Seeing cockroaches in your home is never pleasant, especially since the resilient insects carry pathogens that transmit diseases like E. coli and salmonella. They hide throughout homes during the day in often overlooked tight spaces. Help your roach control efforts by learning about the most common areas of the home the critters frequent and taking steps to make them inhospitable.

4 Places Roaches Tend to Frequent

1. Under Kitchen Appliances & In Cabinets

Food and water supplies make kitchens a favorite roach location, particularly since there are so many hiding places. The insects often hide under refrigerators and stoves as well as smaller appliances like toasters, microwaves, and coffeemakers. They also like dark kitchen cabinets, especially those that store food. Keep your kitchen as clean as possible to promote roach control—wipe up all crumbs and never leave food out. Also, keep your kitchen trash can closed.

2. Bathroom Cabinets, Drawers, & Shower Stalls

Roaches gravitate toward moisture and therefore congregate in bathrooms. They hide in cabinets and drawers, around and under shower stalls and tubs, and even in laundry hampers. Bathrooms also provide food sources like soap scum, toothpaste, shampoo, and lotion, so seal toiletry items. Because leaky bathrooms are particularly susceptible to roach infestations, fix all leaks, such as those under your sink and in your shower. Use the ventilation system to dry the room out as well.

3. Under Water Heaters & Washing Machines

The dark, damp spaces under and around water-based appliances such as washing machines, water heaters, window air conditioners, and humidifiers offer ideal hiding spots for roaches. Check these appliances often and place roach “hotels” around them to trap the creatures.

4. Upholstered Furniture

Roaches can settle among couch and upholstered chair cushions that so often feature food crumb accumulations. They also use these cushioned areas to lay eggs. Vacuum your upholstered furniture regularly using the brush attachment to remove food particles and roach eggs. Clean any drink spills immediately to further discourage the pests.

Don’t let these insects take over your home—work with the exterminators at Hilo Termite & Pest Control. The residential and commercial pest control company serving the Big Island offers more than 40 years of industry experience and specializes in roach control. Call (808) 935-8301 today to schedule an inspection, or visit the team online for more about their environmentally friendly roach control services.