Pest Library
Cockroaches
Nobody wants to see a cockroach, and seeing one in daylight often means there are a lot more you're not seeing. Here's what to know about the three cockroaches we run into most.
On this page: German cockroach · American cockroach · Oriental cockroach
Need help now? See our general pest control service.
Where cockroaches hide, and why sprays don't fix it
Cockroaches hide in tight, warm, damp spots: behind and under the fridge and stove, under sinks, inside cabinet hinges, around the water heater, and in floor drains and basements. They come out mostly at night.
Cockroaches spread bacteria from drains and trash onto counters and food, and their droppings and shed skins are a well-known trigger for allergies and asthma, especially in kids.
Store-bought sprays and foggers only kill the cockroaches they touch. They miss the eggs, which are protected in a hard case, and they can push cockroaches deeper into walls and spread them to new rooms. Lasting control takes finding where they live, using baits and growth regulators that stop the next generation, and fixing what's attracting them.
German cockroach
Quick ID
- About 1/2 to 5/8 inch
- Light brown with two dark stripes running down behind the head
- Look-alike: young American cockroaches, which are reddish brown without the stripes
Signs of a problem
- Cockroaches in the kitchen or bathroom, especially at night
- Pepper-like droppings in cabinet corners, drawers and hinges
- A musty, oily smell when the problem grows
How Pestworx handles it
We inspect to find where they're living, then use gel baits, insect growth regulators and targeted crack-and-crevice treatment, with follow-up visits until they're gone.
Prevention tips
- Don't leave dishes or food out overnight
- Fix dripping faucets and leaks under sinks
- Check grocery bags, boxes and used appliances before bringing them in
American cockroach
Quick ID
- Large: about 1 1/2 to 2 inches
- Reddish brown with a yellowish band around the area behind the head
- Adults have wings and can glide short distances
Signs of a problem
- Big cockroaches in basements, laundry rooms and around floor drains
- Cockroaches coming up from sewer lines or drains
- Larger droppings in dark, damp areas
How Pestworx handles it
We treat basements, drains and the outside perimeter, and point out moisture problems and entry points that let them in.
Prevention tips
- Keep floor drains covered or filled with water
- Run a dehumidifier in damp basements
- Seal gaps around pipes and basement doors
Oriental cockroach
Quick ID
- About 1 inch
- Shiny dark brown to black
- Slow-moving and can't fly. Females have only small wing pads
Signs of a problem
- Cockroaches in basements, crawlspaces and around drains, often in spring and early summer
- Cockroaches near mulch, leaf piles and outdoor drains
- A strong, musty smell
How Pestworx handles it
We treat damp areas inside and the foundation outside, and help cut down on the moisture they need to survive.
Prevention tips
- Fix leaks and improve basement drainage
- Pull mulch and leaf piles back from the foundation
- Weatherstrip doors and seal foundation gaps
Seeing cockroaches? Get a free inspection
Call (888) 511-9460 or request a quote online and we will find out what you are dealing with. New customers get $50 off their first service with a 12-month plan.
We serve homes and businesses in Camden, Burlington, Mercer and Gloucester counties in New Jersey, and Bucks and Montgomery counties in Pennsylvania.
New customer offer
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$50 off your initial service for new customers who sign up for a 12-month service plan.
New residential and commercial customers only. Requires a 12-month service agreement. Can't be combined with other offers. Mention this offer when you call or request a quote.More from the Pest Library
