under its own name.
The company is well-known for its efficiency in various forms of pest control. Orkin has built a strong reputation as one of the largest nationwide pest control operators. It deals with almost any type of pests in Arizona: roaches, ants, termites, roaches, bed bugs, crickets, earwigs – whatever. It even has means for dealing with scorpions and centipedes, especially notorious in Arizona.
It usually takes minutes for the company to call back. A red diamond truck usually arrives the next day unless you want to postpone the visit. After the assessment stage, the treatment begins, using the methods the specialists find the best for your property. After that, the company develops the optimal monitoring plan, the duration of which is also individual.
As for prices, Orkin does not disclose this information directly, encouraging customers to develop a customized plan instead. Usually, its plans are about $45-55/month, while termites and bed bugs are more expensive to treat. A termite treatment can cost up to $5,000, while a bed bug extermination session is about $500-1500.
It’s logical that a company named Western Exterminator has successfully operated in Arizona for decades. It was established in 1921 and remains one of the most famous American pest control companies (now a part of the Rentokil family). Along with standard plans covering various types of the most common pests, it has special offers regarding some less common types, for which it also has the necessary expertise.
The company has plans for various types of pests you can encounter in Phoenix. Those for residential and commercial services differ, and the company explains why on its website. Instead of publishing prices, the company explains in detail why they are individual. The factors it lists include:
The type of pest.
The level of infestation.
The treatment process.
The number of treatments necessary.
The property size.
Given this, you may expect that the estimation is done after the quote you can request. Usually, it does happen like this. The usual costs are generally higher than the average, so prepare for it if you decide to call the company.
And don’t confuse it with Western Pest Services: these are two different companies. Also, make sure you’re serviced by the core Western Exterminator company: those acquired by it are too often criticized. You can read on the website the reviews and choose which specialists you’d like to work with, as reviewers emphasize their names. Don’t neglect this possibility if you want quality service.
Address: 301 W. Deer Valley Rd. Suite 3 Phoenix, AZ 85027
Phone: (623) 434-8586
BBB Rating: A+
Arrow doesn’t sound like the deadliest weapon for those small critters, but the company has decades of success in the industry. Established in 1964, it remains one of the rare independent pest control companies on a national scale not acquired by groups like Rollins or Rentokil. Yet it offers both residential and commercial pest removal services.
Do you know what pest troubles your property? Then you may just call the specialist, and they will arrive the next day. Or you can opt for an inspection even before you notice anything suspicious; this may eventually be the cheaper solution. The guarantee it offers goes far beyond the standard termite guarantee, also covering issues with other common wood-eating pests.
The company is competent in treating specific pests of Arizona, like spiders and scorpions. The employees are experienced with local troubles and know how to handle them. Of disadvantages, we must notice that some time ago there were complaints about managers’ bad manners, but this problem seems to be solved already.
As for pricing, it depends (as usual). The initial treatment usually costs about $135 or more, with follow-ups at about $75. Termites are more expensive ($800-1,800), bed bugs even more so ($500-2,800). As usual, again. It also depends on the size of your property.
Last but not least: Arrow does much more than just pest control. Its offers include lawn treatment, moisture control, and even handyman services. There are other services it can provide, though the costs may be calculated differently.
4. Merrill Pest Solutions: The Best Residential Service
Like many small businesses in prominent industries, Merrill Pest Solutions was founded in 2015 by an expert Nick Merrill. The latter had been working in larger companies and learned the techniques and the flaws of their performance. On a much smaller level, the founder was able to avoid many mistakes by big businesses while operating on a smaller scale. It resulted in establishing this family-owned pest control company.
Not only does it deal with mice, termites, ants, or roaches. It also takes on creatures specific for Arizona with its desert terrain, like scorpions, or those that technically aren’t pests, like pigeons and other birds.
Merrill offers the luxury of explaining how its protection works, including a figure where one can see protection barriers, measures taken at entry points for various types of pests, and procedures designed for gardens and courtyards. It uses eco-friendly methods, and the professionals working for Merrill are certified.
Even if you haven’t encountered any pests yet but are concerned about them, you may contact Merrill for pest-proofing or preventative services. It will be a good investment for preventing more significant expenses later on. In addition, it doesn’t insist on yearly plans, doing the best with single treatments. The site of the company does not offer any explicit information about pricing. Instead, you’re prompted to make a call, explain your problem, and get your personal plan for the sort of problem you’re experiencing. It is not the cheapest service around as it doesn’t have generic plans, but the overall pricing is quite reasonable. It makes Merrill quite an example of affordable pest control in Phoenix, AZ.
Address: 2338 W. Royal Palm Rd. Suite G, Phoenix, AZ 85021
Phone: 602-942-BUGS (2847)
BBB Rating: A+
Though its name may sound like an Asylum take on Terminix, it’s nothing like a cheap rip-off. The company has operated in Arizona since 1981 and established its reputation in residential and commercial service. It implies a wide array of plans and a service that covers many more potential problems that may appear.
Not only does Eliminex deal with your usual pests like roaches, mosquitos, ants, or normal rodents. It also can help if your problem is more exotic, like gophers, pigeons, scorpions, or other wildlife. To address these issues in their complexity, Eliminex offers two plans for both residential and commercial services.
Basic Service includes handling cockroaches, ants, spiders, crickets, centipedes, scorpions, and other “common” pests. Strangely, other common pests, like bed bugs, mosquitoes, and termites, fall under the “Specialty Service.” This service is higher in price, but everything is bargainable.
Instead of publishing fixed prices on its website, Eliminex offers a detailed contact form with everything: your location, name, phone number, preferred time to call you back, and nearly everything you need to tell (except for the type of pest, strangely). Anyway, the quote request will be handled by a manager, and when a specialist is assigned, they will see everything right on the location.
Eliminex operates quite well, and though it’s a relatively small business (its Facebook page only has 76 subscribers), it makes its customers satisfied. The BBB rating corroborates this. And by the way: it also offers weed control (not the one you think, which has been legal in AZ since January 2021).
Common Pests in Phoenix, AZ
What are the most common pests in Phoenix? The list will mainly consist of species found throughout the U.S. But Arizona’s climate and location will result in some quite unpleasant guests. Don’t worry, as Phoenix bug removal specialists have much experience with these, too.
Mosquitoes
These ubiquitous vampires prefer more humid areas, but as the name Arizona is not derived from the “arid zone,” they’re still here.
Roaches
Some people even say they want to see whether they survive after a nuclear bombardment. Luckily, pest control companies in Phoenix, AZ, prefer less destructive ways of treating these pests.
Bed bugs
Arguably they are the most annoying of all pests because they spoil our sleep. They should be treated as soon as detected.
Scorpions
Scorpions? We only like them in movies or maybe as a German rock band. In Arizona, you can also be lucky enough to encounter bark scorpions, the most dangerous species in the U.S.
Stingers
Bees, wasps, hornets, etc. Though we seem to have got used to their omnipresence, their stings may be lethal at the wrong spot or for an allergic person, and even if you survive it, there’s nothing good in it anyway. So, unless you are a professional beekeeper, consider them pests.
Termites
If you see termites on your property, you’re in danger. They are an inherent danger, so better get them off your land before they settle.
Ants
Though these are considered helpful for the ecosystem, your house is not for them. So see them as regular pests and take measures to eliminate them.
Spiders
Not that they are dangerous by themselves, but spiderwebs in your house may be a very unpleasant experience. Don’t you want to cut through them like in an adventure movie?
Other insects
In Arizona, the list above is not definitive. There are other insects as well which make trouble: crickets, beetles, flies, fleas, and so on. The good news is that you can drive them out of your property with a bit of help from professionals.
Rodents
Along with your familiar mice and rats, there are gophers and ground squirrels in Arizona. And they can cause just as much trouble. You can chase away a single one, but if there’s a colony, you need help.
Various wildlife
In Arizona, there are constant issues with birds, especially pigeons, but also swallows and grackles. They are too common to enjoy their view and sound; under your roof, they can be a calamity. And there’s no need to remind of skunks, raccoons, bats, or voles. And if you encounter some of these, you’re lucky it wasn’t a rattlesnake, as Arizona has as many as 13 subspecies of these. Have you been suffering from any of these? If so, you need to call pest control.
Phoenix Pest Control Prices
The most typical pricing can be seen in the Arrow Exterminators section. Prepare to pay about $150 for the first treatment after your free quote. Follow-ups are about $75, at most $100, unless the infestation is too severe. But in your particular case, it may differ because there are too many variables: the size of your property, the address, the schedule, and the type of pests.
For condos or apartments, the price is logically lower than for houses. It’s the same in Arizona as elsewhere. The best exterminators in Phoenix, AZ, will first provide you with a free quote to estimate the necessary work, and only then will give you the calculation.
How to Find the Best Exterminators in Phoenix, AZ
If you want to find the best Phoenix, AZ pest control prices and high responsibility level, we recommend you consider the following:
Reviews by those you know. Your relatives, friends, or neighbors may have their own experience of handling pest infestations. Their recommendations are among the most valuable sources of information.
Online reviews. It’s sometimes hard to tell real Phoenix, AZ pest control reviews from fakes by themselves or competitors. In addition, these may relate to issues the company has long overcome (so mind the date). If you have decided on a particular company, the reviews may help you find the best specialist within it.
Contacts with companies. Give each one some time, and speak on the phone with a manager. They will update you on prices, terms, and other specifics. Having called a company doesn’t oblige you to use its services; you only do it for the information.
Location
Not all companies are equally suited to work with you just because of their location. If it has to make a long way to you, it may be reasonable to find something nearer. In addition, there may be specific pests even in smaller regions.
Pests they’re working with
Each pest requires special handling. Not all specialists are ready to work equally well with rodents, insects, or birds. You need to specify the type of your property infestation and find the company ready to handle it.
Pricing
It’s better to have it on the table, but, again, there are too many variables to tell it without getting familiar with the case. The free quote is not only useful to you: the company also uses it to adjust its estimations. So, again, you better contact various companies that will make different offers in terms of both handling and pricing.
Years of experience
Usually, the longer the company has been around, the better use of its experience it makes. But it doesn’t always work this way. Even new businesses may rely on the experience their founders got while working for a major company or as an independent contractor. So, it also matters how long the people you hire have been in the business, even under other brands.
Brand awareness
And still, as a rule, the better reputation a company has, the greater is the chance it’s justified. Some smaller businesses can compete with prices or rare services, but usually, popular exterminators have done a thing or two to gain that recognition.
FAQ
Of course, you have some unanswered questions after reading this. So let’s address them directly.
How often should pest control be done in Phoenix, AZ?
The specialist will say it. It depends on the infestation level, on your property size, your lifestyle (one long leave or several short ones), and so on. You better raise the question of follow-ups even if the manager somehow skips it.
Who is responsible for pest control in a rental property in Phoenix?
Usually, it’s the landlord unless there’s proof the tenant’s actions have provoked the infestation. Like in most regions, it’s the tenant’s responsibility to notify the landlord, and then the landlord’s one to solve the problem.
What is the average cost of a pest control visit in Philadelphia?
The first treatment starts at $150, and monthly follow-ups are about $75-100. But it depends on many parameters, so you should discuss it with the company. And don’t be too shy to bargain!
Being the most popular and populous city in the state, New York City experiences problems with rodents and a wide range of pests. The vast majority of citizens live in several store buildings, which means they have to share the same pest problems as their neighbors.
Pest Control Companies in New York City We Reviewed
Once the rodents or cockroaches appear in one apartment, the menace will quickly spread around the building or the whole block. Thus, professional pest control companies in New York City are in demand. Although the market offers numerous names, here you will find the list of top NYC exterminators with detailed descriptions, addresses, and phone numbers.
5 Best Pest Control Companies in New York City
NYC’s territory is not that small and equals 300 sq miles, but its almost 8 million 900K citizens live tightly to each other. It is considered to be the most densely populated city in the US. This lifestyle provides pest problems to New Yorkers.
Address: New York, NY 10009. East Village, Alphabet City
Phone: (877) 837-6464
BBB Rating: B
Terminix was founded back in 1927. The company always provided a wide range of pest control services and managed to become the most trustable exterminators in the US, and in NYC in particular. With its headquarter in Tennessee, it has numerous local departments that are familiar with NY pest specifics. They are considered the best exterminators in NYC.
The main departments of Terminix in New York City:
Albany, 5 Walker Way, NY 12005, open 24/7;
Staten Island, 114 McClean Ave, NY 10305, open 24/7. Major specifics – ants;
Flushing, 30-50 Whitestone Expressway Suite 303, NY 11354, open 24/7;
Armonk, 1 Labriola Ct, NY 10504, open 24/7;
Long Island, Plainview, 45 S Service Rd, NY 11803, open 24/7. Serves the entire Nassau county;
Medford, 200 13th Ave Unit 1A, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779, open 24/7. Serves the Suffolk County;
Binghamton, 27 Link Dr Suite C, NY 13904, open 24/7;
Rochester, 50 Vantage Pointe Dr. Suite 1, NY 14624, open 24/7. Offers the longest guarantee from termites;
Newburgh, 5 Jeanne Dr. Suite 2, NY 12550, open 24/7. It serves the whole Hudson Valley region, including counties Orange, Rockland, Ulster, Sullivan, and Dutchess.
The company offers services considering local specifics. Professionals are familiar with the most widespread pests in the county and event the particular street. All the branches work 24/7. They provide guarantees for their work and offer a money back if there is no result. Their main specification:
Ants;
Termites;
Bed bugs;
Biting and stinging pests;
Rodents;
Cockroaches.
The price range varies on the services that are included. They have free consultations:
The annual price varies from $550 up to $700;
The monthly prices for specific insects and pests vary. The mosquito extermination costs $60 a month.
Orkin was founded in 1901. Forbes names it the top affordable pest control in New York City. It has a high BBB rate. The main office is based in Georgia, but the company has more than 400 departments around the states and internationally. They provide services both indoors and outdoors. It has two major branches in NY, including:
Branch 317. New Hyde Park, NY, 267 609 8750, 75 Nassau Terminal Rd. This branch is for both commercial and residential services;
Branch 315. Queens, NY, 929 466 9467, 40-27 Crescent St. This branch takes only commercial orders.
Orkin works in all 5 boroughs. It covers the territory of NYC and its counties. You may call the company from Astoria, New York, South Ozone Park, Valley Stream, Queens Village, Elmhurst, Huntington Station, and Bay Shore. The company works with all the pests that can be found in the area and the exotic cases. Their usual targets are:
Mice and rats,
Termites,
Ants,
Cockroaches,
Mosquitoes,
Wasps and hornets.
There are different plans that cost differently. The price also differs depending on the state you live in. Yet, you may consider that the average annual plan costs $570. If you have a severe infestation, you may pay more.
If you live in a state with a high level of pest infestation annually, the cost will rise as well. You can pay for the fast extermination. For example, you can choose a plan that covers only termites. The prices must be discussed after you receive a free home inspection from the pest control company.
Address: 175 Walnut Ave, Suites 207 and 209, NY 10454
Phone: 866 840 5578
BBB Rating: A
Rentokil is not exactly a US-based company. It has British roots. Yet, once it came to the US more than 90 years ago, it quickly became a favorite around the states. You may already be familiar with its departments like Presto-X, Ehrlich, Anderson Pest Solutions, and Western Exterminator. Its main office is located in Pennsylvania. Ehrlich covers all the areas of NYC and Long Island. The company offers eco-friendly measures against pests.
It works in the next areas:
Astoria,
Bronx,
Brooklyn,
Long Island,
Corona,
Massapequa,
Manhattan,
NYC,
East Elmhurst and Elmhurst,
Queens and Queens Village,
Far Rockaway,
Ridgewood,
State Island,
Forest Hill,
Flushing,
Valley Stream,
Huntington Station,
Woodside.
The company considers regional specifics, including the hotspots. The neighbors of the subway usually suffer from rats and mice infestations. Buildings that stand too close can be infested by bugs too quickly. If one building in NYC has bed bugs or cockroaches without immediate treatment, these bugs will travel to another building. According to NYC pest control reviews, this company is one of the most eco-friendly and nature-oriented in the region. Its main specifics also include:
Bird control;
Bed bug control;
Rodent control.
They also provide commercial services, including heat treatments for the office and multi-family housing treatments. You can call them for the disinfection as well. It is always better to prevent pests than to risk losing your customers who can notice cockroaches on the floor.
The price is moderate. They depend on the plan you choose. The average price for 2 000 sq ft area is from $600 up to $1200 annually. The price changes based on the level of infestation and the area you live in. You can order additional services too.
4. Pestrol Inc
Website: https://www.pestrol.com/
Address: 31 W 34TH St Ste 8079 New York, NY, 10001-3009
Phone: 855 602 1365
BBB Rating: A+
The company is not that old. It was founded in 2001. It is NY native and works with all NYC boroughs and the NY counties. When it comes to the comparison of NYC pest control prices, Pestrol has the cheapest option affordable for everyone. They also offer 24/7 support and you can call them even during the night in case you are getting bothered by the mouse. It hires professional entomologists and exterminators with many years of experience.
You may find their departments in the next areas:
Orange County, 197 Monhagen Ave, Middletown NY 10940, phone 845 381 1061;
Rockland County, 99 Main Street, Nyack, NY 10960, phone 845 360 6410;
New York City, 31 West 34th Street, 8th Floor, New York City, NY 10001, phone 212 304 5116. The office does not work 24/7, unlike the emergency support team. Their hours are from Monday to Friday, 9 AM up to 5 PM. They also work on Saturday from 9 AM to 2 PM. The company’s office is closed on Sunday. Meanwhile, you can always call the hotline.
The company offers free inspection and numerous discounts. The average prices for their services starting from:
$35 for a month for a Basic package that covers rodents, ants, wasps, bees, and cockroaches;
$49 per month is a Plus package that also includes the extra visits, and family-friendly measures, and termites;
$69 per month in a Premium package that also includes termites, rodents, common pests, and a mosquito-free backyard.
Kingsway was founded more than 100 years ago. It has been serving NYC and Long Island for over 40 years. The area of service includes 5 boroughs and the neighborhoods. It provides its exterminating services for commercial and residential use.
The company does not take money for the inspection. It works every day except Sunday from 7 AM to 6 PM. On Saturday it works from 7 AM to 5 PM. You can also contact the emergency line. If you need an inspection you can call 800 926 9421. The office numbers are 212 509 2550 and 718 859 8448. The company quickly gets to the areas of:
NYC Manhattan;
Brooklyn;
The Bronx.
They exterminate or get rid of the following pests:
Ants;
Stinging insects like hornets, bees, and wasps;
Bugs like mites, ticks, fleas, bedbugs, and lice. The company has certificates from the best bed bug experts in the area;
Rodents like mice and rats;
Silverfish;
Waterbugs and roaches;
Spiders;
Termites;
Birds, raccoons, and squirrels.
The company offers to inspect your house for free. You will receive the step-by-step plan with the prices. They offer environmentally friendly options in the first place. You may choose the one that will be the most effective or the quickest. They have commercial services, including office and property management, facility management of the company, and demolition contractors’ management. There is a discount for seniors. It cuts 10 percent of the whole price.
Common Pests in New York City
Your choice of pest control company has to depend on the specific pest you are dealing with. If you need New York City bug removal service, you may want to call Kingsway Exterminating Co, since they have certificates in bugs. If you are attacked by termites, you can try Terminix or Orkin, since they have specific plans for that. Ehrlich is famous for extraordinary cases like squirrels or birds. Here are the most popular pests in NYC.
Ants
Ants are hardworking little insects that you definitely don’t need in your house. They can bite through the food packages and damage the wood. Yet, they are one of the most common types of bugs in the US. The most common species:
Carpenter ants that like to dig into the wood;
Pavement ants;
Pharaoh ants;
Odorous house ants.
As you may have noticed from the names, some of them provide a specific odor when they are killed. Ants can bite and crawl on your feet. You have to make sure you don’t attract them to your house.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs usually appear during the summer. Families return from vacation, bringing new dwellers with them. Bed bugs can travel in cars, clothes, and even school bags. They are brown, small, and quick. They crawl on your bed and inside your wardrobes.
The worst part about bed bugs is that they bite. They feed on your blood. Apart from that, they may also spread dangerous diseases through the bite.
Spiders
Spiders are common insects in our houses. Yet, when their population gets too big, you can’t deal with them on your own. The most popular species:
American house spiders. You can even meet the Black Widow, which is not as harmless as other members of the family;
Yellow sac spiders. They are poisonous and they bite;
Sheet web weavers;
Nursery web spiders;
Wolf spiders can bite if feel danger;
Grass spiders that can bite.
Termites
Termites are usually confused with ants. They are not similar, though, while both can ruin your wooden walls and furniture. Unlike ants, termites really feed on wood. They cause incredible damage to the house structure.
Fleas
Fleas are usually transported on pets. They can even lay eggs in the fur. Biting through the animal’s skin, they can transmit tapeworms. Fleas move by jumping and, in rare cases, can target people.
Cockroaches
Cockroaches crawl from one house to another, infesting everything on their way. They are known for their ability to spread viruses in no time. The first place they go will be the kitchen. They are looking for a source of food and water. Cockroaches can’t stand winter, so you will see them when the cold weather comes. The most popular species in NYC:
American cockroaches are 2 inches long and colored brown. They have wings;
German cockroaches are small and usually black. They can’t fly but move incredibly fast.
Roaches will bring diseases and mess. Their population increases fast, and you will have to call professionals to get rid of them. If you live in an apartment, it is possible you receive them from neighbors and they also have to call pest control.
Stinging Insects
There are numerous stinging insects you may find in New York City. Not all of them will fly to your house. The most popular species are:
Bees;
Paper wasps.
While bees are the source of honey you may like, they can also be the real problem in the house. Apart from the painful bites they may cause allergies. You have to get rid of them immediately.
Pigeons
Pigeons are cute and you may like to feed them in the park. Yet, they prefer to search for a safe place before the cold. New Yorkers usually call pigeons the flying rats, meaning that they can carry diseases as well as rats.
Pigeons may block up the gutters on the roof. Apart from that, they can damage your car, if it is their target. They can also carry fleas and ticks on their wings.
Rodents
Rodents are a common problem the whole year-round. They infest houses mainly during the autumn when they seek a hiding place before winter colds. The most popular species in NYC are:
Norway rat,
House mouse.
House mice are small, usually 2 inches long-only, and weighs just 0.5 ounces. Norway rats are big and can weigh 11 ounces. You can quickly recognize them by their size and pink tail. Rodents inside your house are extremely dangerous since they can chew your furniture, as well as spread diseases.
New York City Pest Control Prices
Prices on pest control in New York City vary depending on the level of infestation, location, and specifics of the pest. Usually, the first consultation is free of charge. You can also choose different plans. Here are the average prices:
A one-time treatment may cause up to $152;
Weekly consultations cost $37;
A yearly plan costs $550-600 on average. A yearly plan saves your budget since you don’t have to make extra calls whenever you need an inspection. It can cover a wide range of pests as well.
How to Find the Best Exterminators in NYC
If you want to get rid of pests you have to make sure that you hire professionals. There are numerous pages online with reviews on different companies. You may start there. Before you hire anyone make sure they match your criteria.
Positive reviews
Find out their rates online. If their customers evaluate them highly, you can try their services. Usually, people share honest reviews on services like Yelp.
Guarantees
Check out the guarantees that companies provide. The best guarantee is that you’ll be 100 percent free of pests. If the company does not get you rid of pests, it returns the money. There may be second visits offered free of charge.
Technologies
Find out which technologies the company uses. If they have eco-friendly methods, you may ask for them. There is always a price list so you can check out all your possibilities.
Affordable price
Check out for the best prices in your regions. Find out whether they are equal to the provided services. Make sure all the prices are discussed with the company, and they don’t expect anything else.
FAQ
Read the most popular questions on pest control in New York. Find out specific of this area.
How often should pest control be done in NYC?
Since you live in an overcrowded city, you have to take care of your house often. For the private homes and apartments, it is recommended to provide treatment and pest prevention every quarter. A serious infestation check may take place once in a half year.
Who is responsible for pest control in a rental property in NYC?
Usually, all the responsibility is on the landlord. Yet, if you rent a house or apartment and you notice a problem, you have to inform the landlord. Some landlords prefer to stay away from the problem and let the renter deal with it.
What is the average cost of a pest control visit in NYC?
The average cost is $150 per session. It means that there was no severe infestation, and it is enough for this specific case. You may ask pest control companies to provide more sessions and preventive measures.
If you want it to act faster, you may use higher concentration. But usually, there’s no need to.
