Combating Cockroaches in NYC Apartment

Help! I think that I have cockroaches! Is there a way to get rid of them naturally?

It’s a harsh truth of city life. Once you see one cockroach, you probably have many more that you haven’t seen. A prolific spreader of disease, getting rid of cockroaches is difficult but essential to safe and happy living in New York City. If you maintain a green home, there are ways to get rid of the beasties, but you will have to be vigilant.

Understand the cockroach’s habits and habitats.

1. The cockroach can live for days and even weeks without any food, but they need water every day in order to survive. Make sure that you have sealed any leaks and that the water in the taps is always off. Make it a habit to dry out sinks and put the plug in when not in use.

2. Cockroaches live in dark and damp places. Under sinks, in cabinets, and under radiators are favorites, but if you leave clothing or towels on the floor you may provide them with a quick “vacation” spot.

3. Cockroaches are nocturnal and will shun light. They also travel the same paths in search of food and water.

4. Cockroaches are drawn to the feces of other cockroaches. Make sure that you clean under the cabinets and sinks and anywhere where you have previously seen the roaches.

The most effective way of killing roaches naturally is by poison. Despite the fact that we consider cockroaches dirty, they are actually fastidious groomers. This is their downfall. By making a natural poison, and sprinkling it under cabinets and sinks and along the paths where you have seen roaches, the insects pick up the poison and ingest it when they clean themselves in their lair.

1. Mix equal parts powdered sugar and baking soda and place on a napkin, paper plate, or shallow dish. The sugar attacks the roaches and the baking soda kills them.

2. Boric acid is another natural killer. Sprinkle the acid in the usual stomping grounds of the roaches. Be careful though, boric acid is poisonous to pets and people too.

3. If you do have children, use bay leaves as a roach deterrent. Cockroaches hate bay leaves and will avoid areas where they are placed.

The best way to avoid cockroaches if you haven’t got them is to keep your place clean, keep food in airtight containers, and keep clothing off of the floor.

originally posted September 2, 2006