How to Get Rid of American Cockroaches

Confirm you have American cockroaches

Correct identification matters, because the right fix for American cockroaches differs from the fix for their lookalikes. Adults measure 35–53 mm (up to about 2.1 in) and are usually red and brown. Look for these features:

• Large reddish-brown body up to two inches long
• Pale yellowish band around the shield behind the head
• Fully developed wings covering the abdomen

They are most often confused with smokybrown cockroach, Oriental cockroach and German cockroach. See the full American cockroach profile for side-by-side details.

Why you have American cockroaches

American Cockroaches come indoors looking for food, water, warmth or shelter. Gaps around doors, windows, pipes and utility lines give them easy ways in. Clutter, leaks and food left out let a small problem grow into an infestation. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter, so expect to see more of them then.

When you'll see American cockroaches

American Cockroaches are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.

Typical places to check: basement or garage, bathroom and kitchen.

Step-by-step: getting rid of American cockroaches

Step 1: Seal floor drains

Seal floor drains, pipe gaps and sewer entry points. Repeat this for at least two to three weeks, since eggs and hidden insects keep appearing for a while.

Step 2: Reduce moisture in basements

Reduce moisture in basements and crawl spaces. Keep notes on where you still see activity so you can focus your effort.

Step 3: Use gel bait

Use gel bait and bait stations in hidden areas. This is the step most people skip, and it is the one that makes the biggest difference.

Natural and low-toxicity options

These methods work well alongside the steps above and keep chemical use to a minimum:

• Vacuum insects and egg cases, then empty the canister outdoors right away.
• Wipe surfaces with soapy water to remove scent trails and residue.
• Place sticky traps to find out where activity is highest.
• Run a dehumidifier where damp areas attract them.

If you do use a pesticide, choose one labeled for this pest and the place you're treating, and follow the label exactly. The label is the law.

When to call a professional

Call a licensed pest control company if you still see American cockroaches after three to four weeks of steady effort, if they are spreading to several rooms, or if you share walls with neighbors who have the same problem.

How to keep American cockroaches from coming back

• Seal cracks and gaps with caulk and install door sweeps.
• Store food in sealed containers and take out trash often.
• Fix leaky pipes and faucets and keep basements dry.
• Trim shrubs and branches so they don't touch the house.
• Keep firewood, mulch and debris away from the foundation.

Safety notes

American cockroaches can spread bacteria to food and trigger allergies and asthma.

Keep children and pets away from any traps, baits or treated areas.

About cockroaches

The American cockroach is one of the cockroaches. Cockroaches are ancient, flat-bodied insects that hide in narrow cracks during the day and forage at night. Females produce egg cases called oothecae, each holding a dozen to about 40 eggs depending on the species. Nymphs look like small, wingless adults.

Seeing a cockroach during the day can be a sign of a large population, because crowded hiding spots push some roaches out into the open.

Frequently asked questions